Snowed Inn 2008

 By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

Snowed Inn this year nearly didn’t happen. Septentrian Twelfth Night occurred in its usual time and place.  However, the Cantons of Petra Thule and Ardchreag, along with the Shire of Bastia du Lac, banded together to make the event happen at a new site in Cobourg.

The event was an intimate affair highlighted by the fundraising efforts of THL Baldric.  As some may have heard during Court at Winter War, Baldric has volunteered to be Ealdormere’s fundraising coordinator to raise funds to sponsor Sir Brand from An Tir in a race to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS).  If $5000 is raised, the SCA becomes a Gold Sponsor and our name and device will appear on jerseys, t-shirts, and other promotional material.  An Tir has pledged half of the amount, with the other kingdoms asked to donate the rest.  Two fundraisers were held.  The first was a bake sale featuring treats prepared by Baldric’s family.  The second was a chance to hit Baldric for a donation.  Many people availed themselves of the chance to whack one of the Kingdom’s best fighters without him hitting back.  Never let it be said that the Baron and Baroness of Septentria have not taken up arms in a good cause, as the photos at right clearly show.

Their Excellencies Percival and Christiana were given the opportunity to hold a Regency Court for Their Majesties in order to ensure that some backlog awards were delivered.  Septentrians Toki of Eoforwic and Sancho the Adequate received their Awards of Arms, and Lady Helena of Eoforwic received an Orion. Their Excellencies then conducted a Baronial Court, bestowing rings upon THL Baldric, Lady Brayla, and Christopher and Nicholas for their fundraising efforts. They then called forth Sir Evander and THL Melusine and presented them with Bear’s Hearts, although they currently live outside the Barony. Their Excellencies closed the court by thanking the groups that hosted the event.

Dear Mom (Snowed Inn, 2002)

Dear Mom,

I know you were wondering what on earth I was getting in to, when I mentioned the “S.C.A.” to you. My “Lachlan MacLean” brought me along to a 12th Night once for my first event - I was mesmerized by the language, the clothes and all the kindness around me - but I was told it was not typical event.

So, I will give you a description of my second (more typical) experience with this “Society for Creative Anachronism”. This event was called “Snowed Inn” and was held on February 16th, 2002 in Ajax, Ontario.

We arrived quite early to assist. Some discussions were held to finalize the set up. Chairs, tables, boxes, trays, banners put up - Everybody was organized and well prepared and knew exactly what to do.

Some girls were getting into costume (they call it Garb) and explained to me the different ways of tying the bodice. Jean-Margaret - also a “newbie” - told me about her first event, in which she was only supposed to count beans for a contest but was swept off to do all kinds of chores, and how she loved being involved.

Sashes with arrows were being handed out to those who were Archers - your grandson Daniel will love to participate in Archery - since he already loves it at his Archery club!

(Editorial note: The arrows on the sashes depict the canton’s heraldry and were given to those people that were part of the event staff.)

Wulfgang was setting up his “TROLL complaints department” ready to settle them with his pick-ax in hand. Families were arriving with babies, children and youths - all dressed for the event, where they paid their entrance fee and signed up for a dinner they call “feast”.

I thank you and Helmut for giving me those bear skins! They really came in handy, since we lent them to the Baron and Baroness to decorate the throne area - very perfect, since their emblem is the bear! The Baroness was asking me if some claws could be had, since they would make a beautiful token - I mentioned that I could always de-claw the rugs and offer some to her - but that would indeed take away from the ferocious effect of those skins!

In another corner, the tables were set up for a “Penny Auction” and an “Arts & Sciences” competition (to be judged later on in the evening). A corner with arts, crafts, games, play and storytelling was provided to entertain the children. Many tables set up with board games were attracting adults, youth and children to play.  Brian Goodheart and Ulvar - both Norse characters - were showing me games, one called Tablut - a strategic Norse board game.  I won my first token from Brian, who wanted the ladies to know they have chances with him. A gambling table with board games, dice, cards, etc. was set up by Raffe Scholemaystre, who handed out coins for all interested - any wager was a good one!

(Editor’s Note: both Brian and Raffe are members of the Games Guild of Ealdormere, which ran the games and gambling at Snowed Inn).

As the morning progressed, you could hear the noise level rise and feel the anticipation in the air. The fighters were arriving and Vlad the marshal was already inspecting the protective armor and weaponry of all kinds to make sure they were safe and suitable for combat later on.

The place was filling up and my stomach was growing - Lachlan must have known, since he came by to stuff a Timbit into my mouth. I was very happy to see the lunch counter open up, where a great lunch platter was to be had at a very reasonable price. We had a moment to sit down and eat and chat with other people, discussing knitting techniques of the period and wool qualities.

I had already learned a lot about garb, origin, period etc that morning, and there were so many ideas I wanted to remember for the next event I would go to. I took some pictures and will scan them for you to see how amazingly everybody was into the event. I was also happy that I met Freya a couple of weeks prior, who is a merchant in the Society and told me all about clothes and fabrics. I was wearing my latest outfit that day, which I had sewn from fabrics I purchased from her and was happy that I did not stick out too much - just yet - maybe when I gain confidence and courage - some day!

Then I heard a clashing! The fighting had commenced and Lachlan explained to me that Brandt das Lederwerker was being authorized in “great weapons” by a Knight, who was evaluating his ability in a practice combat. True combats were to follow later!

(Editorial Note: Brandt did indeed authorize, under the telling blows of Sir Evander, and later won a prize during the Pad d’armes Tournament for best with great weapons!)

I learned about all the different belt colors: White for Knights, Red for their Squires, Blue for the Masters and Green their Apprentices. I was also introduced to Master Hector in passing, who is a storyteller by rights! A small baby was crying in the background and being rocked to sleep in the children’s corner.

Next thing I was startled by was Lachlan’s heralding voice!  Never before had I heard it outside his gentle voice! The Penny raffle, silent auction and story time for children needed to be announced. Shortly afterwards I was taken up on my offer to help in the kitchen before feast, to assist with final preparations.

I was able to take a short break and enjoy the theater piece “12th Night” they were showing - which was not only entertainingly funny, but witty and amusing! Then back into the kitchen, tables were already being cleared to serve feast soon. Some of the volunteers for serving feast were instructed as to their tasks and I was one of them. We even had time to sit down and enjoy our meal, since everything was so well organized! It’s the first time I tried hot mulled cider and I loved it - together with a sumptuous feast Iolanda and Michaela had organized. I was stuffed! We helped clear the tables, and clean up the kitchen and put things away.

After “feast”, “Court” was held - many people were awarded for their accomplishments, honors pronounced, gifts, favors and thanks given and announcements made - then court was closed.

(Editorial Note: Congratulations to Mahault and Berend van der Eych on their AoA’s!)

This made way for the final leg of the evening: Those who had signed up for the chess tourney got together and those wanting to participate in belly dancing lessons were invited.  I was way too tired for either, still trying to take in all the experiences of the day.  It will take me a while to remember all the names of the kind people I had met.

(Editorial Note: There was also extensive boffer fighting after court. Wulfgang even fought with Baron Cynred.)

Although I was quite intimidated at first, I do thank my Lachlan for volunteering me to take up the task of writing about this event for the Society, in which I the “newbie” was to present my version of experiences of the day. It proved to be quite an eye-opening experience, encouraging me to seek out people, ask questions, get to know them and feel like I was not only a bystander in this event I was able to participate in.

So now you see mom, how much fun we are having and need not worry that I am lost to a cult - just a medieval society getting together in spare time to reenact the times as they should have been - without the Plague! All the good sides: Chivalry, kindness, courtesy, Etiquette, learning and “living” history at this event.

I am hoping to capture Daniel’s enthusiasm for this Society, since it is truly a great and safe form of family entertainment from which he will learn good values!

Love Petra

(with editorial comments by Lachlan MacLean and Colyne Stewart)

Snowed Inn V: The Fifth One (Jan 28, 2006)

By THLaird Colyne Stewart

I was shaken awake at five hours by my faithful steward William Scrimgeour. Waking me is not an easy task, and a late night working on last minute details of an event made it an even more difficult task than normal. Eventually though my fellow Scotsman managed to rouse me from slumber, and I stumbled to the privy to prepare myself for the coming day.

After washing I descended to the first floor of Drew’s End, our manor in Greenhithe territory, and began an inventory of materials that needed to be hauled to our inn in Ardchreag. I was soon joined by my lady wife, and fellow event steward, Þorfinna gráfeldr, while our guests from the Barony of Skraeling Althing slept on peacefully in one of our other rooms.

Soon, there was a knock on the door and William admitted several of our fellow Ardchreaggers: William Donovan, Snæbjörn sverðsbrjótr, Eirik Andersen and Tarian verch Gadarn. Tarian especially was well welcomed, as she came bearing drinks from the New World (called coffee, and hot chocolate).

We loaded our casks, crates and trunks into our various wains and wagons, and wended our way along the King’s Highway, getting off in Ardchreag’s county of Blackwood (known to the Mundanes as Pickering). There we found the Snowed Inn, ready and waiting for us. We began to unload our gear, and were soon joined by Wat of Sarum, and a bevy of Van der Eychs (Berend, Mahault and Adelaide). As the Van der Eychs readied the kitchen, the rest hung banners, moved tables, set up the dais and Ladies Gallery, put together a barrier, and lent their hands to many various tasks.

Soon, the hall was ready, and just in time, for by 9 o’ the clock, guests had begun to arrive.

In the back of the hall along the south wall, THL Raffe Scholemaystre, sitting under the banner of the Games Guild of Ealdormere, spread his array of medieval games, which were much used over the course of the day. Beside him, Baroness Adrielle Kerrec presided over an arts and sciences competition with an heraldic theme.

Half of the hall was given over to tables where good gentles could sit and talk, play games, or work on crafts. On the east side of this half of the hall, Sir Evander and THL Melusine de la Rose served from the bar, while on the west side a free lunch board was kept well supplied by the Van der Eychs and their kitchen staff.

The other half of the hall was given over to the noble art of the sword. Along the north wall the dais of Their Majesties of Ealdormere had been raised, from which Their Majesties Edward and Rylyn, Their Highnesses Aaron and Rustique, and Their Excellencies Corwyn and Domhnail could survey all those gathered within. Beside them, Snæbjörn once again attended the Ladies Gallery, providing them with food and drink. He also ran a fighters’ buffet, laying out bread and fruit, water and a strange orange drink.

Before the dais and the gallery was the list field. Lady Seonag nicThomais was the first to use the field that day, having organized a series of tournaments for the youth fighters of the kingdom. Many good gentles (such as Dagmar Halvdan) had donated prizes for the youth combat, and the good knights Sirs Evander, Siegfried, and Cennedi had each sponsored one of the three age groups, each making either a sword or a piece of armour as a prize. Many tournaments and melees were held, and later the following prizes were awarded: Quilliam, over all tournament winner and Best Theme in the Helm Show; Matthias, winner of the Roman Melee; Niadh, who authorized and then went on to win in the Sword and Shield Double Elimination Round Robin Tourney; Algar, Most Authentic Presentation in the Helm Show, and Morgam, Most Colourful in the helm Show.

While the youth combat was occurring, two new adult fighters authorized in sword shield. They were Emma of Greenhithe and Helena of Bastille du Lac. When the youth combat was complete, Their Majesties called the tournament herald—Magistra Nicolla de Bracton—before them to introduce to Them the fighters who would be competing in Their Tournament of Renown. The list was long, and numbered many noble and courteous gentles. The tournament was a single-sword, single-elimination tournament, to three counted blows. This ended up taking a long time to run, as double-shots did not count and had to be re-fought. My own battle for instance, against the most excellent Honourable Gann, had at least fourteen double-shots. In the end, Sir Siegfried defeated Sir Evander to win the Tournament and ensure a place in the Elite Tournament of Renown to be fought in April.

At some point during the fighting, I cannot know recall exactly when, my squire-brother Tiberius of Warwickshire was called before Their Majesties and inducted into the noble Order of Thorbjorn’s Hammer.

After this, Duke Sir Finnvarr De Taahe, the king-of-arms, selected several gentles present to represent certain Vices upon the field. The Vices, wearing baldrics displaying their vice, then selected others to represent the Virtues, who were given garters to wear. The Vices and the Virtues took opposite ends of the field, and all other fighters chose which side they wanted to join. Finnvarr pointed out that the following battles would determine who would wield the Sword of Prowess over the upcoming year. He also pointed out that three of the previous winners were present, and all of them had fallen to Vice, so a new wielder was obviously badly needed!

The Vices and the Virtues then met in challenges over the barrier, and in grand melees. Sir Nigel MacFarlane, acting as Avarice, at one point walked to the barrier with naught but a dagger. When his opponent tried to locate a dagger to meet his chosen form, Avarice would not allow it, and made him use a sword. For, as Avarice bellowed, he was greedy for glory! Sloth, in the guise of THL Etian du Naval, also had a memorable moment at the barrier when he lazily fought with a two-handed sword in only one hand.

When the fighting was done, the Ladies Gallery handed out several tokens to those who had inspired them, entertained them, or distinguished themselves. (I was awarded a token for a particularly entertaining death.) The Sword of Prowess—and a spot in the Elite Tournament of Renown—was then awarded to THL Gann. He was also given a box, handmade by members of the Canton of Ardchreag, as well as two goblets for his lady.

The hall was then readied for court. Their Excellencies Septentria awarded a Bear’s Claw to Sir Cennedi for his training of fighters at Ardchreag and Skeldergate. They also recognized Lord Eirik Andersen’s work with spontaneous illumination by giving him a Golden Bear. Septentria’s taxes for the coming year were announced, which was for each canton, household and military unit within the barony to find a relic that somehow represents their founding, and bring them to the barony’s Twelfth Night celebrations in AS XLI to form a Septentrian Museum.

Their Majesties then held Their own court. Many awards were presented, including: Dagmar Halvdan’s Award of Arms, Bjarn Stymirson’s Award of the Scarlet Banner, Ludwig von Eisengrim’s Award of the Scarlet Banner, and the elevation of THL Garwig von Wolfenschmidt to the rank of Court Baron.

After court a buffet style supper was presented, followed by an evening of games, dancing and good fellowship.

When it was all over, the weary few of us left once again loaded our wains, and brought our casks, crates and trunks back to Drew’s End for storage. It was, as always, a fulfilling day. And it was, as always, a deep refreshing sleep afterwards.

To Strive for a Sword (Snowed Inn IV, Feb 19, 2005)

By THLaird Colyne Stewart

Noble and redoubted knights, honored and gentle squires, I have come before you to advise, request and notify you on behalf of the Canton of Ardchreag of a very noble tourney and bouhort of arms that has recently been undertaken by them. These gentles have agreed together to welcome you over all others on account of the great fame of your valor, the renown of your intelligence and the praise of the virtues that have long endured in your noble persons. So, please join us, for much good may come of it.

So began the announcement, proclaiming the pas d’armes to be held at Snowed Inn IV, hosted by the Canton of Ardchreag. Once again the Company of the White Heart would ride forth and offer up a sword to the most worthy fighter of the day. A sword first won by Lord Tiberius of Warwickshire, then by THL Kasimir of Stargard, and then by Lord Etain de Neval.

The hall was large, with banners hung upon the walls, and rafters spanning high over head. To one side of the hall were arrayed many tables, where good gentles gathered and sat. Along one wall was spread an Arts and Sciences display and competition, beside which sat another table, this one laden with games for all to play, supplied by the Games Guild of Ealdormere.

The other side of the hall was given over to the tournament. A line of tables ran along one side of the list field, upon which each fighter placed their helm. On the opposite side of the lists was constructed a gallery, where the consorts of those taking part in the tournament might watch in comfort.

First, the Ladies of the Gallery did inspect the displayed helms, seeking for any belonging to a combatant they felt to be a rogue or in some other way unworthy to compete. No such recreant was discovered, and her Majesty Genevieve led the other Ladies onto the lists, where each was given a pole, upon which hung a gold or blue star. The King of Arms and his heralds called out all those who were to compete in the tournament, and those combatants then made an oath to fight in honour and with courtesy. For this was a tournament, an event of heraldry and comradeship, not a war battle. Oath made, each fighter then had to lance one of the stars with their sword to determine their team. The Ladies of course did not make this easy, juggling their poles and making the stars bounce and bob. Finally, all the stars were were lanced, and the Azure and Or teams were formed.

The Ladies were then led to the gallery, being a raised dais where they sat in comfort, fed, watered and waited upon by Snæbjörn sverðsbrjótr called Swordbreaker.

The tournament did then begin. First individual challenges were made, as fighters of the Or strode forth to the center of the lists, holding aloft their weapon of choice. When the Ladies had been satisfied, and when every combatant had fought at least once, a grand melee was held. The combatants battled until hit, at which point they returned to their end of the list and waded once again into battle. Again, this continued until the Ladies had been satisfied. After a short break a barrier was erected in the centre of the lists and the Blue team now made challenges to the Gold. After the barrier there was one more grand melee to conclude the pas.

The Ladies of the Gallery then entered the lists, and the combatants knelt about them. The Ladies then handed out several tokens to the combatants, to recognize certain deeds or talents. Count Sir Rory Cennedi was recognized for his energy and enthusiasm, Laird Colyne Stewart for his heraldic display, Edward and Argyle for being newly authorized and fighting with such eagerness in the tournament. Lord Tiberius of Warwickshire and Lord Tarquin Bjornnson were also given tokens. These were by no means the only tokens awarded, but only the ones that this chronicler can now recall. Also, the Sword, the grand prize of the tournament, was that day graced to His Excellency Ramshaven, Baron Konrad Matthias Jaegger von Dubrau, to hold for a year and a day, to be brought to Snowed Inn the following year where it would once again be sought after in the lists.

Following the pas there was a Royal Speed Tournament, as well as several individual challenges.

Court was then held, and many worthy gentles were recognized for their contributions to the kingdom. Their Excellencies of Septentria bestowed Awards of the Golden Bear upon Lord Berend and Lady Mahault van der Eych, and the Horn of Muinnin—Septentria’s preeminent award—upon Lady Christiana MacNamara and Lord Percival de Laroque. Her Majesty then called upon many for acknowledgment, including Tarian verch Gadarn, who was made a Lady, Lord Hans Thorvaldsson who was given an Award of the Scarlet Banner, and Baroness Gaerwen of Trafford, who was elevated to the Order of the Crucible. Duke Sir Finnvarr de Taahe’s knighting scroll was recognized by Her Majesty as a true relic of Ealdormere.

After court a most sumptuous feast was held, prepared by Lady Mahault and Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn. It consisted of: Squash Soup, Sautéed Mushrooms, Roast Onion Salad, Roast Chicken with Orange Sauce, Hungarian Torta, Ham with Winter Cameline Sauce, Torta Bolognese, Blancmange, Chireseye and Candied Orange Rinds. (This was in fact part of Mahault’s winning entry in this past Kingdom A&S Pent.)

It was a grand finale to a glorious day in Ealdormere.

The Innkeeper’s Tale (Snowed Inn III – Passage of Arms, January 17, 2004)

By THLaird Colyne Stewart

It is snowing. Light spills out of an open doorway, within which stands a lone figure. He is leaning on the doorjamb, a dishtowel thrown over his shoulder. He is resting, drawing in deep breaths of cool night air and watching the patterns of the falling snowflakes. Behind him stretches the hall of his inn, which that day had seen a grand tournament take place within its walls. He turns, his feet sore beneath him, and looks down at the melting water tracked across his floors and momentarily considers mopping it up, but decides to let some local scullery boys do it for a penny or two.

Stepping back into the vast empty belly of his inn, he gazes at the benches and tables—now empty—which earlier had held laughing people with mugs of frothing ale. His eyes move to the far wall, where the king and queen of the kingdom—and their heirs!—had sat to watch the tournament. He shook his head, smiling. To think that the king and queen would ever grace his establishment with Their presence. His sons—if the Lord ever graced him with any—would never believe him when he told them of this day.

As this thought flits through his brain, his wife emerges from the kitchens were she has been cleaning. Together they sit at a bench, stretching out their feet, and the innkeeper imagines how he will one day tell his sons of this day....

****

The day had begun early, of course. Before the sun ‘ad risen, we ‘ad all been up and workin’. Tables ‘ad to be set, ovens ‘ad to be stoked, floors ‘ad to be cleaned. Baron Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn, Lady Mahault van der Eych and Lord Berend van der Eych, they was labouring in one of the kitchens, preparing a great feast in the manner of far off Italy. In our other kitchen the Welsh dancer, Tarian verch Gadarn, stirred large pots of stew. The smell of bread permeated the hall, but we had no time ta sneak a bite. Lady Naja Kesali and her team set up the gate, and many took a hand at puttin’ together stands for decorative walls and banners.

The list poles were erected, and a gallery was set to one side. To another were placed the presences of Their Majesties, Their Highnesses, and Their Excellencies of Septentria and Ramshaven. I kid you not, my sons. All of those good nobles were that that day. To a third side was set a row of tables, upon which all fighters present displayed their ‘elms. One fighter, in particular, amazed all with his ‘eraldic display of his ‘elm. For it stood on a decorative stand, and was mantled and crested, and set before a banner bearing his arms. That good gentle was Lord Robert de Bray, new to our lands, having moved ‘ere from the Kingdom of Ansteorra.

A table of games were set in the back, under the eye of Lord Raffe Scholemaystre, while THLady Anne Tinker watched over the Arts and Sciences competition beside ‘im. Both tables saw much activity throughout the day, let me tell you.

Now, those tables filled up pretty quick, and soon the hall was packed full of people. People were dancing, teaching classes, playing games, drinking, eating, singing and making merry.

The main focus for the day, my boys, was a tournament, a “pas d'armes” the ‘eralds called it. The Company of the White Hart had issued a challenge to meet all comers upon the field of honour at our very inn. When the Company was introduced to Their Majesties, one of them raised quite a stir. His name was Sir Nigel MacFarlane, and he was a night of the Dragon, of the great Middle Kingdom. Our king, Sir Rory Cennedi, asked ‘im if, as a foreign knight, we had any need to fear him. The good Sir Nigel replied coolly that no Ealdormerean ‘ad need to fear ‘im, as he was now living within our lands. And so our king and queen did grant this knight citizenship, and our kingdom was richer for it.

The Company then met in combat with the other fighters so assembled, numbering almost twenty as I recall. They fought in matched weapon forms, sometimes at a barrier. Oh my sons, if only you could have seen them, three men per side, battling over the barrier with short lances. Never have I seen fighting such as that. Now the ladies of these great fighters, their consorts, watched from the gallery, and when the fighters ‘ad all exhausted themselves, these ladies came onto the field and handed out tokens.

Count Sir Aaron Worgensson was recognized for ‘is prowess, Robert for generosity, Lord Etian du Naval for his entertaining manner, Lord Tiberius Justuc Brittanicus for ‘is courtesy, Sir Nigelf or ‘is chivalry and the Honourable Lord Richard Larmer for ‘is service.

At the end of the pas, Tiberius stepped forth clasping the Sword of the Company of the White Heart, and he spoke of its lineage. Of ‘ow it came to our lands with Sir Nigel MacFarlane, of how it was given to ‘im at a tournament in the south, of ‘ow he gave the sword to the Honourable Lord Kasmir of Stargard at Snowed Inn I as the grand champion of the day, of ‘ow he himself ‘ad been lucky enough to ‘old it after him. Then, that sword, it was given into the keeping of Lord Etian, to great applause. For a year Lord Etian was to ‘old the sword, and return to Snowed Inn in the following year so that another could win its blade.

That same Lord Robert was taken aside by the seneschal of Ardchreag, who told ‘im of how it was a tradition in our lands to give rings to those who inspire us. And he gave Robert such a ring for ‘is ‘eraldic display and his chivalry upon the field. Lord Robert's lady wife, Isabella of Ardchreag, was also given a ring that day—no, wait, two rings—and she served Their Excellencies of Septentria in court later that same evening. Truly these two were also a great boon to our lands. Ansteorra’s loss was our gain!

When the tournament was completed, the ‘all was set in order for feast.

While those eating dined, many good gentles entertained them with dance, song and story. Her Excellency Dame Alyce de Sheppey, Baroness of Ramshaven, presented an entry for Her Majesty Susanna's bardic challenge. The winners of the arts and sciences competition were announced, and they were, as I recall, Lady Mahault van der Eych for beginner's belt buckle, Lady Lassarfhina Inghean Uilleag for her intermediate bone carving and Lady Deirdre of Carlyle for her stitch work. Many raved over the food, especially the lamb stew and sausages.

At the end of the meal court was ‘eld. I can still remember everyone who was recognized that night. You may laugh, and say that I can't even remember if the chickens have been fed these days, but I tell you it ‘ad been such a grand day that I still remember them all. Their Excellencies Septentria first called for their taxes to be presented. Each canton in attendance then sent a representative forward carrying a Septentrian wardoor with their canton's arms in the chief. That plaid wearing bard you’ve heard me go on about, that ‘Ector fellow, ‘e also paid some taxes, in the form of a sword. Pleased, Their Excellencies then set Their taxes for the following year; they asked that each canton send an entry to the Pennsic War A&S display. Lady Cahtarine of Eoforwic, continuing our ring givin’ tradition, gave such a ring to Dame Tsivia bas Tamara V’Amberview. The barony's army, the Iron Companions, were called into court to renew or make their pledge of service. The van der Eychs, Mahault and Berend, were then inducted into the Order of the Bear's Heart and Lord Tiberius made a formal challenge to them White Bear Fian.  Finally, Laird Colyne Stewart and Thorfinna gra'felr returned the Horn of Wessex, at which time it was retired and given into the care of Baroness Gaerwen of Trafford. At that time, Corwyn and Domhnail unveiled the ‘Oorn of Wessex's successor—the Horn of Muinnen. The Horn was to be presented to an exemplary Septentrian, who inspired others in all their deeds, to be carried by them for one year. To mighty applause, the Honourable Lord Ulvar van der Nederlanden was called for to be the first bearer of the Horn of Muinnen. All Septentrians were then charged to keep the Horn full.

Their Majesties then held Their court. The Brewers and Vintner’s Guild put in an application for a charter from Their Majesties. Lady Corrina van Rensealer and Ihvon Thorne were called into Their presence and awarded with an Award of Arms. (And though Corrina had previously received an AoA at Ealdormere War Practice, our king and queen could not be wrong, and Corinna was called Lady Lady by many.) Both Lady Deirdre of Carlyle and Laird Colyne Stewart received Awards of the Maiden's Hearts, while Lord Wat of Sarum ‘ad his martial skills recognized with an Award of the Scarlet Banner. Lord Raffe Scholemaystre was inducted into the Order of the Wain (making him an Honourable Lord), while Lord Berend and Lady Mahault van der Eych and Lord Volodymyr Blahuciak received Awards of the Orion.

At court's conclusion people began again to dance, or converse and generally carry on until past midnight, at which point they left to the home of Robert de Bray and Isabella where a post-revel was held.

It was a great and glorious day, my sons. Great and glorious.

******'

The innkeeper's wife tugs at his arm and brings him out of his reverie. He blinks and stands up and realizes that he had been close to sleep. As some scullions begin to mop the floors, the tired but happy couple trudge up the stairs to their room in the upper floor for a well earned sleep.

Ravens with Ursine Hearts (Snowed Inn II, the Baronial Investiture Edition, Feb 15, 2003)

THLaird Colyne Stewart

(Ursus Version)

The day actually began the night before. I’m sure our keep was not the only one where folk were busy getting last minute touches done for Snowed Inn. Lord Eirik Andersen, Lina Varville and Lance Gailanasson had come over to help Thorfinna and I put ribbons on the site tokens and finish the SCA direction signs that Brandt and Berend had cut out. We ended up going to bed around two in the morning and getting up at 6:30.

All our goods were piled buy the door so after a quick packing job we got to the site at 8. The hall’s people had put up a stage and set up chairs for court and tables for the populace so little moving of furniture had to be done. We placed a Septentrian wall, something our canton had been working on under the guidance of Lady Gailana Dunkel Pfere, on either side of the stage, and one behind the troll tables. Lord Wat of Sarum and Katerina du nord manned the troll table, while an actual troll, bearing Lord Wulfgang Donnerfaust’s ‘troll komplaint department’ site sat beside them. Wulfgang himself sat across from then, selling bar tickets. William the Younger and Lord Rhys of House Fenrir wandered the halls crying out for events and activities.

People began to arrive and Their Majesties, Their Highnesses and their Excellencies Septentria were set up on the stage. All the other Barons and Baroness of the kingdom were in attendance, and most set up presences to either side of the stage. Many banners adorned the walls and fighters in glorious kits armed for the pas d’armes.

Lady Mahault van der Eych, Berend van der Eych, Tarian verch Gadarn and Gailana toiled in the kitchen while Lady Iolanda de Albornoz set up tables draped in our new Ardchreag tablecloths to house the arts and sciences competitions. At another table were laid several Septentrian relics including: the first helm of Sir Hugo Graf, the first Ealdormerean born knight; the Cauldron of Ceredwyn, an ancestor of the Horn of Wessex, and a special award handed out by Aedan and Caffa, first Baron and second Baroness of Septentria; tunics incorporating pieces of Aedan’s old tunics; ancient Septentrian tabards featuring a golden rather than silver bear; and many more besides.

When all was in readiness, the royalty processed into the hall and Baron Cynred and Baroness Gaerwen presided over their last court. The first order of business was the presentation of Greenhithe’s taxes, being a war banner. Their Excellencies then called up all those who led and planned the Casa Loma demo and gave them tokens for their hard work and dedication. (There were unfortunately too many of them for this poor scribe to record all their names.) The Canton of vest Yorvik, who had many members in attendance that day, presented the barony with $400.

Personal baronial tokens were handed out to: Lady Christina MacNamara, Lord Percival de Laroque, Lady Seonag nic Thomais, Lord Streonwald Wulfesbana, Lady Gabriel de Champagne, Lord Normand Hauberkker, Lord Magnus Kjrr, Master Hector of the Black Height and Baroness Adrielle Kerrec. Lady Fursto de Robnye was recognized for her hard work in the casting of these tokens from the mold created by Lord Ulrich von der See, of beloved memory.

Lord Druss of Dun Aengus, Lord Andree mac Byrne, Lord William Stalker, Lady Tarra Jade of Monadh and Lord Kenric Manning were awarded Bear’s Claws and Lady Katerina of Monadh was awarded a Bear’s Heart.

Their Excellencies then called to them all their champions, martial and otherwise, and released us from their service. As we handed our regalia to the seneschal, Lord Raffe Scholemaystre, we were given tokens from Their Excellencies’ hands.

Finally, the Isengesitha were all called, past and present. Those who had served in the past were acknowledged and thanked. Those still in service were released from their vows by handing their arm rings to Their Excellencies, who put them into the trust of the King and Queen. Lord Tiberius Justus Britannicus, who was the sword reeve of the Isen, was so acknowledged and thanked.

Then, Cynred and Gaerwen knealt before Roak and Arlette and were released from their vows of fealty. After clasping Gwaylor, the Sword of Ealdormere, their coronets were taken into trust by Their Majesties. The tension of the moment, for it was an emotional event, was broken when, from out of a storage room, loomed an eight-foot high white bear wearing a trillium and Septentrian cape. The Great Bear of Septentria itself had come to bless Cynred and Gaerwen for the work they had done. The bear, being old and venerable, had a slight limp and was helped to court by Baron Halfdan Blackanvil and Master Konrad Mattias Jaeger. Upon seeing the limp Hector remarked that “he has a bad Foote.”

Cynred and Gaerwen’s families then came to claim them. Hector, Gaerwen’s Pelican, said there was much laundry and washing of dishes awaiting her, though he admonished her not to fade his plaids. Master Sylard came for Cynred and placed in his hands a giant hammer and a lump of ore. He tasked Cynred to turn that ore into a blade, to which Cynred remarked that the work would not be completely true as he was not allowed to mine the ore himself! Roak, upon seeing Sylard, asked him just how he had been faring in his forge without his dwarf. Sir Edward the Red, speaking of behalf of Earl Syr David Martin Failsworth, claimed Cynred’s sword arm. Then, to much fanfare and applause, Cynred and Gaerwen departed, followed by the giant bear.

Roak and Arlette then called for the Heirs, and Corwyn and Domhnail were processed into court, led by House Galbraith and House Hrogn, both of whom were wearing Septentrian tabards. In a short, dignified ceremony, Corwyn and Domhnail swore their fealty upon Gwaylor and were given their coronets from the hands of Their Lupine Majesties. When they were presented to the populace there was much cheering, clapping and stomping of feet.

Girding themselves with new swords that had mysteriously appeared on their thrones, Corwyn and Domhnail opend a short court as Martya, Baroness of Ramshaven, wished to present them with gifts and words of encouragement.

Their Majesties then called forward Wulfwyn of Greenhithe, and presented her with an Award of Arms for all the hard work she has done for her canton.

With their new Excellencies of Septentria now invested the hall was cleared and the list poles erected so the pas d’armes could begin. One side, led by Lord Richard Larmer, fought to defend love, while the other, led by Lord Nigel McFarlane, fought for the death of love. Nigel, though on the side of death, still always fought for the love of his lady, Baroness Adrielle Kerric, announcing that they were soon to wed, and he was to come and live in Ealdormere. Duke Sir Finnvarr acted as King of Arms and Lina Carville acted as pas herald (it being her first heralding experience). The entire pas d’armes had been spearheaded by Volodymyr Blahuciak. Both sides fought long and hard with many victories for both sides. A large scale had been erected and with each win and loss the scales were adjusted as love would move towards death, and then away. Finally, the King of Arms declared the pas over, and that love and the death of love were tied. Tiberius was given the pas’ grand prize—a sword that he will return with next year for the coming pas d’armes.

The lists were then opened to all and many challenged the pas fighters to combat. Most notably, Her Excellency Domhnail Galbraith battled with His Excellency of Skraeling Althing, Sir Menken Brechen.

Combat of a different sort went on throughout the hall as the Games Guild, under the guidance of Raffe, and with the assistance of Lance, spread their wares for the enjoyment of all. The populace were given coins with which to gamble and at the end of the day, the person with the largest purse would win a plate painted with the Guild’s badge. The plate had been decorated by Lina, and was finally won by a good gentle from Eoforwic.

A lunch counter was provided by the Canton of Greenhithe, under the guidance of Lady Nadja Kesali (formerly known as Ivanna the Oblivious). The food proved to be so popular it quickly ran out of wares.

When the pas was over the populace met for a moot in a room at the end of a long and winding corridor in which many lost their way. Many turns needed to be negotiated, and many barbarians had to be passed before the moot room could be found. One such young barbarian commented that “Those are nice clothes you got there,” to which I replied, “You as well.” What topics exactly were discussed are unknown to me as I was busy with work in the main hall. I’m sure minutes of the moot will soon be made available.

Just before feast I called together the twelve good gentles who had volunteered to slave under my as servers for feast. These included: Lina, Mistress Marian of Heatherdale, Lord Piero di Paxiti da Vincenza, Lady Wencendl of Rokesburg, Lord Gunnar skald Thorvaldsson, Nadja, Lord Rhys of House Fenrir, another member of House Fenrir whose name is unknown to me at this time, William the Younger, Lady Lassarfhina, Thorfinna and myself. We quickly discussed how feast was to be served, then entered the hall and had the populace clear the tables so they could be reoriented for feast. Etienne’s booming voice and bulging muscles were of great aid in this endeavour. A large space was left in the middle of the hall, for much entertainment was planned. Each table was draped with a green Ardchreag tablecloth. And the head table was set with plates displaying the Bear of Septentria, painted by Tarian, Mahault and Berend, which were gifts for those who used them. Likewise, the bowl from the first remove were decorated, this time with trilliums, for those at head table to keep.

The menu was as follows: First Remove—Chilled Juice, Bear Borsht, Light Rye Bread and Tarragon Butter, Crustade, Capons in Salome with Potatoes, Blueberry Ice;

Second Remove—Chilled Juice, Mixed Greens with Raspberry Vinagrette, Dark Rye and Honey Butter, Smoked Salmon with Vidalia Onion Sauce, Orange Balsam Beans, Blueberry Honey'd Ham with Carrots, Calissons d'Aixm, Chocolate Hot Pot. The over all theme of the feast was food fit for a bear.

As the servers placed each course on their respective table they were congratulated on the scope, artistic display and taste of the feast—a testimonial to the talents of the chefs.

As the first course was being served, Her Grace, Duchess Eanor, presented to Their Majesties living Septentrian relics, in the form of Duke Sir Finnvarr de Tahhe, Master Sylvard of Eagleshaven, Mistress Mordreth Llanelli Colwyn and many others.

Thorfinna and I opened the hall bardicly for the last time as new Ursine Bards will be named by Corwyn and Domhnail. We read to the populace a poem for Cynred and Gaerwen the showed how they embodied the Heart and the Claw, two of our baronial awards. Drottin Gunnar de Blacwode performed a true Saxon piece in honour of Cynred, told from memory and containing many kennings. Gunnar showed that day that a true scope dwells within him. A band of dancers performed many dancers for the hall while Dante accompanied them musically. They even managed to drag Cynred Broccan and a kilted Sir Evander MacLachlin onto the dance floor. Many maidens in attendance were quite charmed with the plaid hip movements of the good knight.

Iolanda de Albornoz, with the assistance of Streonwald Wulfesbana, announced the winners of the Arts and Sciences competitions. Lady Eve of Eoforwic won the advanced category for her Persian coat; Mahault and Gailana won the intermediate for their Elizabethan underclothes; and Thorfinna won in the beginner category for her illumination and nallbinding.

Some of the relics of Septentria were then brought forth for judging by Baron Siegfried Brandbeorn. Master Hector displayed a tattered Septentrian tabard complete with tokens from various gentles dating back many years, Hamish Gunn showed the reliquary of House Galbraith, Eanor had what was arguably the first mailed teddy gear and a portrait of herself and her mother, Mistress Ragni Dzintari, by THL Robert of Two Cliffs, and THL Aeneas Oakhammer displayed Cynred’s spear, a relic still fresh and new. Siegfried judged the contest by the cheers of the populace and in the end Hector’s rather odiferous entry won the day, earning him two goblets.

To close feast a large bardic circle gathered in the center of the hall and many great songs were sung by all.

Unseen by most, three good gentles were slaving in the kitchen with the chefs. For the chefs needed the plates of each course returned and washed so they could be reused for coming course. To be so employed did Sheikh Valizan, Lady Roselinde FitzWilson and Ymir donate their time. Each server, and these three washers, were all given shot glasses graced with the arrows of Ardchreag, also painted by Lina. Lance, who had wandered the hall serving juice, was presented with a small cup featuring a bear’s paw.

When feast was finally done the populace wandered and chatted while the royalty were again closeted in meetings, just one more in a long list of them that day. Lina’s cleavage did entertain several former Excellencies of Septentria, and Cynred earned the byname ‘Nimblefingers’ for the treasure he pulled from them. Hector and Master Garraed Galbraith entertained the crowd, sometimes together, sometimes tagging each other in and out in the middle of a song. Then the hearld’s cries were heard and all took to their feet and bowed.

Their Majesties opened their court by hearing the fealty of Baroness Martya, who had not yet sworn for religious reasons. A compromise oath had been reached and all were content. The Laurels likewise swore fealty, and then Their Majesties handed the arm rings of the Isen to Corwyn and Domhnail.

Their Excellencies then began court by asking Master Rufus of Stamford to reassume his role as the baronial harpist, a role which is a long standing tradition within Septentria. House Fenrir, squatters upon Septentrian soil, entered into a contract with Corwyn and Domhnail, and Cynred passed a blade to Corwyn which Ieuan, baron before him, had entrusted to him. As Cynred said, “From grandfather, to father, to son.”

More gifts followed as Ardchreag donated seventeen bear tabards and five bear baldrics, and Baron Siegfried gave them a shield which had once graced the arm of Baron Aedan. Sir Berus Wolfsonn led the Hrogn fra Osis before the coronets and told them that the Hrogn had bled for the Tygre of the East, for the Dragon of the Middle and for the Trillium of Ealdormere but never for the Bear of Septentria. Now that would change. He handed them a sword and told Their Excellencies to command them for a year and a day.

The arm rings were then brought forth and those who wished to swear to the new Septentrian army, now called the Iron Companions, were called forward. The Iron Companions was to be an army that encompassed all martial activities and was to include fighters, scouts, archers, fencers, thrown weapons and equestrian. Thorfinna and I both swore to the barony’s service by pledging our throwing axes.

The matter of taxes was then discussed. Their Excellencies asked that each canton should submit a new wardoor, bearing the arms of said canton, upon the arm of a new fighter who would bear it at Pennsic.

Cynred Broccan was then called into court and given a Bear’s Heart, for truly none has an ursine heart as he.

Their Majesties resumed their court, and gave gifts unto Corwyn and Domhnail, including a new basket to house award tokens.

Heloise, the daughter of Duchess Eanor of Amberhall, was called into court and given and Award of the Wolf’s Cub. Yvonne of Eoforwic and Erik the Mad Mongel were give their Awards of arms and Fursto de Robnye and Percival de Laroque were honoured with Maidens’ Hearts.

Baron Brand and Baroness Brianna of Ben Dunfirth, and Their Highnesses Edouard and Genvieve bestowed more gifts upon Corwyn and Domhnail, including tokens that had once belonged to Aedan.

To much applause, Cynred and Gaerwen were called back into court and given silver coronets bearing six pearls and made a baron and baroness of Their Majesties’ court.

Finally, those who had helped construct the mead hall upon the lands of Duke Sir Finnvarr were placed upon the scroll of honour and the canton of Ardchreag was thanked for hosting the event and all the baronial and kingdom activities asked of them.

At the conclusion of court Thorfinna and I loaded our wagon with any alcohol that had not been sold but could not be returned to the vinter’s and headed home to open the doors of our keep to the post-rev. Gentles came from Ardchreag, Vest Yorvik, Flaming Sky and points beyond. The revelry went until the wee hours of the morning as we toasted Gaerwen, who was in attendance. Finally, at some point, sleep claimed us all.

Singing in the Rain, I Mean Snow, I Mean… (Snowed Inn, Feb 16, 2002)

By THLaird Colyne Stewart

On a drizzly Saturn Day morning, the Canton of Ardchreag gathered at our Inn. For later that day the populace of the Kingdom of Ealdormere were to arrive for a day of tourneys, games and merriment. The Inn was to have renowned guests that day, for not only were Their Royal Majesties to attend, but Their Excellencies Septentria, Ben Dunfirth, Skraeling Althing and Rising Waters were expected, as were knights and other champions traveling from foreign kingdoms. A Pas d’armes was planned for that day, a glorious tournament full of pomp and pageantry.

So the Chreaggers fell to work, preparing the Inn. Ivanna set up a corner for children’s activities, while Vlad and I set up the Lists. Elisabetta and Crispinus set to work preparing lunch while Iolanda and Michaela began supper. The Gatekeeper Mahault and her half-Giant assistant Wulfgang took up their positions by the door, Wulfgang wearing a sign about his neck that read ‘Troll Komplaynt Dept’. (Wulfgang’s true heritage is a mater of much speculation amongst the scholars on the Cliffs.)

The Games Guild spread its wares about the hall, and as the people arrived, they quickly took to these seats. Many engaged in a game of Glic that lasted for eight hours. Jean-Margaret set up an Arts and Sciences competition table in the rear of the hall, where many skilled artisans displayed their wares. Beside her, Gailana sold tickets for a penny raffle and a silent auction that raised much gold for the kingdom.

Though plagued by a cold, I sat at my post at the List table, signing in fighters and recording their challenges. When Baron Cynred signed in, he insisted that I bite his membership and fighting cards to insure that they were genuine. Thorfinna was approached by the Pas team led by Sir Evander MacLachlan, and asked to act as their Herald. She willingly consented, though she had never heralded in public before. I had an excellent seat as both teams marched in. The Company of the White Heart was led by Richard Larimer, who held the Septentrian reliquary to his chest. Many brave and noble fighters took the field that day, including Baron Brand of Ben Dunfirth, Baron Sir Menken Brecken of Skraeling Althing and our Canton’s own Brandt das Lederwerker (who had authorized in Great Weapon earlier that morning). The two Pas teams sent out their captains, who fought one on one, Larimer emerging as the victor. Both teams then set upon each other in force until their differences were resolved. Upon that happy note the teams held the field against all comers, including Baron Cynred, His Royal Majesty Aaron and Chreagger Elspeth.

When the fighting was completed, Wulfgang was dragged from his position at the door, had a shield strapped to his arm and was sent out to continue his habit of battling Peers by getting a lesson in sword and shield by the King. (Later that day, he would face Cynred with boffer weapons.)

Wulfgang had a very full day indeed. Master Hector, who bought a complaint from him, began to heckle the poor giant as Wulfgang found his tongue-tied. When finally he blurted, “Well, how can you expect me to think with all that plaid in front of me!” Hector was no longer listening. Tut, tut. He also found himself under attack by three nefarious Chreaggers who assaulted him with baguettes during supper. Sadly, he succumbed to his wounds. Happily, he miraculously revived enough to run about with a boffer and bash many good gentles that night.

When the fighting was done, and the List polls safely put away, it was time for the Septentrian Performing Arts Troupe to go on. Sickness had stopped the performance at Septentrian 12^th Night, and my sickness almost cancelled it again. We pressed on, and the play went off well, with the hall stopping all activity to watch, and to interact, as it went on. Much frivolity was created by our bumbling acting, and that is all we could have asked for.

Supper began with a laugh as Colyne got Wulfgang to walk the length of the head table, both ways, while bowing to each set of five Peers that sat there. After poor Wulfgang had retaken his seat, Thorfinna and I stood up to sing for the hall. It was the first time I had performed in public, and I think it nicely showed why I’m not a signing bard. Still, folks laughed, and that was the intent.

When our most excellent supper was over court was held. During kingdom court many Chreaggers were awarded Arts and Sciences prizes, and Mahault and Berend were both granted their Award of Arms. This was greeted by thunderous applause.

Also during court our Canton and its populace were praised by King, Queen, Baron and Baroness. I have never heard such an outpouring of public praise before. It made me very proud to hail from the Cliffs.

After court there were many activities. There was the boffer fighting I already mentioned, as well as a chess tournament. There was even some Eastern dancing and drumming which all enjoyed (except for one spode who was rude enough to actually complain to them of the noise they were making). The chess players battled long into the night until finally Stroenwald Wulfesbana won the day.

At midnight the Inn closed its doors, and the populace of Ardchreag returned to their homes, worn and weary but happy in a job well done. Many thanks must go out to all those who helped that day, including our autocrats Eirik and Thorfinna, Berend (who ran many errands), Lachlan (who served as servocrat) and many, many others.