Pennsic War XXXVII 2008

By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

Septentria had a very successful Pennsic this year. THL Wat, Lord Thorolf, Baron Luke, Lady (now Baroness) Dagmar, Lord Bjarn, and Lord Steonwold were all members of the Unbelted Champions’ Team.  Five Septentrians were selected for the Archer Champions’ Team:  THL Dafydd, Lady Mahhild, Baron Percival, Magistra Nicolaa, and Lord Brendan.  THL Gareth represented Ealdormere in the Fencing Champions’ tourney and won his bout, while THL Daniel of Whitby won the Knife competition at the Known World Thrown Weapons tourney and finished second overall.

Early on the week, two Septentrians were singled out for particular honours by Their Majesties:  Lady Dagmar was made a Baroness of the Court for her service during several reigns, and THL Wat of Sarum was put on vigil for the Order of the Chivalry.  His elevation will take place later in the fall.

As has become traditional, TE Percival and Christiana treated the Barony to a Barbeque, again hosted by the Canton of Eoforwic just below the Runestone.   They availed themselves of the opportunity to hold Court once everyone was well fed.  Lady Eithne Briansdottir passed her hereditary Osis ring to Lady Anneke, while Lord Grom passed his on to Bleddyn, one of Eoforwic’s newest fighters.  Lady Marsali was given the Golden Bear for her skill in needlework and costuming, while Lady Alof received a Golden Bear for her Norse clothing, especially its embroidery.  Lord Brendan was called forward, and Their Excellencies noted his excellent service as an Archer Champion - but for the final two shoots, he had shot for the wrong kingdom.  However, stated the Baron, he was only being called forward at this time to receive the Bronze Medal for archery that he had earned at Trillium War.

Master Hector conducted two pieces of business in Court.  The first was to recognize Baroness Cenedl as Heithr’s daughter (and thus his own granddaughter) for the spirit she has brought to Ramshaven.  The second was to take Lord Grom of Eoforwic as his protégé.  Lord Grom was presented with a yellow baldric. 

Their Excellencies then called forward Lord Hans Thovaldsson and thanked him and House Marchmount (as well as all of Eoforwic) for their hospitality in once again hosting and cooking for the barbeque.

Their Excellencies noted that there had not yet been any nominations for the Brass Balls of Septentria, and closed their Court.  However, Lord Brendan was commended vocally for that dubious honour by the audience, so Court was reopened so he could be duly recognized.

During Kingdom Court, several Septentrians were again singled out for honours.  The Cantons of Monadh and Eoforwic were given the honour of carrying their banners in the procession for their generous donations to kingdom beautification.  Countess Domhnail was part of a team added to the Scroll of Honour for “Squashing the Eastern Army like bugs” during the Bridge Battle.  Lady Mahhild de Valognes was given the Award of the Orion for her skills in making clothing, while Baron Cynred was given a Maiden’s Heart for his extensive service over many hears.  Lady Bethoc ingen MaelFechin Fynletyr, who was not present at Pennsic this year, was given the Maiden’s Heart for her service to the Chirugeonate, specifically at Pennsic.

War of the Trillium IV 2008

By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

This year’s War of the Trillium had a timely theme:  Ealdormere’s first-ever Olympic Games.  A variety of competitions were held in all of the martial arts and in the arts and sciences, with incredibly spiffy gold, silver, and bronze medals going to the victors.  Each Barony was asked to provide a “national anthem” that could be played while the baronial banner of the gold medal winners was raised.  Septentria opted for her traditional battle song (written by Mistress Rhiannon).  The anthem was heard many times, as Septentria triumphed in the overall competition.  The complete list of scores and medal winners follows this report.

A short Baronial Court was held before TRM Rustique and Aaron held their court.  Baron Percival and Baroness Christiana first recognized the cooperation between the Baronies in the armoured combat melees that had taken place earlier in the day which had ensured that all the baronies could field teams. The next order of business was to formally invest Lord Bjarn Thorolfsson with his tabard as Baronial Warlord at Pennsic this year.  Finally, Eoforwic presented 150 Septentrian bear badges to Their Excellencies in payment of the “extra” tax revolt taxes.

In Kingdom Court, Eoforwic presented 50 Trillium tabards  in response to Queen Rustique’s Ealdormere beautification challenge.  Lord Michael of Brentwood was commended by the Chirurgeonate for his emergency services.  Mistress Keja presented rings to Baroness Cennedl and THL Jhone of Woodcote for their inspiration.  Master Gaerred, at his last Ealdormerian event, presented the profits from the Raven Pub at Crown Tourney, as well as a collection of CDs by Marian and Hector, all to benefit the travel fund.

Many Septentrians were recognized with awards in Court. Lady Marasali and Lady Tarian both received Maiden’s Hearts, as did former Septentrian Lord Wulfgang Donnerfaust.  Lady Anneke the Furious was given the Orion for her embroidery work while Lord Grom of Eoforwic was given the Scarlet Banner for his skill in thrown weapons. Also receiving a Scarlet Banner, for his skill and enthusiasm in promoting archery, was Lord Michael of Brentwood.  Finally, Lady Medb ingen Dungaile was made a Companion of the Order of the Crucible for her many skills, including research, cookery, sprang, needlework, and beadwork.

Sunday saw the semi-annual Kingdom Moot take place.  There was a great deal of discussion around awards for children in Ealdormere and whether or not more were needed. There were a wide variety of opinions on all sides of the issue, but consensus was reached that encouraging Ealdormere’s young people to form a council and discuss what they would like to see would be an excellent next step.  The second major topic was around whether or not there should be authorizations for archery.  The archery marshals attending were of the opinion that these were not needed as they control the line and are responsible for shooters.  The topic of award recommendations was also raised, partially as a result of the discussion on children’s awards. 

Several who had sat the thrones previously or who were currently reigning emphasized that they do not get enough award recommendations and that anyone can recommend anyone for any award, including Peerages.

Baronial Scores

Overall

Septentria                             53

Ben Dun­rth                           34

Skraeling Althing                  20

Rising Waters                        18

Ramshaven                            17

Shires                                     10

Categories and Medal Winners

Decathalon

Gold - Nicolaa - Septentria

Silver - Baudoin - Ben Dun­rth

Bronze - Roak - Ben Dun­rth

Fighting

Torchlight Tournament

Gold - Baldric - Skraeling Althing

Silver - Sir Evander - Shires

Bronze - Sir Nigel - Septentria

Newbie Tournament

Gold - Quilliam - Septentria

Silver - Adelle - Rising Waters

Bronze - Algar - Rising Waters

Singles

Gold - Wat of Sarum - Septentria

Silver - Tarquin - Ben Dunfrith

Bronze - Baldric - Skraeling Althing

Bridge Battle

Gold - Skraeling Althing

Silver - Shires

Bronze - Septentria

Melee 3 Man

Gold - Team Berus - Septentria

Silver - Team Ard Chreag - Septentria

Bronze - Team Roak - Ben Dun­rth

Melee 6 Man

Gold - Team Ramshaven

Silver - Team Septentria

Bronze - Team Rising Waters

Melee 9 Man

Gold - Hrogn - Septentria

Silver - Rising Waters

Bronze - Team Roak - Ben Dun­rth

Martial Pentathalon

Gold - Roak

Silver - Naga

Fencing

Singles

Gold - Giovanni d'Ezinas - Skraeling Althing

Silver - Albrecht Stampfer - Ramshaven

Bronze - Baudoin - Ben Dun­rth

Populace

Gold - Rising Waters

Silver - Ramshaven

Bronze - Ben Dunfrith

Thrown Weapons

Populace

Gold - Septentria

Silver - Ben Dunfrith

Bronze - Ramshaven

Singles

Gold - Caitriona - Septentria

Silver - Daniel of Whitby - Septentria

Bronze - HRM Sir Aaron - Ealdormere

Archery

Singles

Gold - Raithe - Rising Waters

Silver - Nicolaa - Septentria

Bronze - Brendon Huntersea - Septentria

Populace

Gold - Septentria

Silver - Ben Dun­rth

Bronze - Rising Waters

Youth Combat

Dev 1

Gold - Gareth - Rising Waters

Silver - Miranda - Septentria

Dev 2

Gold - Ellie - Shires

Silver - Simeon - Rising Waters

Dev 3

Gold - Athena - Shires

Silver - Ivor - Skraeling Althing

Bronze - Anwyn - Septentria

Arts and Sciences

Studio Crafts

Gold - Nicolaa - Septentria

Silver - Nicolaa - Septentria

Bronze - Marion - Ben Dun­rth

Technical Sciences

Gold - Marion - Ben Dun­rth

Silver - Whithe - Skraeling Althing

Bronze - Godfredy - Ben Dun­rth

Domestic Sciences

Gold - Baudoin - Ben Dun­rth

Silver - Eliened - Skraeling Althing

Bronze - Aelfgyva - Ramshaven

Textiles

Gold - Nicolaa - Septentria

Silver - Baudoin - Ben Dun­rth

Bronze - Aelfgyva - Ramshaven

Performance Arts

Gold - Nicolaa/Tsivia

Silver - Aelfgyva - Ramshaven

Bronze - Mary Hannah - Septentria

Ulrich von den See

Mead Competition

Gold - Baudoin - Ben Dun­rth

Silver - Marion - Ben Dun­rth

Bronze - Murt - Skraeling Althing

A&S Pentathalon

Gold - Nicolaa - Septentria

Silver - Baudoin - Ben Dun­rth

Bronze - Marion - Ben Dun­rth

Fall Crown List 2008

By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

This fall’s Crown Tourney list once again features many Septentrians.  Here is the complete list:

 Duke Sir Edouard Beausoleil for Countess Domhnail Galbraith

 Duke Sir Roak of Ealdormere for Countess Jocea Valente

 Duke Sir Berus Wolfson for Duchess Marion Fitzwilliam

 Sir Wat of Sarum for Countess Susanna the Unyielding

 Count Sir Edward the Red for Countess Rylyn Buchanan

 Count Master Trumbrand the Wanderer for Countess Kaylah the Cheerful

 Sir Evander MacLachlan for TH Lady Melusine de la Rose

 Sir Nigel MacFarlane for Baroness Adrielle Kerrec

 Sir Siegfried Brandboern for TH Lady Mauvrneen MacKellar

 Baron Sir Konrad Mattais Jaeger for Baroness Alyce de Sheppey

 Baroness Dagmar Halvdan for Baron Luke Wolfson

 TH Baron Richard Larmer for Lady Annabelle Makmyllane

 TH Lord Tiberius of Warwickshire for TH Lady Anne Tinker

 Lord Streonwold Wulfesbana for TH Lady Seonag Nic Thomais

 Lord Quilliam of Septentria for Lady Jocelyne Roget de Cranewall  

Feast of the Bear 2008

By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

After a year’s hiatus, Eoforwic again hosted Feast of the Bear, this time in a new site, St. Simon’s church on Bloor St. in Toronto.  While nothing can replace the ambience of Casa Loma, in many ways this new site comes close, while providing amenities (such as heat, a collocated kitchen, sufficient electricity, and indoor washrooms) that the old Stables site lacked.  The main hall featured a soaring vaulted ceiling and a large, simple stained glass window, while the outdoor fighting area benefited from the church’s gothic-style architecture. There was also ample room for a variety of activities.

After a short morning court, THLord Wat of Sarum sat his vigil for the Order of the Chivalry in the upstairs choir loft, beautifully decorated by his friends.  An ample spread of food greeted his guests.

The large turnout of fighters (both armoured and rapier combatants) enjoyed several tourneys throughout the day.  The armoured combatants took part in a plunder tourney, where bouts were decided over various items of plunder.  A speed tourney also took place.  Later in the day,  Baron Percival (in armour) and Baroness Christiana witnessed the successful White Bear Fian challenge of Lord Rattanicus. Meanwhile rapier combatants amused themselves with a tourney in which they were both required to hang on to the ends of a rope while fighting.

Inside, Lord Gunnar treated attendees to a fabulous lunch table spread, with all proceeds benefiting the Eoforwic winter fight site.  Also benefiting the payment of rent on the fight site was a raffle organized by Lord Gunther Wahlstadt featuring a number of desirable items, including a hand-made knife and an armour grab bag.

A&S classes were organized by Viscountess Morgon.  Lady Helena taught knitting, THL Asa taught Lindesfarne-style illumination and Lady Lyda taught Runes. In the main hall, Lord Darius and Lady Lynette taught a large group a number of dances.  The children were not forgotten, with activities organized by Lady Eithne.

Court was held before feast.  TRM Etain and Valfreya gave leave to Baron Percival and Baroness Christiana to hold their court.  THL Berend van der Eych was called forward to receive his Crucible scroll, given in absentia during the previous reign. They recognized Lady Sara of Swordcliffe with a Bear’s Claw for her baking and cheesemaking at Pennsic, and then witnessed the transfer of the office of Mayor of the Royal City of Eoforwic from Lady Joscelyne to Lord Grom.  Magistra Nicolaa and the citizens then completed payment of Eoforwic’s baronial taxes by presenting the completed embroidered arms of Eoforwic.

After conducting some brief business that saw Bleddyn of Eoforwic receive his Award of Arms and Lady Alof of Eoforwic recognized with an Orion for her Norse clothing, Their Majesties then turned to the main business of the day, the elevation of THL Wat of Sarum to the Order of the Chivalry.  Having released his squire from fealty in the morning ceremony, Count Sir Cennedi opened the ceremony.  Baron Corwyn spoke for Wat as a Laurel, Baroness Adrielle as a Pelican, and Duke Aaron and Duchess Rustique as Royal Peers. The new knight was clad in a new shirt of mail before his lady Oksana girded him with two belts. Both spurs and a sword were also presented before His Majesty dubbed the new knight, who then chose to receive the buffet as a slap to the face (which resounded across the hall).  Sir Wat was then presented with his scroll -  a stained glass window made by Lady Tarian - before being greeted by his Order and the cheering populace.

The evening’s activities were topped by the feast prepared by Lord Ludwig.  The food was plentiful and tasty, inducing what one of the Royals termed a “food coma.” A particular highlight was the carving of the perfectly-done beef roasts by THL Naga, who first artfully tied back his sleeves before slicing two huge roasts into portions for every table, which were then served by Lord Mayor Grom. The lemon sorbet was another particular favourite.   He and his staff were recognized with a standing ovation from the Royals and all present.

Eoforwic received a great deal of praise on the beauty of this new site.   Mark your calendars - the next Feast of the Bear will take place May 2, 2009 (with an Icelandic Althing taking place in the fall of 2009.) 

Forecast for Hell: - 40 degrees (Huntsman’s Harvest 2008)

By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

Who, may you ask, is the unknown fighter in the picture on p. 5 whose arms are not shown? Well believe it or not that shield bears the arms of none other than the Baron of Septentria, Percival de la Rocque. The pictures were taken at Huntsman's Harvest in Ben Dunfirth over the Thanksgiving weekend and depict Baron Percival fighting his authorization bout against Count Trumbrand the Wanderer. His Excellency Percival scored a killing thrust to win not only the bout but his Authorization in Sword & Shield and Dagger (Thrusting).

Following the discovery of some magical armour that offers protection to his less than healthy back and with the approval of his Barber Surgeon, Percival sought out and travelled to a Top Secret training facility hidden in the mountains to the west of Septentria and over this past summer has struggled to learn the skills needed to accomplish this goal. Septentria, Our lands are safe in the hands of a Baron who can lift sword to defend them should the need arise and our King call forth our troops to war 

Volley of Arrows 2008

By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

The Canton of Vest Yorvik hosted what will hopefully be the first of many events at the Archers of Caledon site. As the name suggests, the site is dedicated archery club featuring multiple ranges, including a huge Olympic-length range and two woods ranges. Archery marshal Lord Michael of Brentwood also brought along some additional butts and Percival’s pendulum to tempt shooters.  The only complaint about the site was that the club bans all crossbows, which meant that shooters who had only brought a crossbow were restricted to Lord Michael’s range.

The size of the site and the multiple ranges allowed one group to shoot an IKAC on the Olympic butts while teaching and shorter shoots took place on the other range. A small but dedicated group of fighters also turned out to spar;  even though this was an archery-focused event there was plenty of room for other activities.  Inside, the Bow Shop had set up a booth and was doing a brisk business selling archery supplies.  They also donated a bow and other equipment to Vest Yorvik for a raffle.

The highlight of the day for most was the chance to shoot the 3D range.  Thirty full-sized 3D animal targets were placed throughout the woods in a variety of challenging scenarios, including a panther on a tree log and a bear that had knocked over a garbage can.  The range and the targets themselves were beautifully maintained and very challenging, but hugely entertaining.  The woods shoot was won by _____

A second IKAC was arranged later in the day in order to provide more scores for Ealdormere in this yearly competition.  The overall IKAC was won by THL Dafydd ap Sion, with Lord Gunther Wahlstadt finishing second and Lord Brendan in third.

Cloth of Gold 2008

 By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

 There’s nothing quite like the accomplishment of going, in the space of nineteen hours, from a pile of fabric, findings, and ideas to complete, finished garments with multiple layers.  Held once again at the Lake Vista clubhouse in Oshawa and hosted by the Canton of Eoforwic, Cloth of Gold attracted six teams up to the challenge.  

Septentria fielded three teams.  The team consisting of Lady Violetta and Lady Brigit from Vest Yorvik managed to complete their 13th century man’s outfit, including undertunic, braies, hosen, coif, and outer tunic, despite having only two active sewers.  Another team, consisting of Lord Niall the Victualler and his family, recreated a tableau from the Manesse codex (bottom).  The lady’s garment, consisting of undertunic, stockings, shoes, pouch, tunic, surcote, and fillet (the final four items in gleaming silk colours) was finished to completion.  A team led by THLady Unnr Hringsdottir and consisting mainly of ladies from Eoforwic (top) completed an extensive, handsewn Norse women’s outfit, including undertunic, stockings, shoes, tunic, apron dress, mantle, cap, and accessories.

Three teams, including two from Starleaf Gate in the Middle Kingdom, rounded out the competitors.  Team Ramshaven completed a women’s Italian ensemble, including hairstyle (middle), despite having lost their Italian expert to illness. The Gluttons for Punishment completed an early Anglo-Saxon ensemble with multiple layers sewn by hand mostly with hand-spun thread, and Crystal Cat completed a women’s 16th century Spanish ensemble.

Throughout the night, Lord Ludwig and Lady Sophia kept the contestants awake with ever-available coffee and well-fed with nutritious food.  The event staff, including Lady Jocelyn, also stayed on-site to work on projects..

After each team presented their outfit and received tokens from Baron Percival and Baroness Christiana, the judges announced the winners. First place in Novice went to Ramshaven; first place in Advanced to Unnr’s team. Special commendations went to Gluttons for Punishment for fibre nuttiness and Lord Niall’s team for teamwork and sprit.

Late Winter Shoot 2008

 By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

Just as Winter War is the traditional opening of the Melee Season, archers look to Late Winter Shoot to knock the rust off of their arrows and prepare for the upcoming archery season.  The event always attracts many archers from around Ealdormere as well as visitors from AEthelmearc. This year was no exception, with over 40 archers taking the line.  This year also saw the addition of a new activity, with thrown weapons enthusiasts bearing the chilly temperatures and the melting snow to toss a few knives and axes.

The tournament results had a distinctly southern flavour to them. The morning’s Winter Shot was won by Baron Caleb (the new Baron of the Rhydderich Hael) with 158 points, followed by Lord Robert Guerin with 135 points and Sir Evander with 118 points.  The afternoon Winter Shoot was won by Baron Connor Bowsplitter, also of the Rhydderich Hael, with 164 points, followed by Baron Caleb (despite a spectacular crossbow failure near the end of the shoot) with 147 points, and Lord Aodhan with 138 points.   Baron Connor also won the Novelty Shoot.

After the tournaments ended, a short Baronial Court was held on the range.  Prizes of leather satchels and pouches were awarded to the tourney winners.  Bohemond from Caer Draeth was awarded a Bear’s Heart for his efforts in securing an  archery site for regular practices.  Lady Mahhilde de Valonges was awarded a Golden Bear for her many skills. A brass arrowhead to recognize archery promotion in Petrea Thule was passed on to THL Dafydd ap Sion.  TE Percival and Christiana noted this was the first anniversary of the announcement of their succession as Baron and Baroness of Septentria and thanked all for a wonderful first year.

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.

Winter War 2008

 By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

Melee season officially opened with Winter War on March 1, held this year at a new site in St. Thomas that offered multiple rooms for various activities and the ever-popular hot showers.  Lots of good, clean fighting was observed as fighters knocked the rust off their melee armour. Rapier combatants also enjoyed a full day of combat, this time in a room that also featured the bar.  

Winter War has gained a reputation as a golden opportunity for the upcoming War Kings of the East and/or Middle to come to Ealdormere in search of allies.  This year both TRH of the East, Konrad and Brenwen, and TRH of the Middle, Lars and Tessa, were in attendance, and there was much exchanging of gifts.

A gathering of archers and thrown weapons participants was held in an effort to lay the ground work for a Kingdom Corps of missile weapon enthusiasts. Discussion included ideas on ranking systems, skill sets to be included in a ranking system and possible names and other details. More meetings and discussions will follow. A Yahoo group for archers (ealdormerearchery) has been created and is open for all to join.

Several pieces of business of note were conducted during Court.  First, the shires of Flaming Sky and Noergate were formally dissolved and their citizens incorporated into the Shire of Brennistein Vatn, the culmination of the “Ubershire” project to bring all Northern shires under one single banner.  Another high note was the naming of THLord Wat of Sarum as the captain of the Unbelt team for Pennsic.  Two Peers were made, as Rachael Catherine McLellan was added to the Order of the Laurel and Nadrah bint Valizan al-Garnitiyya was elevated to the order of the Pelican.  Both sat their vigils during the day.

Murder Melee 2008

By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

Magistra Nicolaa’s observations:

Even though the archery was located some distance away, those who made it out to the range greatly enjoyed themselves, thanks in great part to Lord Michael of Brentwood’s assistance.  Percival’s Pendulum made another appearance, but the highlight was the “Duckman Shuit”.  Lord Donald the Duckman was having a birthday, and you had to try to shoot his age (which you had to guess).  The target was Lord Donald in a barrel with a shield featuring a duck.  Hitting his body or the duck was worth negative points.  It turned out that the Duckman was 60, and two archers were presented with prizes during court for coming the closest.  (I seemed to think he was 75—and it would have been worse had I not hit the body and the duck one time each, although Baron Percival’s –17 was a particular accomplishment.)

The great court with all of the baronies represented mentioned above was a return to the Melee days of old, where the baronies would sit together with Their Majesties and generally get into all kinds of trouble with each other.  It was wonderful to see this again.  Using the beautiful site we’ve come to love from FOOL and Ragnarok helped to ensure the success of this event, as did bringing back the 10-man melee tourney. 

Pikeman’s Pleasure 2008

By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

If you didn’t mind all the deaths, Pikeman’s Pleasure was an enjoyable late spring event.  People just kept dying all over the place.  Scores were kept.  And bodies were looted. It was all in good fun, however, as part of of a competition for best death.  While we did not see who won, we certainly had our favourite, as you will read below.

Archery is always a highlight at Pikeman’s, and this was no exception.  Both the IKAC shoot and the Exact 30 (in which participants had to score exactly 30 points on a target or be eliminated) shoots were won by Lord Gunther Wahlstadt.   At the thrown weapons range, Lord Grom was victorious.  Several individual armoured combat tourneys were held. King Aaron won the sword and shield tournament, Duke Edouard the short spear tourney, Lord Wulfric won the great sword tourney, and Lord Quilliam won the Warlord tourney

Their Excellencies also held a baronial court.  Lady Cecily Thatcher was given the Bear’s Heart for dedicated work at the gate at Petrea Thule events. THL Tiberius was given the Golden Bear for his contribution of prizes, particularly in leather, for the Late Winter Shoot.  Lord Griffin also received a Golden Bear for his gorgeous carved and painted leatherwork.  And in Their Majesties’ court, Lord Brendan Hunterson, one of Petrea Thule’s quieter but talented archers, received the Award of the Scarlet Banner.

It was noted at the end of Kingdom Court that Lord Streonwold had stepped in to herald Their Majesties’ court at the last minute, so Queen Rustique called him forward and presented him with a piece of cake. He had barely taken one bite when it was announced that he had been poisoned.  He proceeded to fall face first into the cake, which stuck to his face as he staggered about and ultimately succumbed. 

Spring Crown Tournament 2008

By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

Crown Tourney was contested this year at the site usually used to host Ragnarok, thus gaining the moniker “Ragnarcrown.”  The weather problems of the preceding weekend did not recur, and the tourney was held in gorgeous sunshine.  Their Excellencies of Septentria were able to use a sunshade originally constructed by Eoforwic some years ago that had been languishing in the basement of the Eoforwic Quartermaster for some time and which has now been returned to usefulness.

Nine combatants entered the list, and after a round robin tourney the semi-finalists were determined.  Sir Evander Maclachlan was defeated by Sir Etain au Naval, and Sir Siegfried Brandbeorn was victorious over THL Wat of Sarum.  Sir Etain prevailed in the finals, and thus he and his lady wife Valfreya Greenspeare were invested as Ealdormere's Crown Prince and Princess

Spring Coronation 2008

By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

The coronation of TRM Aaron and Rustique took place on a late April day with storms threatening—but never actually materializing—for most of the day.  After King Trumbrand and Queen Kaylah left the thrones (having gifted THL Naga with a favour “or small orang-utan,” among other parting awards), Aaron appeared in Roman clothing, setting the theme for the reign. Having taken the crown, he then crowned Rustique, dressed in Persion clothing, as his Queen. 

The day saw several tourneys to determine King’s Champions, all of which were won by Septentrians. On the rapier lists, THL Gareth triumphed, and in thrown weapons, THL Daniel of Whitby won the day.  On the archery field, Baron Percival and Magistra Nicolaa ended the tourney in a tie. It was determined that Magistra Nicolaa would become the champion, as HE Percival has other duties guarding the King’s lands already.  However, a shootoff was held at a devilishly evil smiley face, which Baron Percival won after Magistra Nicolaa shot one arrow that was missing a tip . (ed.  That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it.)

Besides the appointment of the three champions determined by tourney, King Aaron appointed Kellen as his armoured combat champion and Queen Rustique appointed Baron Cynred as her armoured combat champion.  THL Eirik was added to the Scroll of Honour for his work on the Ealdormere website.  After the Canton of Monadh presented the Kingdom with new gates for the Ealdormere encampment at Pennsic, the Queen challenged all cantons, households, and groups to help beautify Ealdormere.

It was also announced that Ealdormere will be fighting with the Middle Kingdom this year at Pennsic, and to that end Sir Evander was appointed as War General. Queen Rustique requested that once again a Sea of Red appear on the field, with all fighters wearing the Trillium of Ealdormere.

A subtlety competition also took place at the event, which attracted several enthusiastic entries.  It was won by Lady Medb ingen Dungaile.

Feast of the Hare 2008

By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

One of the earliest members of the Barony, Mistress Tsivia, was put on vigil for the Order of the Pelican at Feast of the Hare. She was a founding member of the Canton of Noerlandia, a predecessor of the Canton of Skeldergate, and is the senior active member of the Order of the Laurel in Ealdormere. She will be elevated for her long service to the Society, particularly as a Chirurgeon, at Winter War in March.  Wassail for the future Pelican!

Kingdom A&S 2008

By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

The Canton of Vest Yorvik hosted this year’s Kingdom A&S competition on a wild, windy and rainy mid-November day.  A number of Septentrians either entered or set their projects up for display.  It seems like every year an unofficial theme emerges—this year, it seemed to be bookbinding, as a book press and some bound books were part of the entries, and a demonstration area was set up as well. 

Three entrants competed in the Pentathlon this year:  Lady Tarian verch Gadarn, THLady Medb ingen Dungaile, and Mistress Tsivia.   The competition was tight, but THLady Medb was declared the winner.  Her five entries included cookery (for her dish of Snowe), a sugarpaste chess set, bookbinding, an embroidered sweet bag, and a carved leather book satchel. 

Fall Crown Tournament 2008

By Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

Fall Crown was hosted by the Canton of Greyfells at what is now becoming a traditional event site, the Rideau Acres Campground.  The torrential rain forced the tourney indoors and somewhat restricted the size of the list field and the use of mass weapons forms, but the fighting was still of high quality and intriguing to watch. 

Several Septentrians distinguished themselves in the Tourney. Lord Quilliam, fighting in his first Crown, advanced far into the lists and just missed the final four, defeating Duke Edouard Beausoliel along the way.  Sir Siegfried is now a familiar sight in the final rounds;  he,  too, advanced to the final four. He was defeated by Sir Nigel, who then defeated Count Edward the Red to reach the finals against Duke Roak, who had gone undefeated.   The finals featured some of the most stylish fighting yet seen in a Crown final, with Sir Nigel at times appearing to have stepped out of a period fighting treatise.  A bout with six-foot spears was fought with a pair of weapons that had been finished to look nearly like the real thing.

In the end, Duke Roak, fighting for Countess Jocea, overcame Sir Nigel in an intense final, and thus became the new Prince of Ealdormere. Word has it that a creative Coronation ceremony is in the works for next April.