August 6-10, AS 51 (2016)
45th Annual Pennsic War

Documented from the Rolls and Files of the Coram Regibus of Thomas Byron et Ariella, Rex et Regina Æthelmearc: Being a True Record of the Business of Their Majesties’ Royal Court at the 45th Pennsic War. As recorded by Gwendolyn the Graceful, Brehyres, Jewel of Æthelmearc Herald, with the assistance of Don Eric Grenier de la Barre, Freiherrin Helena Mützhazenin (Fleur D’Æthelmearc Herald), Lord Pavel Dudoladov, THL Gytha Oggesdottir (Silent Herald), Kameshima-kyō Zentarō Umakai (Silver Buccle Herald), Drotin Jǫrundr hinn Rotinn (Comet Pursuivant), Maighstir Uilliam MacantSaior (Sycamore Herald), and Master Fridrikr Tomasson.

On the 6th of August, Their Majesties received The Honorable Lady Álfrún ketta and asked if it was her wish to sit vigil to contemplate elevation to the Most Noble Order of the Laurel. Upon her reply, They invited forward the present companions of that Order to conduct her to the place of her vigil and give her counsel. Court was suspended.

On the following day, Their Majesties called Don Clewin Kupferhelbelinc before Them. They then received Their Masters of Defense to conduct Don Clewin to the field, there to hold against all challengers and hear counsel prior to elevation into the Most Noble Order of Defense. Court was suspended.

In the evening on the 7th, Their Majesties resumed Their Court to place His Grace, Duke Timothy of Arindale, upon his vigil for induction into the Order of the Pelican. Court was suspended.

Later on the same day, Their Majesties reconvened Their Court in the presence of Their Heirs, Marcus and Margerite, and Their Excellencies Brandubh and Hilderun of the Barony-Marche of the Debatable Lands, having business with several of Their Excellencies’ subjects.

Meister Urho Walterinen, having been found among the populace despite his assurances that he would not be attending any other events during Their Majesties’ reign, was brought forward to explain this discrepancy. Well pleased with his answer, Their Majesties were additionally glad of the opportunity to present him with the scroll intended to commemorate him as the 41st Jewel of Æthelmearc. Their Majesties threatened that if he chooses to appear at yet another event, despite assurances to the contrary, They may will call him a third time to present the medallion! Scroll by THL Máirghréad Stíobhard inghean uí Choinne.

Their Majesties summoned before them Lady Silence de Cherbourg. They noted that “Silence the Bard” is rarely an accurate description, and praised her dedication to her arts despite the challenges of young children and other commitments that often take precedence. They added to Their own regard that of another body who would see her among their number, and thus invited Their Order of the Fleur D’Æthelmearc, Granting her Arms and naming her a Companion of the Order. Scroll by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.

Their Majesties next required THL Silence to switch baby duty with Betkin van Uutwijck that They might receive her into Their Presence. They spoke with her of her time spent retaining and particularly of her garb in the Flemish style, and felt it mete that she be raised to Their nobility as befit one with such talents and gifts. Thus did They Award her Arms. Scroll by Lady Vivienne of Yardley.

The Honorable Lord Ishiyama Gentarou Yorie’e, then being called before Their Majesties, was presented with a book that had come into Their Majesties’ possession. His Majesty explained that the book was from an admirer who wished to remain anonymous, and had begged Their Majesties to pass the gift on to His Lordship that he might use it to further his study of period Japanese furnishings. His Lordship carefully received the volume, which was of some age and delicate condition, with his thanks.

Their Majesties next wished the attendance of Lady Cionaodh Gunn. In recognition of her superlative grace under the challenges of this year’s War Practice, Their Majesties were minded to bestow unto her the Golden Escarbuncle.

Their Majesties next sought the presence of The Honorable Lady Muirgheal inghean Dubhghaill. She was relieved of her duty as retainer to Their Excellencies in order to come before the throne. Not for retaining, but for her skill with sword and bow, and her service as marshall, did Their Majesties seek to reward her, and thus They deemed it proper to include her among Their Order of the Golden Alce.

In an odd coincidence, Their Majesties’ next desire was to speak to The Honorable Lord Kieran MacRae, who had replaced Her Ladyship in attending Their Excellencies. Nonetheless, he was brought before the throne, where Their Majesties remarked on all the areas in which he strives. But none have been more evident than his skill with pen and brush, the intrepid “combat scribe” ability to create works of beauty with no pen but a chisel-tip marker, and no canvas but an awkward spear haft. Gifts of this magnitude are greatly to be praised, and have earned the accolade too of Their Highnesses, and also of The Most Noble Order of the Laurel. Therefore, Their Majesties invited Their Order of the Laurel to join Them and instructed His Lordship to hold vigil at Agincourt, where Their Heirs would hear his answer whether he will join that august Order. Scroll by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.

Their Majesties next invited Mistress Irene von Schmetterling before Them, while the Order of the Laurel was convened. They there inquired whether she were prepared to sit her own vigil as had been previously commanded. At her reply, They instructed Their Order to take her forth to the place of her vigil, and invited all who would offer counsel to seek her there.

Their Majesties also made it known that Don Clewin’s elevation to the Order of Defense would occur on the field on the following day at half-past noon. Her Majesty further announced that She would bestow favors on all who wished for one, following the suspension of Court.

Their business being concluded, Their Majesties gave permission to Their Excellencies to hold their court. Following the close of Their Excellencies’ Court, Their Majesties thanked all scribes and regalia wrights who contributed to either of the evening’s awards, and Court was suspended.

On the following day, the 8th of August, Their Majesties resumed Court by receiving Don Clewin Kupferhelbelinc and inquiring of him whether he had decided to accept elevation into the Order of Defense. Pleased by his acceptance, They invited those Masters of Defense there present to come foward in support of their newest companion. First, Duchess Líadain ní Dheirdre Chaomhánaigh praised Don Clewin for his presence, a quality that shines through his bearing, his dress and armor, his smile, his stance, his words, and all he does. Within the tapestry of the Dream, strands are woven of actions, works, and presence, and Her Grace attested to the inspiration and enrichment on display in the thread that Clewin contributes. Next, Duke Timothy of Arindale spoke on behalf of the Chivalry, noting that as a Knight, it is his duty to serve King, Queen, Kingdom, and Society. In Clewin, His Grace recognizes a natural Peer, whether the outward symbol be a belt or a livery collar, and he is proud to call him both brother and Peer. Meisterin Fredeburg von Katzenellenbogen attested to his artistry, equivalent to a Laurel in the way he teaches and distributes manuals of fence, as well as how he constantly seeks out additional information and perfects its practice, honing not only his own technique, but that of those around him. She commented that often she has to remind him to go fight, because he is immersed in teaching. Mistress Zoë Akropolitina, representing the Order of the Pelican, recounted Clewin’s many, many acts of service, as a fighter, a fencer, a teacher, and more. She affirmed that he is always somewhere teaching, or if not teaching, lending a hand. Finally, Duchess Dorinda Courtenay imparted the knowledge that mastery can only be achieved by balance. Clewin balances his family with the call of the sword; he balances his lady’s time on the field with his own; he balances his love of historical fencing technique with the rules of the list; he balances his love of rattan with his love of rapier and steel. He has achieved balance, and with it mastery, with the common thread throughout that is his love for the sword. Hearing these words, Their Majesties were well minded to continue, and ordered placed about him both a personal livery collar, made by the hand of Meisterin Fredeburg, and the ancestral livery collar. The lineage of the ancestral collar was read and the book presented to Meister Clewin, to add his own page and pass on to the next Master of Defense when the time comes. He was given his sword with which to defend the realm, and a coat to proclaim his status. He then swore his oath to Their Majesties upon his own sword. The scroll, an etched buckler, was made by Master Aanais Fenn.

Her Majesty once again announced that She would distribute favors and that prior to the afternoon’s rapier battle, She would address the Rapier Army. There being no further business at that time, Court was suspended.

Late in the evening of August 8th, Their Majesties were possessed of a desire to see the performance of I Genesii, despite its conflict with Their own party in Their Royal encampment. Although They attempted to stealthily ensconce Themselves among the audience, a miscalculation led to Their appearance upon the stage itself! Their Majesties therefore did the only logical thing: They resumed Court, shortly after which, They demanded that Lord Angus MacDougal cease his playacting long enough to be named a Companion of the Order of the Sycamore, in recognition of his service and faithful participation among I Genesii. Scroll by Lady Abigail Kelhoge. Court was quickly suspended before anything else could go wrong–er, happen.

On the evening of Tuesday, August 9th, Their Majesties resumed Their Court, accompanied by Their Highnesses Marcus and Margerite, and by the assembled Barons and Baronesses of the Kingdom. Their Majesties rejoiced in welcoming new subjects to adorn Greater Æthelmearc: with the consent of the Midrealm, Brynna Barth and Felineous Wraitheon declared allegiance at Nothern Oaken War Maneuvers; and with the consent of Their Majesties of the East, Don Andrew Blake of Edinburgh and Dona Jeanne Francesca Fitzgerald joined the ranks of the Sylvan Kingdom earlier at War.

Their Majesties sought Ulf Halfdansson to present himself. Worthily impressed with his conduct among the youth fighter community, They did name him a Companion of the Silver Alce. Scroll by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.

Next did Their Majesties invite Dame Hrefna Úlfvarinnsdóttir to attend Them. They noted with gratitude her efforts to ensure that the Kingdom was well represented among the history displays at the Society 50-year Celebration. In recognition of her ingenuity and dedication beyond the call of duty, They awarded to her a Golden Escarbuncle.

Their Majesties called before them Edward McDonald. Their Majesties noted that his service as a herald and fighter are worthy of praise, and have long enhanced his community. To recognize his efforts, They Awarded him Arms. Scroll by Mistress Una de St. Luc.

Elizabeth de Hawkesworth was next summoned to attend Their Majesties. Her service to her house and to the Kingdom, particularly at War Practice, was cited, along with her other qualities, as pleasing to Their Majesties, and as such, They deemed it right and proper to Award her Arms. Scroll by Baroness Rowena Moore, Deryk Balthazar Simmons, and Mistress Maria Christina de Cordoba.  

Next did Their Majesties require the attendance of Hrungnir Hjaldarbjorn. They remarked on his many pursuits, including fighting and the construction of books and other leatherwork. Thus impressed with his efforts, They did Award him Arms. Scroll by Lord Arias Beltran del Valle, Oleksandra Ivanova Baboyka, and Christiana McNamara.

Their Majesties then called forward Isabeau la Fauconniere. Long are the hours of service she has given to her Baron and Baroness, as well as to the organization of her camp. In order that her efforts might be properly acknowledged, Their Majesties bestowed upon her Arms. Scroll by Lady Felice de Thornton.

Their Majesties sought the presence of Nicole of the Ravenswood, but being not in attendance, instead invited Her Excellency, Baroness Sadira of Thescorre, to carry Their words to the lady. Having heard good report and observed her service to her Barony at event registration, in the kitchens, and as autocrat, They Awarded her Arms. Scroll by The Honorable Lady Eleanore Godwin.

Their Majesties next called for Seamus Rogan, but being not in attendance, Their Excellencies Marcus and Desiderata, Baron and Baroness of Delftwood, presented themselves on his behalf. Their Majesties prayed they might carry unto Seamus Their praise and gratitude for his skill and service in the field of archery. They then further signified Their regard by Awarding him Arms. Scroll by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.

Then was Valentine MacLachlan called to attend the Sylvan Throne. In recognition of his skill and dedication to armored combat, Their Majesties inducted him into the Order of the Golden Alce, thereby Awarding him Arms. Scroll by The Honorable Lady Juliana Stafford.

Next, Their Majesties desired to see Lord Rhys of Mylesende. His prowess as a fighter had also reached the notice of the Crown, and was found worthy of praise. Thus did Their Majesties bestow upon him the symbol of the Golden Alce and induct him into that Order. Scroll by Lady Abigail Kelhoge.

Their Majesties next sought Sigurdr Vitskertr and were dismayed to see him not in attendance. Nonetheless, They made note of his exemplary service as exchequer and labor at event registration, and thus determined to recognize these accomplishments with elevation into the Order of the Keystone, further Awarding him Arms. Scroll by Baroness Constance Glyn Dwr.

Following this, Their Majesties welcomed Lord Finar of the South Marche and Signora Celesta Vianello into Their Presence. Both these gentles have given so generously of their time, and for so long, to the service of the Pennsic Information Point, that Their Majesties decreed it only proper and fitting to enroll them both as Companions of the Order of the Keystone. Lord Finar’s scroll by Mistress Gillian Llewellyn; Signora Celesta’s by Master Caleb Reynolds.

The Court next had business with Lady Magge Illfoster. Their Majesties spoke with her of her labors in kitchens and as retaining staff, finding it greatly to be praised. In acknowledgement of these continued acts of service, They named her a Companion of the Order of the Keystone. Scroll by Lord Arias Beltran del Valle, Shoshido Tora, and Thora Riddarsdottir.

Their Majesties called for Lady Logan Latta du Kent, who being not present, was represented by Their Excellencies Magnus and Muriel of the Rhydderich Hael. Their Majesties wished Their Excellencies to convey Their words of approbation for Logan’s support of the rapier community, and also to bring to her the symbol of the Order of the Keystone, of which Their Majesties decreed she now be a Companion.

Next, Their Majesties desired words with Baroness Oddkatla Jonnsdottir and Baron Friderich Schwarzwalder. Their Majesties thanked them for the hard work and organization of the Kingdom Party of the night before, deeming it enjoyable and successful. Baroness Oddkatla requested that an artifact from the party be put to good use. His Majesty then addressed Prince Marcus, saying that there was a rumor His Highness had hurt his arm. Their Majesties presented His Highness with the arm of the Lady of the Lake, clad in purest shimmering samite, to aid His Highness and lend strength to heal his injuries.

Rowena McCara was called before Their Majesties, who took note of her beautiful embroidery, and teaching of the same, in the Roumanian style. In recognition of her skills, They names her a Companion of the Order of the Sycamore. Scroll in progress by Master Jehan de la Marche and The Honorable Lady Ismay Ponde.

Then did Their Majesties wish to be attended by Master Benedict Fergus Atte Mede. Having taken good note of his skill in the art of clothing and leatherwork, particularly in the making of footwear, Their Majesties found merit worthy of a Companion of the Sycamore, and thus deemed it proper to name him so. Scroll by Oliver Sutton.

Next, Their Majesties required Master Augusto Giuseppe de San Donato to present himself before the Court. Of late, Their Majesties have had reason to observe this noble gentle as one of Their Chamberlains, but long have his labors been known to Their Majesties and many others. His service to the Thrown Weapons community, to the Canton of Beau Fleuve, and to the Barony of the Rhydderich Hael have continued to earn renown, and thus were They minded to create him a Baron of Their Court. Scroll by Baroness Rosemund von Glinde. 

Then Their Majesties invited His Grace, Duke Timothy of Arindale to give answer whether he would be elevated into the Most Noble Order of the Pelican. Receiving his reply, They called for that Order to join them and heard words of testimony, beginning with the words of Their Noble Cousin, Gabriel Rex, Stellar King of Ansteorra, who spoke as a representative of the Chivalry. His Majesty Gabriel spoke of the Chivalry as those who heed the call, who answer and do what must be done. While most would be proud to be numbered in this company, His Grace does not answer, but feels the call, finds the needs, goes where the need is, spends his time and life in the service of fulfilling the need of his family, friends, and kingdom, with enthusiasm, dedication, and a cheerful shrug, dragging others behind him in his wake. Her Grace, Gabrielle van Nijenrode, representing the Ladies of the Rose, recalled that she would neither have served as his Queen, nor accepted his proposal on the day they first won, were she not certain he was a man of chivalry. Beyond that, she spoke of the many ways she observed him serving, and the way that he will tell others that his service is expected because he is a knight. He insists that no one will have more fun than he does, and it is this care for and about others that assures her he is worthy of the Pelican. Master Robert of Sugargrove described His Grace’s buoyant enthusiasm as a quality that keeps people playing in the Society, and further revealed that as a craftsman, His Grace made the bronze tip that adorns Master Robert’s own belt. Master Quinn Kerr, of the Order of Defense, recounted the parable of the pilgrim who came across a building site. He asked the builders what they were doing. The first said, “Laying stone,” the second said, “Building a wall,” and the third said, “Building a castle.” In His Grace, Master Quinn is reminded of one who epitomizes the motto, “Not for me, not for you, but for us.” Her Grace, Duchess Isabella of York, Royal Peer and “fifth force of nature,”™ informed the Court that she has known His Grace was a Peer for more than 20 years, since he came to an Eastern event as King, and took off his crown to wash dishes at day’s end, and made sure the tables were clean and put away before he left the site. Following his example, Her Grace said, she could not herself sit the throne of the East and do nothing, and His Grace has the inspiration to get up and make a difference. Lady Antoinette de Lorraine next spoke on behalf of the populace. She reflected on what makes a Pelican, if not a call to duty, and commented that she recalled how at His Grace’s own Coronation, he vacuumed the hall and made a final sweep of the site. She pledged to always remember this behavior and never forget the way in which His Grace inspires many others to look at the angles, take chances, and never let dreams die. Finally, His Grace, Duke Eliahu sent words, read by Her Grace Gabrielle, on behalf of the Order of the Pelican. His Grace cited the enfranchisement that Duke Timothy infuses in others: seeing how to improve something, he leads the effort by invoking others to implement the improvement. His success is magnified by the impact he has on others. Moved by this overwhelming and incontrovertible testimony, Their Majesties called for the ancestral medallion and case. Duchess Gabrielle also presented a personal medallion, and then bedecked him with a hood made by the hand of The Honorable Lady Jacqueline de Molieres. Their Majesties bid His Grace to rise and be greeted as a Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Pelican. Scroll calligraphed by Lord Angelino the Bookmaker, illumination by Lady Elektra of Sylvan Glen.

Their Majesties next brought before Them The Honorable Lady Álfrún ketta. At her assent to join the Most Noble Order of the Laurel, Their Majesties first invited Mistress Mary Isabel of Hearthstone to take back Her Ladyship’s apprentice belt, and then asked the company of Laurels to attend and draw near. Countess Kalista Morganova spoke of the continuing obligation to the kingdom after the Crown passes from one Royal couple to the next. She praised Álfrún’s generosity in placing her knowledge, wisdom, skills, and findings at the disposal not only of the kingdom, but the Society as a whole, in much the same way as a Royal Peer. Duke Timothy returned before the Court to speak as a member of the Order of Chivalry, of the concept of renown. While more common in combat than in Arts and Science, Álfrún’s wordfame has spread far to other Kingdoms: East, Midrealm, and beyond. Her status and the regard of the community of the Known World commend her as a Peer. Master Will Paris read the words of Master Orlando di Bene del Vinta, who described the Order of Defense not only as one of prowess with the sword, but of knowledge of the art and science of the blade, and attested that she has gained mastery, but more importantly, freely shares her knowledge with everyone. Her love for her art is evident and enriches the Society as a whole. Master Morien McBain, as a Pelican, said that he considers himself blessed in life, but that one of the greatest blessings he counts is of this lady’s friendship. He told a tale of their childhood, and a toy knight of Álfrún’s that inspired him to put on armor, creating in him a drive that remains steady to this day. And Mistress Rhiannon y Bwa reiterated Master Morien’s statements about Álfrún’s joy, saying that the Laurels heard tales of Álfrún’s enthusiasm for fiber arts and her boundless capacity to draw others in, her craftiness not only with spindle, loom, and fleece, but in enticing breeders to give up wool from different types of sheep, some of which are unique and unseen in over 50 years of spinning, thus making it clear how she advances her art.

Hearing these testimonies, Their Majesties were well pleased. They called for the symbols of her station: Mistress Mary Isabel bestowed upon her the medallion that had belonged to her own Laurel, a lineage that extends to the Outlands. A wreath was placed upon her head, and the cloak that bedecked her shoulders was the very same that many had woven during the course of her vigil. The fruitcake reliquary was bestowed to her keeping, and she gave her oath of fealty to the Crown. Then Their Majesties bid her rise and join the Noble Order of the Laurel. Scroll a work in progress with wording by Master Fridrikr Tomasson av Knusslig Ham.  

Their Majesties then invited Mistress Irene von Schmetterling to appear before Them and asked whether she were ready to accept the accolade of the Most Noble Order of the Laurel. At her assent, They called for testimony from the assembled Peerages. Duchess Líadain ní Dheirdre Chaomhánaigh praised Mistress Irene for her passion, her fervor, the way she inspires others to action, a powerhouse who finds delight in trying new things, challenging herself and inspiring others to do likewise. Sir Kadan Chákhilgan Ger on Echen made comparison of the seven knightly virtues and seven deadly sins, and the way in which all must combat the latter with the former. In Irene, he saw none of the sins, and every virtue on display. Master Giovanni di Fianna, premier Master of Defense of the Kingdom of Trimaris, spoke of the quality of sprezzatura, the effortless way in which a master displays her talents and vitues. Irene’s love for her art, for the Dream, kindles curiosity, gives her the courage to learn from what does not work, and gives her the quality of sprezzatura, As one who has traded affiliations with her more than once, Master Giovanni remained confident that her love for her art will expand her curiosity, courage, and sprezzatura. Master Fridrikr Tomasson av Knusslig Ham, for the Order of the Pelican, spoke of the boundless, tireless service Irene has given over the years, in every place where she has lived, and that he knew her for a Peer throughout all the time she was a protegée, a herald, an autocrat, and a marshal. Mistress Orianna, also speaking for the Pelicans, added that everything she does is also an act of service–in her fencing, her arts, and everything she practices, she does nothing if not serve. Finally, Mistress Honoria of Thescorre described meeting Irene at her first Pennsic war, and how, shortly afterward, Irene allowed her to stay as if they had been friends for much longer. The relationship that began bloomed from there, as they exchanged arts, as Honoria sent her materials and received back beautiful works. She affirmed that Irene encouraged her when she was not encouraged, and did the same for many others. Irene shares everywhere she goes, making her art blossom and the arts of others blossom as well. Hearing these heartfelt words from worthy representatives, Their Majesties called for regalia that would proclaim her new station to all. Master William de Montegilt placed a medallion around her neck, and Mistress Alison of the Many Isles adorned her shoulders with her cloak bearing the Laurel leaves. Mistress Álfrún ketta brought forward the fruitcake, so long in her possession, and Mistress Irene renewed her oath of service to the Crown. She was then asked to join her new Order. Scroll forthcoming.

Before dismissing the Order of the Laurel, Their Majesties desired one more to come forward and be recognized for his contributions to the Arts. Sir Ian Kennoven represented well the Sylvan Kingdom as another of Their Majesties’ Arts and Sciences Champions, and his work in cooking and particularly the construction of sugar plate subtleties has met with the Order’s approbation, as well as Their Majesties and Their Heirs. Thus he was commanded to present himself to Their Majesties’ Heirs at Their Coronation at Harvest Raid, there to sit vigil and contemplate induction into the Most Noble Order of the Laurel. Scroll by Duchess Líadain ní Dheirdre Chaomhánaigh.

Next, Their Majesties allowed Their Silver Buccle, Kameshima-kyō Zentarō Umakai, time in Their Court to formally invest The Honorable Lady Solveig Throndardottir with the office and mantle of Keystone Herald. Her Ladyship was not dismissed, however, for Their Majesties were not done dispensing justice–in this case, the just and right command that Her Ladyship be taken into the custody of the Most Noble Order of the Laurel, and to sit vigil in the camp of Clan Yama Kaminari on the following day, drinking tea in contemplation of Their Majesties’ question, and thereafter, to give answer in that place whether she would join the august assembly of the Order. Scroll a work in progress by Kameshima-kyō Zentarō Umakai and The Honorable Lady Isabel Fleuretan.

Their Majesties recognized all those who contributed scrolls, medallions, and regalia for those recognized in Court that day, and reminded scribes who had turned in scrolls to come to the Royal encampment for resupply, if they had not already done so. The Coram Regibus was then suspended.

Court resumed on Wednesday, the 10th of August, in the Camp of Clan Yama Kaminari. As recorded by Kameshima-kyō Zentarō Umakai, Silver Buccle Principal Herald:

Their Majesties summoned the young wolf Akayama Yatoru Kage’o. They commented that, though he had begun as but a cub, he had grown strong, with claws and fangs that he launched at targets for the honor of his Barony, and fur that suited his person well. For these reasons, they Awarded him Arms. Scroll in progress by Baroness Juliana Rosalia Dolce di Siena and Tiarna Ard Padraig Ó Branduibh.

Their Majesties noted that there was one who, though not among them, was much deserved of recognition for her prowess both on the fencing field and as a valued member of the Æthelmearc Ballista Army. Thus it was that they announced that The Honorable Lady Elaine Fairchilde had been granted admission into the Order of the Golden Alce. Scroll by Baroness Ekaterina Volkova.

Next, Their Majesties capitalized upon the opportunity presented to Them that They might summon Their Jewel of Æthelmearc Herald, Brehyres Gwendolyn the Graceful, before Them. For they wished to continue speaking of prowess of those who rained death upon Æthelmearc’s enemies with their mighty siege engines, and Gwendolyn had proven herself puissant in the engines of war. So it was that They saw fit to bestow upon her the right to bear the badge of, and proclaim herself a member of, the Order of the Golden Alce. Scroll by Baron Caleb Reynolds.

Noting the great martial prowess for which Yama Kaminari has been known these many years, Their Majesties next sought the presence of Minamoto-roku-i Sakurako, whose skill with the fencing blades had won great honor not only for her, but for her Clan, Barony and Kingdom across the Known World. She was therefore befitted with the badge of the Golden Alce and proclaimed a member of that noble Order. Scroll by Ishiyama Gentarō Yori’ie upon wording by Minamoto-roku-i Taikawa Saiaiko.

Finally, Their Majesties said that They would have The Honorable Lady Solveig Throndardottir before Them. Having sat vigil and contemplated over tea the question before her that day, she answered that yes, she would indeed accept elevation to the Most Noble Order of the Laurel. The present companions of that Order were gathered before Their Majesties. So, too, were all those who bore or had ever borne the title of “Herald,” for her work was so expansive and influential that not a herald present could say that her efforts had not touched them. Duke Sir Christopher Rawlyns bore the words of Count Sir Jehan de la Marche, who spoke of the grace and expertise with which she directed the multiple noh and kyogen performances in which he participated, his admiration for her dedication to education, and stated that she is, without a doubt, worthy of this accolade. Viscount Sir Haakon Oaktall said that though he knows little of art, he knows much of weapons, and knowledge is a weapon that Solveig wields with precision and skill, and that her efforts encourage people to love things that they do not yet know. Duchess Dorinda Courtenay bore the words of Mistress Illadore de Bedegrayne, premier Defender of the West Kingdom, who proclaimed herself in awe of both Solveig’s ability and her tenacity, and wished she could be there to share such a special moment. Master Fridrikr Tomasson av Knusslig Hamn recalled a quarter century past, when he was elevated to the Order of the Pelican, and knew even then that Solveig was worthy of being a Peer; he also recalled his days as Brigantia Principal Herald, when he requested that Solveig write a “little pamphlet” about Japanese names. Mistress Juliana de Luna, Siren Herald and former Pelican Queen of Arms, held aloft a copy of that “little pamphlet,” over 300 pages long, and recalled that for longer than she had been practicing heraldry, Solveig had been there, learning, teaching, and researching; she also talked of Solveig’s research into ceremonies, food, and all other aspects of Japanese culture and declared her a treasure. Their Majesties, being moved by all of these good testimonies, did award unto Solveig Arms by Letters Patent and declared her a Magistra of the Order of the Laurel, presented her with a medallion, a jacket and a wreath as regalia of her new station, and accepted her oath of service as a Peer of the Realm. Finally They granted her a name augmentation and named her 宗阿弥 “Sō’ami.” Scroll by Ogami-sama Akira and Minamoto-roku-i Taikawa Saiaiko.

There being no further business before them at the 45th Pennsic War, the Coram Regibus was closed.

Faithfully Submitted,

Gwendolyn the Graceful, Brehyres

Jewel of Æthelmearc Herald

**Photos courtesy of Gwendolyn the Graceful, Arianna of Wynthrope, Juliana Rosalia Dolce da Siena (Tuesday Court), and Ananias Fenn (buckler)