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Court Report: Pax Interruptus, AS 58

18 Monday Sep 2023

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Here begins the report of the Court of Andreas Morgan and Kallista Morgunova, Second of those names, 50th King and Queen of Æthelmearc at Pax Interruptus held within the Barony of Thescorre, July 8th AS 58. Po Silvertop, Jewel of Æthelmearc Herald reporting, with the assistance of Master Fridrikr and Baroness Amalie, and jorundr hinn rotinn as Silver Buccle and aetherial Herald.

In Morning court:

Their Majesties summoned before them Master Jon Blaecstan, Their Sylvan Signet. They thanked him for his long term of service and bid him relax as his task had reached completion. They then welcomed Mistress Roberta McMoreland and requested she take up the office of Sylvan Signet.

Their Majesties invited Master Caleb and THL Edith to ask if they were still prepared to undergo Elevation. Each affirmed their readiness, and after paying back taxes long in disarray, THL Edith was relieved of her protégé belt by Mistress Cori. Their Majesties then convened the Orders of the Laurel and Pelican and requested the vigilants be escorted to Vigil.

In Evening court:

Their Majesties welcomed all those who attended in the hopes that they had enjoyed the day.

Their Majesties invited the Autocrat, Lady Marguerite de Neufchasteau, to speak about the day and to thank the event staff.

Their Majesties permitted to Duke Ionnes to address the populace about the upcoming Known World Rattan Novice tourney at Pennsic.

Their Majesties invited Their Jewel Herald, Master Po, to thank the Barony of Thescorre for donations of scroll cases for future courts as well as speak to the populace about the need for prizes for the upcoming AE Rapier Novice Tourney at Pennsic.

Their Majesties invited all the newcomers present to come forward. They were given gifts of mugs made by the artisans of the Kingdom.

Their Majesties called forward the youth of the Kingdom present- and then chose Lady Elizabetta as the day’s sacrificial runner of the toychest.

Breneks Zemgale was called before the Crown and for his long service, his incredible knowledge of mushrooms and cooking and history, as well as his abilities on the rattan field, he was awarded an AOA/Golden Alce. Scroll by Cassia Carataca.

Their Majesties requested Lady Gwen Cooke attend them and for her Service as autocrat and as Marshal on multiple fields of combat was inducted into the Order of the Millrind. Scroll by Baron Bobby.

While the Order was convened Their Majesties requested Lord Angus the Bull, and for his skills at motivating and rallying the populace, autocratting, marshaling, retaining, guarding, and other service, was also created a Millrind as well. Scroll by Baroness Amalie Reinhardt.

Baron Andriu mac Domhnaill was then inducted into the Order of the Millrind for his work with the youth of the Kingdom, for his Service as Baron, and not least for his labors in the kitchen. Scroll by Lady Gwen Cooke, words and vocal performance by Baroness Nuzha.

Baron Boris Dragsonsbane was invited forward and for his Service to Barony and Kingdom, for his contributions to the history of Aethelmearc was inducted into the Order of the Millrind. Scroll by Mistress Jenna McPherson and runes by Baron Brother Bobby.

Their Majesties requested Lord Coinneach Mac an Leigh attend them. They spoke of his wondrous ability in crafting beautiful wood projects and inducted him into Their Order of the Fleur d’Aethelmearc. Scroll by Master Caleb Reynolds.

Master Eric Grenier de Labarre (called Grendel) was invited into court. Their Majesties had noted confusion in Baronial Court as Master Eric had been addressed as Don Eric, and thus to reaffirm his Mastery, they presented him with his long-awaited backlog Master of Defense scroll, a boxed MoDule by Lady Kolfinna Jodisardottir with words by Some Guy in a Hat…  Speaking further on his long history of Service to his Barony, the Rapier community, and the Kingdom in general, the Crown also issued to him a Writ to contemplate elevation to the Order of the Pelican. Writ by Master Jon Blaecstan.

Master Caleb Reynolds made a valiant attempt to Herald himself into court for his Elevation. While amusing, it failed and he was escorted back to the rear of the hall.

Their Majesties then welcomed THL Edith of Winterton into court and asked if she was prepared to answer the question posed by her writ. Upon her assent They heard testimony from the Peers of the Kingdom; Mistress Ekat brought words from Mistress Antoinette de la Croix as a Jewel of Aethelmearc, Mistress Lucia De Moranda spoke as Laurel, Sir Sextus Plinius Callidus testified as a member of the Chivalry, and Mistress Cori spoke on behalf of the Order of the Pelican. Pleased with these testimonies, Their Majesties invested Edith with the ancestral medallion, a personal medallion, a Pelican cloak and a cap of maintenance. Thus arrayed, she then made an oath of service and was declared a member of the Order of the Pelican. Scroll by Zosia Kowalewska.

With the generous tolerance of Their Majesties, Master Caleb Reynolds was permitted a second attempt to process into court for his elevation.  Upon his arrival, the Crown demanded to hear from those who might think to speak on his behalf. Mistress Beatrice deWinter spoke as Laurel, Master Po offered words as a Master of Defense, Baroness Katja spoke on behalf of the Order of the Pelican, Duchess Líadain sent words as a Royal Peer, Sir Richard Larmor spoke as a member of the Chivalry, and Mistress Ekat as a Jewel of Aethelmearc. Accepting this evidence, Their Majesties ordered brought forth a  hood and a personal medallion and requested Master Caleb’s Oath, proclaiming him a Laurel of Æthelmearc. Laurel scroll by Sthurrim Caithnes.

Their Majesties requested the presence of Lady Elisabetta de Venetia, and for her sterling service and boundless enthusiasm for both Æthelmearc and our great Dream, made her a Baroness of Their Court. Scroll forthcoming, words and coronet crafted by Mistress Ekaterina.

Their Majesties demanded Master Fridrikr bring his good lady, Mistress Orianna Fridriksona before them to discuss a number of historical questions dealing with the past of the Sylvan Kingdom, upon hearing her responses Their Majesties felt no other response adequate but to choose her as Their Reign’s Jewel of Æthelmearc, the Kingdom’s 53rd. Scroll by Sir Murdoch Bayne.

Her Majesty named Sir Lorimer as Her inspiration for the day, for his continuing encouragement and coordination of dance at events.

Their Majesties invited all Scribes to come forward and receive gifts of appreciation for their efforts.

Their Majesties permitted Their Court Heralds a final performance bow.

Their Majesties thanked all for attending and making the day wonderful, and reminded all that the great War loomed closer on the horizon and entreated all to make preparations.

There being no further business, Court was then closed.

Court Report: A&S Faire/Queen’s Prize Tourney, AS 57

04 Monday Sep 2023

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Here begins the report of the Court of Andreas Morgan and Kallista Morgunova, Second of those names, 50th King and Queen of Æthelmearc at A&S Faire and Queen’s Prize Tourney held within the Shire of Nithgaard, April 29th AS 57. Po Silvertop, Jewel of Æthelmearc Herald reporting, with the assistance of Baroness Miriel du Lac and Baron Salvadore De La Torres.

Their Majesties welcomed all those who attended and bade them enjoy the day.

Their Majesties invited all the newcomers present to come forward. They were given gifts of mugs made by the artisans of the Kingdom.

Their Majesties called forward the youth of the Kingdom present- and then chose Simon as the day’s sacrificial “runner of the toychest.”

Their Majesties requested the presence of the Autocrat, Baroness Elena de la Palma who thanked everyone for coming and thanked her staff for assisting in making the event happen.

Master Hrólfr Á Fjárfelli was invited before the Throne to conduct the Sponsors presentations to the competing Artisans.  Master Hrolf announced the populace choice/ballot winners: Baron Snorri and Baroness Oddkatla. Their Majesties revealed Their chosen Artisan was Lady Avatorria.

Their Majesties permitted the approach of Master Caleb Reynolds, who had requested the opportunity to renew his oath of fealty, upon doing so Their Majesties asked him about his “Mad Cheese Research” and suggested that for that research (amongst numerous other research) he might sit vigil and contemplate Elevation to the Order of the Laurel. Writ by Mistress Sophie Davenport upon a text by Master Caleb (unknowingly) himself, with revisions by Some Guy in a Hat.

Master Madoc Arundel was invited before the court to discuss the brewing competition. He spoke at length about the artistry and enjoyment of the competition and declared Master Robert of Ferness to have been the winner and thus the Kingdom’s first brewing champion.  Master Robert was invited to join Their Majesties’ court.  Their Majesties also complimented Master Madoc for his long years of service in multiple ways to the Kingdom, and invited him to chose a date to sit vigil and contemplate Elevation to the Order of the Pelican.  Writ by Master Kieran.

Their Majesties noted that Lady Aurelie of Nithgaard had recently celebrated a birthday and invited her into court to receive a cupcake and a rousing rendition of the birthday song, performed not only by the entire court, but specifically by the Order of the Fleur d’Æthelmearc to which Their Majesties then inducted her for her incredible skill with fabric, thread and needle. Scroll by Lady Murdia Drusilla Vettia Portia, upon a text by Baroness Nuzha bint Saleem.

Their Majesties invited Mistress Phiala O’Ceallaigh to appear before them to discuss a developing issue with her apprentice THL Oribe Tsukime; to whit, that the Honorable Lady had not only learned all that Mistress Phiala could teach her, but had gone on to continue beyond that point in the research of all things Japanese.  After hearing this, Their Majesties invited forward the Order of the Laurel and issued a writ for the Honorable Lady to choose a day to sit vigil and contemplate elevation. Writ by Dame Zosia.

THL Cassiano de Castello was invited into court to discuss additional aspects of the Kingdom’s brewing community and upcoming brewing competition opportunities.

Their Majesties invited all Scribes to come forward and receive gifts of appreciation for their efforts.

Their Majesties also invited all Heralds to come forward and be recognized for their service to the Kingdom.  After thanking those Heralds present, Their Majesties requested  one remain behind: THL Edith of Winterton. The Crown spoke at length of her Service to the heraldic community and to the Kingdom, as well as her labors as Tollner and Exchequer, requested that she meet with the Order of the Pelican and contemplate Elevation at a future date. First scroll by Christofano upon words by Mistress Sadira, second scroll by Baroness Amalie Reinhardt.

Her Majesty then spoke of the difficulties of parenting solo at events and named  Baroness Antoinette de Lorraine as Her inspiration for the day.

Their Majesties thanked all for attending and making the day wonderful.

Jewel Herald put forth a request for donations of scroll cases.

Here closes the court report…

Court Report: Bog 3 Day AS 58

28 Monday Aug 2023

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Here begins the report of the Court of Andreas Morgan and Kallista Morgunova, Second of those names, 50th King and Queen of Æthelmearc at Bog 3 Day held within the Barony of St Swithins Bog, July 15th AS 58. Po Silvertop, Jewel of Æthelmearc Herald reporting, with the assistance of Lady Siobhan Readnait and Lord Niall mac Raedwulf as Ætherial Herald.

In Morning Court:

Their Majesties were welcomed by the Their Excellencies of the Barony of St Swithins Bog.

Lord Arvik Hyttoinen was called before the Crown, who complimented him on his many years of service in numerous offices. Their Majesties then called for the Order of the Millrind and granted him inclusion into it.  Scroll by Dame Ursula of Rouen.

Their Majesties summoned Their Highnesses Gareth and Juliana to ask if they were still prepared to undergo Elevation. They then convened the Order of the Pelican and requested they be escorted to Vigil.

In Evening Court:

Their Majesties requested the presence of THL Abdul Ishkhan Al-Rashid and for his generosity and artistry declared him, via edict, the official Sylvan Barista of Æthelmearc.

Their Majesties then gave leave for Their Excellencies of St Swithins Bog to hold Baronial Court.

Upon the resumption of Kingdom Court, afterwards:

Their Majesties welcomed all those who attended in the hopes that they had enjoyed the day.

Their Majesties allowed time for Duke Timothy to speak to the populace about armor maintenance and inspections for the coming War.

Their Majesties invited all the newcomers present to come forward. They were given gifts of mugs made by the artisans of the Kingdom.

Their Majesties called forward the youth of the Kingdom present- and then chose Abby as the day’s sacrificial runner of the toychest.

Beatrice Thistilthwayt was called before the Crown and for her years of service as chronicler and for her classes, was awarded Arms. Scroll by Lady Marsaili Mac Lochlainn, words by Some Guy in a Hat.

Their Majesties requested conversation with Lord Eli Boddenham, discussing their prowess both on and off the field as well as their assistance to others. For such were they awarded a Golden Alce. Scroll by Lady Elizabeth Rosamond & Lady Rachelle l’ymagiere.

Their Majesties saw the need to recognize Lord Julius Gautieri for numerous acts of service, both to the Kingdom and to the College of Arx Collis, inducting him into the Order of the Keystone. Scroll by Lady Marsaili Mac Lochlainn, words by Master Cyrus Augur & Some Guy in a Hat.

Lady Cristina Aurelia Vitelli was invited to appear before the Crown, who remarked upon the many stories They had heard; banners created and shields painted, people assisted — and therefore inducted her into the Order of the Keystone. Scroll by Cassia Carataca.

For his continuing abilities brewing and making mead, THL Maddoc MacRoyri was called before the Crown and awarded a Sycamore. Scroll by THL Cassiano da Castello.

Lady Rachelle L’ymagiere was awarded a Sycamore by Their Majesties for her wonderful scribal accomplishments. Scroll by the Bog scribes.

Their Majesties invited Lord Battista di Lupo Speranza into court, and for his many years as exchequer and tollner was inducted into the Order of the Millrind. Scroll by THL Rachel Delacroix& Mistress Cynthia Love of Tower.

The presence of Baroness Antoinette DeLorraine was requested by the Crown. Her Majesty spoke at length of Her appreciation for those who selflessly sacrifice their own time and effort, even putting aside their own enjoyment and advancement so that others might participate in our Great Dream. For those generous individuals a new award is being created, the Award of Distinction for Caretakers — and Baroness Antionette was chosen to be the Principal of the award. Scroll by Lady Marsaili Mac Lochlainn, words by Lady Kolfina Jodisardottir & Some Guy in a Hat.

For both his ever-present jovial nature and his caring for those around him, making sure people not only are enjoying themselves, but are doing so carefully and responsibly, Master Jacob Martinson was awarded a Howling’s Wolf.  Scroll by Mistress Mairghread & Lady Rachelle l’ymagiere.

Their Majesties begged the company of HRH Juliana Delamere, in hopes she was ready to respond to her writ for elevation to the Order of the  Pelican.  Requesting the testimony of the Peers of the Kingdom, the Crown heard from Masters Jacob and Po as Masters of Defense, Baroness Elisabeth Johanna von Flossenburg spoke as a member of the Laurel, Duchess Anna Leigh spoke as a Rose, His Highness Gareth as a member of the Chivalry, Dame Ursula of Rouen as a Pelican, and Baron Christian Goldenlok as a member of the populace. Satisfied with these words, Their Majesties presented her with the regalia of her new station; a cloak and hood, the Kingdom’s ancestral Pelican medallion, the household ancestral medallion, and finally a personal medallion. Upon hearing her oath of Service, she was then declared a Pelican of Æthelmearc. Scroll by THL Sasson de Sancta Victoria & Lady Ylaire Sainte Claire.

Their Majesties then invited HRH Gareth Kincaid to similarly consult with him upon his own readiness to be elevated to the Order of the Pelican. Count Jehan spoke as Royal Peer,  Her Highness Juliana as a member of the Rose, Sir Oliver Sutton spoke as a member of the Chivalry, Mistress Shirin as a Laurel, Duke Timothy as a Pelican, and Baroness Elisabeth Johanna von Flossenburg as a Jewel of Æthelmearc. Following these testimonies, Their Majesties called for a cloak, and His Highness received (from Her Highness) the Kingdom ancestral Pelican medallion, the household ancestral medallion, and finally a personal medallion. His Highness then professed his oath of Service and was declared a Pelican of Æthelmearc.  Scroll by THL Angellino the Bookmaker.

Their Majesties demanded the attendance of THL Bera of Tavistland, and for her many years of service as shire seneschal and numerous other pivotal offices, created her a Baroness of Their Court. Scroll by Master Caoinleán Seanchaidh AKA Tower & Mistress Vivienne Marie de Beauvais. Coronet crafted by Baroness Glenis Gwynedd of Atlantia.

Their Majesties then invited Lord Mikael ibn Mehlem ibn Yusuf al-Uqlidsi before them. Speaking of his notable prowess upon the rattan field, as well as his reputation as a teacher, they inducted him into Their Order of the Gage. (Scroll forthcoming.)

Mistress Gabrielle Winter was invited into court, where Their Majesties spoke of her passion for Service, both locally as well as Kingdom-wide. They spoke of numerous projects she had accomplished, including Their own recent Coronation. In recognition of those labors, the Crown bestowed an Æthelmearc Award of Excellence upon her. Scroll by Lady Rachelle l’ymagiere.

Their Majesties invited all Scribes to come forward and receive gifts of appreciation for their efforts.

Their Majesties thanked all for attending and making the day wonderful, and reminded all that the great War loomed closer on the horizon and entreated all to make preparations.

There being no further business, Court was then closed.

Court Report Sylvan Glen Twelfth Night 1/7 AS 57

30 Sunday Apr 2023

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Here begins the Report of the Court of Arnthor and Ceirech, King and Queen of Æthelmearc, at the Sylvan Glen Twelfth Night Celebration, January 7 AS 57, joined by Their Heirs Andreas and Kallista, jorundr hinn rotinn, Silver Buccle Herald, reporting.

Their Majesties called for Bruno and made him carry the Kingdom toy chest to lead the youth of the Kingdom to choose a toy.

Their Majesties called for all the newcomers, welcomed them, and gifted them mugs.

Their Majesties allowed Dame Hrefna Úlfvarinnsdóttir, the autocrat to address the populace. She wished to thank everyone for attending. The Shire of Sylvan Glen presented their tribute to Their Majesties and Their Highnesses and presented a gift to their site liaison Lady Berengaria of Leighton Buzzard to thank her for her work for the group.

Their Majesties called for Marsalli Mac Lochlainn. Her skill in fencing and her willingness to travel to learn and challenge herself pleased Their Majesties, and so They Awarded her Arms. Scroll illuminated by Tiberious Hostilious Malous, with calligraphy by Juliana Delamere.Their Majesties summoned Lodovica. She had made garb, her pictures of events bring joy to many, and she has donated fabric for her local group to use. These are all good things, and Their Majesties felt moved to recognize these acts of nobility by Awarding her Arms. Scroll by Juliana Delamere.Lord Eoghan of Ferns was next called before Their Majesties. He was Awarded Arms by Gareth and Juliana, but was not present that day, so Their Majesties wished to take a moment and thank him for everything he did and welcome him to the ranks of nobility.Their Majesties called for Mistress Alfrun Ketta. Her kindness and courtesy are an inspiration to all, and her crusade against stinky kittens is inspirational. For this Their Majesties inducted her into the Order of the Cornelian. Scroll by Juliana Delamere.Her Majesty named Master Morien MacBain as her inspiration for the day.

Their Majesties thanked everyone for attending.

Court closed.

Dark Ages Skóla A&S Display and Youth A&S Tournament

10 Tuesday Oct 2017

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By THL Elska á Fjárfelli

As part of its focus on the the Arts & Sciences, the Dark Ages Skóla (organized by the Dominion of Myrkfaelinn) also hosted both a Dark Ages-themed A&S Display and an unthemed Youth A&S Tournament. Both displays were situated in the main hall and enjoyed many visitors throughout the day. Thank you all for participating, and we’re looking forward to seeing what you’ll come with next!

Entries in the A&S Display:

Hedeby shoes. All photos by Elska

  • Hedeby shoes for a youth by Abigaile Kelloge.

Abigaile writes: “The Hedeby shoes are based on a boot found in the excavation of that Norse settlement, 8th to 11th century Germany. They are similar to boots located in the Viking ship Museum in Oslo, which were grave goods from a ship burial of around 900 CE. This pair of kid’s shoes is based on a pattern from the Internet and are made from lightweight leather, handsewn with waxed nylon thread, with a machine sewn wool insole for comfort.” She did not anticipate how well loved the shoes would be come in the few weeks between events and when he’ll outgrow them, so she did not decorate the edges.

Trousers

  • Thorsberg Trousers, machine sewn from a repurposed cotton duvet cover,  by Erin Pence.

 

  • Vierpass Beaker (four-spouted beaker) stoneware by Algirdas Wolthus.

Beaker

Algirdas comments: “Modeled on examples excavated from a tavern in Nuremberg, dated to c. 1400 to 1425. Published by the German National Museum “Aus dem Wirtshaus zum Wilden Man”, 1983.” He made several of these beakers and often uses them in his feast fear.

  • Machine-embroidery samples in preparation for a medieval silk outfit, by Aldeeza Wolthus.

Embroidery

The Youth A&S Tournament had six entries (yes, there were more kids entries than adult A&S entries, shame on you!):

  • Katriona Iainsdottir entered a leather cover book with handmade paper inside.
  • Cornelia entered an inkle woven shoulder strap made of gold and black.
  • Sungiva entered an inkle woven belt, and a second one she was working on.
  • Simon entered an illumination on parchment he was working on.
  •  Konrad entered a weaving he is working on.
  •  Galen entered a macrame bracelet he was working on.

Konrad showing off his weaving on his Cricket loom to Mistress Rhiannon.

Master Bedwyr Danwyn and Mistress Rhiannon y Bwa undertook the difficult task of coming to some sort of order in which the entrants could choose their price. Taking their task very seriously, they talked with each entrant while watched by an eager flock of kids, making sure to note each accomplishment while also gently teaching a trick or two to help their project grow.

Master Bedwyr demonstrating smudge free illuminating.

The concentration the gathered children exhibited while Master Bedwyr demonstrated to Simon how to prevent edge smudgings on his calligraphy by covering up exposed edges with a piece of paper was mesmerizing, and the eagerness everyone followed Mistress Rhiannon into the kitchen to do a burn test to learn if the yarn used to weave with was natural wool, or not, when Konrad could not tell one way or the other, was truly inspiring!

Cornelia showing of her entry to her sister Marie of Hartford and her friend Emma Wolthus.

In the end, Cornelia won first pick with her inkle woven rabbit skin pouch strap, made with polyester gold thread. The rest of the kids quickly gobbled up the remainder prizes (there are never enough swords, we adults learned) and a good time was had by all. I overheard talk about what project to work on next and thought, what a great experience this was to inspire A&S into our new generation.

Harvest Raids, the Making of Knights, and the Bonds We Share

03 Tuesday Oct 2017

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By Lord Christian Goldenlok

Sir Thorsol is knighted. Photos by Baron Steffan.

In relation to each other, the rubber band of geographical life is made from unequal parts time and distance. When it stretches, all too often we have too much distance between us and not enough time to spend when we are together.

The opposite is also true. While it’s nice to visit with old friends around the fire, hearts become restless to look out to the horizon and build bonds away from home. In a perfect world, we could all live within walking distance. Until then, we have to use our time effectively. I am terrible at time management, mostly because I spent half my raids hugging people. It’s a rough life.

At Court at Harvest Raids, an Æthelmearc event in Western New York, my King and Queen made the first set of knights of their reign. Two men were presented, two men with whom I have very different relationships.

The first man to be brought forth was His Lordship Thorsol Solinauga. The Thorsol and I have been friends for years. He sought me out from the VERY beginning of my journey and has never once not made me feel welcomed at an event. He is either a saint or an incredible actor.  We have fought against and beside one another, and we have shared laughter, a love for this society, and many good conversations and will continue to do so. Thorsol is a popular man and inspired me to strive to build up people outside of the household and shire that I could love.

I have always measured my goodness based on his example. He is the gauge of inclusiveness to which I try to measure up. I have never heard him raise his voice in anger. Besides his deeds on the battlefield, I am sure that his diplomacy is something others should emulate. He can and will out-humble you. He is a dirty hippie. Sir Thorsol was the first man my King knighted. He is absolutely worthy of the station.

If he lived in Pittsburgh, we would throw pottery together, sing and play guitar together, or play boardgames together. He would be a part of my life because I would make him do so whether he wanted to or not. I love The Thorsol, and the beauty of the words spoken for him by friends I also know told me what I already knew for years: that many people are joined with me in sharing in my love for him. Thorsol spoke words of fealty on the Sword of State, he received his last unanswered blow from King Gareth, and he made his way, humbly and happily, to be with his new Chivalric brothers.

His ceremony was fantastic, and I wept happy, ugly tears for my friend, a man I wish I had more time with and less space away from. My house is a Bon Jovi-free zone.

After Sir Thorsol got the hell out of the way (Thorsol, GIT!), the crown proceeded to its next point of business and called forth Baron Dominic I-don’t-even-know-his-last-SCAdian-name. (Editor’s Note: Morland)

Sir Dominic is knighted.

 

Down the isle processed a handsome man with his beautiful wife whom I can’t recall I’ve ever met. As he and his retinue processed I thought to myself, “I don’t know her, nope, don’t know that guy, nope not him, nope don’t know her.”

The stranger knelt before my King and Queen, the King and Queen I know better than ANY other SCAdians, are masters of the fighting house to which I belong, and with whom I have spent countless hours. As the seconds passed, dichotomies between Dominic and Thorsol and the differences in my familiarity with the Royals and my familiarity with Baron Dominic began shooting through my mind.

As the introductory words were spoken, I searched my memory and couldn’t remember a time I had ever interacted with this man save a handshake or two, maybe a pat on the back in passing. Dominic and I have NEVER had the opportunity to sit and talk together. Earlier, as I had passed his vigil tent, I actually couldn’t recall any of the people who were standing guard for him or in that general vicinity. I’m Christian (expletive) Goldenlok and I know everybody… yet an entire group of people were unintentionally foreign to me.

Dominic’s heraldry is stunning, however.

To my delight, as the moments went on, I started to become slowly, intensely connected to these people, the man being knighted, and the ceremony.

Other people I didn’t know stood before the crown and offered their endorsements of Dominic. I started to feel a connection between their love for this man in relation to my love for the people that I hold dear. Tears streamed down the faces of many friends of Dominic, the majority of whom I have never become acquainted.

I began to feel the spirit of reverence that emanated through the ceremony. Words like honor, mental toughness, and graciousness poured out of the mouths of his friends, and I began to see that the same kinship that exists between me and Sir Thorsol absolutely exists between these fine people and their fine friend and brother, Dominic.

He began to tremble while kneeling before Their Majesties. You could visually comprehend that all his sacrifice, all his time spent in harness, all his time serving his friends, family, and the kingdom he calls home were about to manifest into becoming a Knight of Æthelmearc. He was aware of all this and, I imagine, was reacting to it. I empathized with the weight he was feeling. You could see he was humbled at being exulted by his friends. His dream, and the dreams and hopes and expectations others had of him, seemed to turn into a heartfelt, tangible reality with every word that filled the hall of that great Court. With the mounting of spurs, the clasp of cloak, and the fitting of the belt, he was being reworked, remade.

And then I started freaking ugly crying.

 

With so much strife in the modern world, it isn’t surprising that we occasionally need to be reminded that there is so much positivity and so much commonality that transcends the boundaries of time and distance in the SCA. As we struggle, as we toil in the fields, we must be reminded that there will come a time for harvest because of our collective dedication. It was obvious to me that many placed stones for Sir Dominic to walk on in his path to knighthood, and it was truly inspiring to see the love his friends showed him.

 

In closing, we must learn to become even more inclusive, to become even more open and honest and caring, and to realize that there is so much love in this world to be seen if only we fix our collective eyes to see it. I felt that love for you, Sir Dominic, and I hope we have time in the future. I’m grateful for both of these men, their separate retinues, their relation to us all, and their example to me.

 

Harvest Raids was fantastic!

Pennsic 46: Annual A&S Display

25 Monday Sep 2017

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By THL Elska á Fjárfelli

Hannah’s art at the Display. All photos by Elska.

August 6 marked the 20th annual display of the talents and knowledge of the Known World’s artisans and craftspeople at the Pennsic War.

As in previous years, the variety and scope of work was amazing! From the tiny beaded flowers by Lady B’Gen van der Sterren of the Middle Kingdom, the intricately detailed Elsa snowflake jewelry box by Fredis Sjona of the Kingdom of Atlantia, and the delectably edible sugarpaste playing cards by Baroness Tatiana Ivanovna, if you could not make it to this years’ display, make sure to mark it down for next year!

While the A&S Display is not a competition, this year’s display also featured A&S consultation tables. Each entrant could voluntarily request feedback from practiced judges to help prepare for the higher degree of expectations that happen at more competitive levels. Even if an artisan does not plan on entering competitions, they may use these tables as great opportunities for low-key constructive feedback.

Because of several conflicting meetings, I only had a few hours to sit at my display and capture the work of my fellow artisans. While I always intend to immortalize all present, my excuses beforehand to the few I might have missed… From my documentation it seems that from the 70+ entries the Kingdom of the East had the most artisans, with a whopping 23 displays. The East was followed loosely by Atlantia and the Middle, with 11 artisans each, then Æthelmearc with nine, and a handful of dedicated Northshield, West, Ealdormere, Meridies, and Calontir artisans.

I met the following Æthelmearc artisans at the Display and enjoyed their works of art. Thank you all so much for sharing!

  • The Goldhaube Project by Freiherrin Helena Mutzhasen
  • Embroidery by Mistress Gillian Llywelyn
  • Illustration and The Memento Mori by Hannah (Youth)
  • Pick your Poison & The Hand of Glory by Lady Maggie Rue
  • Illumination by THL Mary Elizabeth Clason
  • Gems of the Cheapside Horde by Brahen Lapidario
  • Lampwork Beads by Lady Aranwen verch Rys ap Gwaiter
  • Tablet Weave warp weighted weaving by Lord Hrolfr á Fjárfelli
  • Alumen faecis, a most unusual Medieval ingredient by THL Elska á Fjárfelli

The A&S Display is an amazing spectacle of artistic talents and scientific skills. As the display is not a competition, it is possible to bring completed items as well as works-in-progress, research, and discussion material so that you may share, inspire, and enrich our Society. This way we can all see what others in our field are working on, discover a new passion, make new contacts, and most importantly, have fun! And maybe for next year, why don’t we try to show up those Easterners…

Event Report: Cast Iron Chef III (at Shoot in the Wildwood)

19 Tuesday Sep 2017

Posted by in Arts & Sciences, Cooking, Event Reports, Food

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By Elska á Fjárfelli, of the Dominion of Myrkfaelinn (Susan Verberg)

Come for the pointy projectiles! Stay for the fabulous food!

Accurately described by co-organizer THL Lijsbet de Keukere, Delftwood hosted its third annual Cast Iron Chef Cooking Tournament on September 3 as part of the barony’s archery event A Shoot in the Wildwood.

The cooking trench at Cast Iron Chef cooking tourney III, with in the foreground the oven Algirdas scratch built.  All photography by Elska.

Each year brings a new challenge, and this year Lijsbet and Lord Sebastian Mora challenged the archers to shoot their best royal round on behalf of the cooks for first pick of their coveted Mystery Baskets. The baskets varied in theme, each one contained high-quality, valuable ingredients… and all had to be used in some way or another to create the best three-dish meal.

To supplement the Mystery Basket, the pantry had been bountifully stocked with pantry staples common for the average medieval household: beans, grains, common garden vegetables, simple dairy products, and foraged goods.

With these building blocks the teams, consisting of no more than a head cook, one assistant, and one archer, were charged to make a plausibly medieval meal over the communal open fire for the judges to sample. Following the format of the past three years, all tournament cooking had to be done on site during the designated tournament time of three hours, and no food brought in from off site could be used. While most cooks brought their own copious amounts of cast iron cook wares, for the cook in sudden need loaner pots & pans were available. Occasionally, the judges would make their rounds, and even though they were not supposed to direct, it was totally fine to ask questions…

While I tried my best to compile as complete a picture as possible, I was distracted by cooking, and the Book of Faces wasn’t as enlightening as hoped… my advanced apologies to anyone I might have missed!

And without further ado, let’s introduce our cast iron teams!

Kiera and her menu.

Kiera MacLeod had archer Edward Harbinger shoot her the East Kingdom Basket, which included barley, asparagus, rosewater, cherries, turnips, and rump roast.

Ciaran & Wynn’s meal.

Algirdas and Aldanza.

Ciaran & Wynn choose the Butcher’s Basket, which included an intriguing collection of pork necks, pork hocks, and chuck steak.

Meadbh and Elska’s menu.

Meadbh ni Clerigh, assisted by me, had her daughter Mary of Hartford shoot us the Sweet & Savory Basket;  Mary shot the overall highest score. This basket included walnuts, dried figs, dried prunes, dried apricots, dried dates, and dried cherries with chuck steak.

Matheus & Katherine’s entry.

Matheus Hundamaðr, assisted by Katharine Thorne, had archer Snorri sketi Bjornsson shoot them the Perrote Basket. This basket included parsnips, lentils, chickpeas, turnips, chives, peach sauce, and pork shoulder.

Thirteen-year-old Morgan Littlejohn, assisted by her father Fearghus macEoin Littlejohn, had archer Siobhan shoot them the Farmer’s Basket. This basket included gruyere, parmesan, turnips, leeks, celeriac, apples, pears, asparagus, and chicken.

Algirdas Wolfus, assisted by Aldanza Wolfus, had archer Robert of Furness shoot them the Delftwood Basket. This basket included eggs, apples, olive oil, honey mustard, dates, and chicken.

 

Fearghus and Morgan.

While the highest scoring archer gave her team first pick of the Mystery Baskets, the organizers then threw in a nice curve ball by reversing the order of who went shopping first in the Pantry! Did I overhear one cook thank his archer for having been a lousy shot…?

What did we end up making?

Matheus & Katharine made a “Norse Meal in Miklagård” with a menu of:

  • Grikkland Grautr: a pottage of red lentils, rice, chickpea, parsnips, onion, garlic, butter, cumin, and celery seed, garnished with shaved radish and chives.
  • Pork in the way of Serkland: pork, rubbed with rosemary infused olive oil, crushed long pepper, salt, coriander, cumin, and turmeric, seared then stewed with verjuice and dried figs, finished with fresh figs.
  • Sœtrbröd: whole wheat and ground walnut pancake, spiced with mace, nutmeg, and ginger, topped with peach preserves, butter, cooked apricots, and roasted walnuts.

The menu of Morgan & Fearghus included:

  • Chicken and vegetable stew.
  • Stuffed roasted apples and pears, decorated with edible flowers.
  • Asparagus with parmesan.

Algirdas & Aldanza’s menu offered, with little flags following the French style:

  • Vegetable and cheese egg tart.
  • Apple and carrot salad (garnished with fig and almonds).
  • Chicken bruet with mustard sauce in a leaf of egg.
  • Sage water.
  • Date and apple tart.

Meadbh & Elska made a 14th century Anglo-Saxon meal with:

  • Kidney and Steak stew with dates and apricots.
  • Savory custard pie with eggs, soft cheese, pears, dates and almonds
  • Barley with raisins and shaved almonds.
  • Cherry and almond pie.
  • Bread pudding with dates and figs.
  • Sage water for hand washing.

Ciaran & Wynn’s hearty menu was:

  • Pig knuckle and barley pottage.
  • Pork hock pottage.
  • Grilled vegetables & steak.
  • Rehomogenized milk.

Finally, Kiera’s menu included:

  • Grilled chicken with cherry sauce
  • Chicken & barley pottage
  • Grilled asparagus
  • Marzipan-filled dates.

The winners of the third Cast Iron Chef cooking competition, with the competition organizers.

In the end? We were all so excited and hungry for our own food that we were waiting for the judges to move along, so we could go enjoy ourselves! And not just us, there were quite a few bystanders with empty plates, waiting for the word to dig in…

For me, this was the first time cooking multiple dishes over open fire, and am I glad I brought all my cast iron pots & pans, we used every single one! It was a wonderful experience, not competitive at all. There was many a time where someone exclaimed for some sugar/cinnamon/flour and it would instantly appear from another cook’s station. We loaned out gear as needed and kept and eye on all that was cooking. I do not think I would have done anything different, and hope to be able to participate again next year! Thank you, Lijsbet and Sebastian for organizing, again, this wonderful event. A big thank you to all the volunteers and donors of wonderful foodstuffs, thanks to you the pantry was glorious! Thank you to our judges for your constructive help and feedback. It made for a most wonderful outdoor experience. All in all, I hardly even noticed the rain.

And now for the results we’ve all been waiting for…

While being able to make something wonderful out of pig’s knuckles and hocks is a worthy deed indeed, the Baroness felt she was most impressed by 13-year-old Morgan and her third time entering this competition successfully, thereby Morgan  and her dad Fearghus were the Baroness’s pick.

Playing to the crowd by bringing Delftwood and Kingdom regalia – and choosing the Delftwood Basket – the Baron was not able to overcome all this Delftwood splendor and picked team Algirdas & Aldanza Wolfus as the Baron’s choice. But don’t think that was all! Algirdas built a completely functional on-site oven as well, and the two of them walked away victorious as the Ultimate Cast Iron Chefs! Vivat!

For many more pictures of the A.S.52 Cast Iron Chef, see John Michael Thorpe’s photos here and JJ Art and Photography’s here.

 

For more information about this awesome Tournament, see here.

 

 

Shire of Hunters Home- Demo Report

22 Saturday Jul 2017

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On July 1st, the Shire of Hunters Home met for a day of fighting in Venango County. First we offered a fighting demo for the Utica Festival Days, offering the audience a chance to pick their heroes and receiving free snow cones when their fighters won.

Later that afternoon, the Shire participated in Franklin’s Independence Day Parade, themed “Fairytales and Fantasy”. Franklin may have expected a normal march down their main drag known as Liberty Street, but what they got was a series of fighting bouts, with a melee topping the excitement. The crowds went wild and the fighters made it look good. To top off a great day the Shire won third Place for best presentation!

Maggie Rue

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Duchess Morgen Receives Writ for Chivalry

25 Saturday Mar 2017

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Photo by Master Liam.

Maighstir Liam macan tSaoire reports that Duchess Morgen of Rye received a Writ of Summons to the Order of Chivalry today at The Donnan Party. Her vigil and elevation will be held at Ice Dragon.

Vivat Duchess Morgen!

Once elevated, she and Baroness Beatrix Krieger (who received her writ at Ædult Swim for elevation at Pennsic) will be the fourth and fifth female knights recognized in Æthelmearc, joining Duchess Sir Rowan de la Garnison, Countess Sir Ariella of Thornbury, and Mistress Sir Cunen Beornhelm.

Written by Baroness Katja Davidova Orlova Khazarina (Chris Adler-France)