EVENT REPORT: Agincourt, October 17, A.S. L, Barony-Marche of the Debatable Lands

24 Saturday Oct 2015

Posted by aethgazette in Archery, Arts & Sciences, Combat Archery, Event Reports, Fencing, Heavy List, Thrown Weapons, Youth combat

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Agincourt, archery, Arts & Sciences, combat archery, Courts, Debatable Lands, Event Reports, fencing, Heavy List, thrown weapons, Youth combat

This report was compiled by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope with assistance from O’no Kuma, Maistir Brandubh o Donnghaile, Master Alaric MacConall, Lady Katheryne Täntzel, Lord Robert MacEwin of Thornhill, Lady Melodia Beaupel, and Lord Robert Pour Maintenant.

Though the sun played peekaboo through clouds that brought intermittent cold winds and even the occasional tiny snowflake, the 600^th anniversary of the Battle of Agincourt proved more fun for the folk of Æthelmearc than it did for the French on that fateful day in October, 1415.

The morning started with the Court of the Imperator, Magnus Tindal, in which he bade THLord Morien MacBain set himself on vigil, there to receive the counsel of the peers and populace regarding his elevation to the Order of the Pelicans.

TOYS FOR TOTS TOURNEY

Martial activities began with the Toys for Tots charity tournament organized by Brillo el Dragon for his high school senior project. 15 fighters participated in a bear pit tournament that lasted almost 2 hours, contributing toys and cash to the charity. Sir Vladimir Mechnik, known as Sir Vlad Two Swords, was the victor, but the children who will received Christmas gifts as a result of the tournament will be the true winners.

The Toys for Tots Tourney. Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.

YOUTH CHAMPION’S TOURNEY

At the same time, Their Excellencies Liam and Constance presided over their Youth Combat Champions’ Tournament, which had five young gentles similarly competing in a bear pit for the right to be named baronial champion.

Their Excellencies address the youth fighters. Photo by Arianna.

In addition to receiving points for winning and losing bouts, the fighters had the opportunity to receive bonus points from the Baron, Baroness, and Marshals for chivalry, sportsmanship, and feats of valor or humor. This resulted in not only many points of honor, but also some entertainingly dramatic deaths and a fair number of quotes from Monty Python. His Majesty stopped by and commended the youth fighters for their prowess and camaraderie. He also bestowed upon the newest youth fighter, Danny, a mug in appreciation of Danny’s skill in the Kingdom Youth Championship Tournament held the previous week at Crown Tournament. In the end, Ulfr, who had just stepped down as kingdom champion a week before, was the winner and named Baronial Youth Champion.

Ulfr vs. Danny in the Baronial Youth Combat Champion’s Tourney. Photo by Arianna.

FENCING

Once the youth fighters left the field to hold tavern brawl melees at the picnic tables on the other side of the feast hall, the fencers took the list.

For the dozen or so rapier combatants, Lord Cyrus Augur ran a round robin tournament with each round being best of three fights using progressive weapons forms: single sword, sword and parry object (or just sword), and then two weapons. Master Will Parris was the victor.

THLady Fiora vs. Lord Balan. Photo by Arianna.

After the tourney, there were melees, including a free-for-all called Paranoia. Fencers who were killed were out of the melee until the fencer who had killed them was also killed.

Lady Lucia vs. Lord Michael Gladewyne. Photo by Arianna.

THROWN WEAPONS

After a tasty lunch crafted by Lord Takamatsu Gentarou Yoshitaka and his kitchen crew, the tournament to choose the Debatable Lands Thrown Weapons Champion was hosted by last year’s Baronial Champion, Lord Halldorr Bildr Fintanson. There were 8 competitors vying for this honor, and all knew well the challenge the cold weather presented to the already daunting task. A qualifying round was held, after which 5 throwers were deemed worthy. The championship field included all manner of experience levels, from the most serious and experienced to a first time thrower who picked up knife and axe that day simply to try his hand. A steady hand he proved, for he indeed did qualify and acquit himself nicely.

The competition was a Robin Hood themed throw, and centered on the capture of Will Scarlet.

Thrown weapons competition. Photo by Zyla of Sebastion’s Place.

Thrown weapons participants. Photo by Zyla of Sebastion’s Place.

The competitors included Lady Verena Wittkopf, Baroness Aemilia Soteria, Don Clewin Kupferhelblinc, Karl Kupferhelbelinc (age 6), O’no Kuma, and the first time thrower, Duncan McClough.

There were four targets, with one axe target and three knife targets, two weapons thrown per target. The axe target consisted of a white castle with a double door. Five points were awarded for hitting the door, one point for hitting the castle, and 10 points for hitting either the hinges or the handles of the door.

The second target proved much more challenging. It consisted of a head and shoulder with an inch-wide cloak above and around the shoulders. 10 points were given for sticking your knife in the cloak so as to pin Will Scarlet to the wall for questioning, 5 points for a non-lethal strike to the head or arms, and 1 point for the rest of the target. However, a lethal strike to the head or torso would prove costly, deducting 5 points from your score. There was only one 10 point throw, executed brilliantly by Baroness Aemillia Soteria with a devastating knife to the cloak at the bottom of the neck above the shoulder, pinning her subject quite nicely to the wall.

The third target consisted of a small Baronial shield over the center bullseye, with smaller still round shield targets encircling it. Each competitor was given a shield to strike. Hitting the target at all was worth 1 point, while hitting your chosen shield was 5 points. However, hitting an “ally” shield would deduct 5 points, and hitting the Baronial shield, God forbid, was a devastating deduction of 10 points. This target was the most difficult yet, yielding few points to the competitors, but thankfully no one struck the Barony shield.

The final and ultimately deciding target a “head” placed on the ground with an apple pinned upon the top. Competitors were to knock the apple off the top for 5 points, and doing damage to the apple’s skin would yield 10 points. But doing damage to the head would cost you a deduction of 10 points. This was by far the most challenging target. Not only was there a high risk for a miscue, but the target being on the ground presented a formidable addition challenge, as most throwers don’t practice throwing to ground targets. This point proved out in the end, with most competitors missing the target entirely or flirting dangerously close to damaging the head. In the end, only 2 competitors managed to knock the apple off the head: Duncan and Don Clewin, with Clewin being the only one to actually damage the apple, slicing the upper right portion of the apple clean off. This brilliant throw gave Don Clewin the Championship, with a total of 17 points. Three others tied for second with 11 points.

The throwing proved difficult due to the cold and wind as fingers became numb and knives became slippery and harder to control. However, there was never a complaint or a discouraging word heard by any on the throwing line. Her Excellency, Baroness Constance, marveled at the skill and aptitude of the throwers, especially in the cold conditions!

Congratulations to Don Clewin Kupferhelblinc on his victory. We know you will represent us well throughout the coming year. VIVAT!!

ARCHERY

Agincourt was the site of many populace archery shoots:

Lady Katheryne Täntzel ran a youth shoot for French vs English.
Master Alaric MacConnal ran a shield shoot of French vs. English, which was won by Lord Pavel Dudoladov for the English.
THLord Deryk Archer ran a hunt shoot. Ben Nemeth, a promising new archer from the Debatable Lands, took top honors in this shoot.
Maistir Brandubh o Donnghaile ran royal rounds, where King Tindal shoot his first ever royal round.

We shot through the rain, snow and sun. In the end, not surprisingly, the English proved victorious on the archery range.

However, the premier archery competition of the day was the Seven Pearls shoot. There were seven stations, jointly designed and marshaled by last year’s champion, Lord Ichikiero Osoroshi, with assistance from Meistari Urho and Maistir Brandubh.

Seven Pearls Archery competition. Photo by Baron Liam macanTsaoire.

Alas, due to the need to reschedule after weather canceled the plan to hold Seven Pearls at Archers to the Wald, only two baronies were able to provide champions to shoot: the Debatable Lands sent Lady Katheryne Täntzel while Delftwood was represented by Baroness Anastasie Delamour. To make the competition more interesting, they invited other archers to fill in for the Baronies not represented, as the Shoots were designed for 7 to compete against one another. Baron Edward Harbinger, Lord Takematsu Yoshitaka, Ben Nemeth, Lord Pavel Dudolodov, and Master Alaric MacConnal filled in for the other groups.

Shooters were awarded points based on their ranking in each end. All archers received between 1 and 7 point for each end of arrows, first place in each end received 7 points, down to last place in each end received 1 point.

The shoot opened with a one-minute timed round where each archer had to shoot 3 arrows each at 20, 30 and 40 yard targets for standard royal round scores.

The second shoot required the archers to remove all 6 pearls from a baronial coronet while shooting en masse.

The third round was a swan shoot at 40 yards, while the fourth was a baronial heraldry shoot, where all archers shot at the heraldry of the other baronies. The winner was the barony with the least hits on its arms, while the barony with the most hits on its arms received the least points.

The fifth shoot was comprised of period targets of a shield and wand, and the sixth was a pearl hunt, with 49 pearls on the target. Only seven were true pearls and worth points, but archers had to shoot all the pearls to find the true pearls.

In the seventh and final challenge round, after working through the range, each archer issued a challenge and all archers had three arrows to answer the challenge.

In the end Lady Katheryne bested Baroness Anastasie to claim the title of Seven Pearls Champion for the Debatable Lands, while Baron Edward proved the victor among the stand-ins.

Much fun was had by the archers on this cold afternoon. Lady Katheryne, Marshal in Charge, wishes to thank the other marshals and also Meistari Urho for providing loaner gear.

HEAVY BATTLES

The sides were chosen, French (blue) and English (red), with the marshals attempting to make them about even.

First there were a series of gate battles. Access was limited to a nine-foot gate, though the combat archers could fire more freely. The sides took turns being the aggressors with unlimited resurrections against the defenders who had none. Each side was the attacker twice.

After that, there was a series of five open field battles. The French won the first two, the English the final three.

Then a game was played where teams of three non-archers tried to cross an open field while a group of three archers fired at them. If any of the non-archers were ‘killed’ the entire team had to return to the starting line. If one was legged, all were legged.

Finally, the traditional ‘Tavern Brawl’ was held, in which fighters began the melee seated at picnic tables and then jumped into the fight when the marshals called Lay On.

ARTS AND SCIENCES

THLady Sumayya al Ghaziyyah and Lady Astridr Vikaskegg ran the first St. Crispin’s A&S Competition, which is planned to be held annually at Agincourt in the future. There were 25 entries ranging from novices to Laurels and from fiber and costuming to calligraphy and illumination. Entries were judged based on Creativity, Workmanship, Aesthetics, Authenticity, and Complexity. While documentation was considered important, scores for it were only considered in the case of a tie.

Baron Silvester Burchardt won the overall St. Crispin’s Challenge with his piece of brocaded tablet-woven trim.

Brocade tablet weaving by Lord Silvester Burchardt. Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.

Brocade tablet weaving by Baron Silvester Burchardt. Photo by Arianna.

Prizes were also given to gentles in categories based on the arts awards they possessed. Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope won the Laurel category with a black hours Fleur scroll. In the Journeyman category, for gentles with Fleurs, THLord Ishiyama Gen’tarou Yori’ie won for his Suoh (Japanese garb). In the Novice category, for gentles with Sycamores, Lady Ceindrich verch Elidir won for her knitted stockings based on an extant pair made for Eleanor of Toledo. In the Tenderfoot category, for gentles with no Arts awards, Lady Abbatissa Dreye de Banneberi won with her sekanjabin.

COURT

After the day’s activities wore down, Their Excellencies and His Majest held court, processing in to the Debatable Choir singing the Agincourt Carol.

Baron Liam and Baroness Constance recognized their Youth and Thrown Weapons Champions, as well as the winners of the Seven Pearls Archery and other archery competitions, the A&S competition winners, and the winner of the Toys for Tots tournament, as previously mentioned.

Baron Silvester Burchardt is named winner of the St. Crispin’s A&S Competition. Photo by Arianna.

Brillo el Dragon addresses the Baron and Baroness regarding the Toys for Tots tournament that he organized. Photo by Arianna.

Maistir Brandubh o Donnghaile was called forward as archery marshal and noted that Lord Pavel Dudoladov and Lord Robert Pour Maintenant had achieved the Royal Round rank of Marksman.

Their Excellencies also bestowed awards on the following gentles:

Lord Markus Skalpr Grimsson receives a Blue Silver Comet for his tablet weaving and the authenticity of his fighting accoutrements. Photo by Arianna.

Lord Takamatsu Gentarou Yoshitaka receives a Gold Comet for his service, including building the gate for the Debatable Lands’ Pennsic encampment. Photo by Arianna.

Lord Robert Pour Maintenant receives a Gold Comet for his service as a heavy weapons marshal at practices and events. Photo by Arianna.

Their Excellencies then called for Sir Thorgrim Skullsplitter, presenting him with a scroll commemorating the Green Comet that had been given to him at Pennsic, and also asked him to convey the Toys for Tots tourney winner scroll and likewise a belated Green Comet scroll to Sir Vladimir Mechnik, who had left the event before court.

Sir Thorgrim receives his scrolls and those of Sir Vlad. Photo by Arianna.

Sir Thorgrim receives his Green Comet scroll and scrolls for Sir Vlad. Photo by Arianna.

Finally, Their Excellencies had words with the Imperator, Magnus Tindal, regarding their plans to invade their neighboring Shire of King’s Crossing at the Shire’s upcoming Birthday B(r)all on November 7^th in order to retake the lands “stolen” from the Barony-Marche many years ago. His Majesty, after expressing some concern, decided the invasion might be justified and granted Their Excellencies leave to execute this plan.

Imperator Tindal addresses the Baron and Baroness about their planned invasion of King’s Crossing. Photo by Arianna.

Baronial Court closed, and Kingdom Court commenced. A record of the doings at that Court may be found here.

After court, gentles retired to a splendid feast cooked by Meesteress Odriana vander Brughe and her crew, then wound the evening down with bardic activities and good fellowship. Those who stayed overnight in the cabins on the site were treated to a breakfast of bagels and yummy feast leftovers Sunday morning.

Congratulations to the Autocrats, Baron Liam, Baroness Constance, and Lady Isabel, for another fine Agincourt event.

New Defence Academy to be Formed

24 Thursday Sep 2015

Posted by aethgazette in Event Announcements & Updates, Fencing

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Defence Academy, fencing

With the Pennsic War now behind us, training begins. This October 4th, at the College of Cour d’Or in BMDL, fencing instructors from all over the Kingdom and beyond are gathering for the second Historical Rapier Schola. Come join us to learn from period styles, test yourself against fencers from all over Æthelmearc, and witness the beginning of the Defence Academy! See the event announcement for event times and details. The Facebook event page can be found here. The proposal letter for the creation of the Academy is offered herewith:

Throughout history, skilled craftsmen have banded together into ordered communities to share their knowledge and expertise, teach novices, and further refine the art and science of their trade. In this spirit, and with great enthusiasm, I am glad to more completely announce the founding of the Defence Academy at the upcoming Historical Rapier Schola in Cour d’Or. I am merely the voice of several dedicated individuals who have put great effort into bringing this idea into fruition. They have stepped forward, not only from our own Kingdom, but from the Society as a whole.

The rapier community is experiencing a time of great wealth in historical resources, advanced rapier simulators available, and in communication between historians and practitioners all over the world. There is such a wealth that one can easily be overwhelmed by it all. The Defence Academy aims to serve as a communal network, to connect questions to answers and students to teachers. Furthermore, the Academy will seek to incorporate period study of the masters at every stage of learning, to better refine our practice. As a group, we can face a world of opportunities and find the path we are looking for. In this letter, I intend to outline the structure and function of the Academy, and how it will be introduced.

General Disclaimers:

This is an additional venture for the rapier community. Participation is entirely voluntary, and there will be no social advantage/disadvantage to participating or not.
This is not meant to challenge or replace existing conventions, such as the taking of cadets.
The ranks within the Academy exist only within the academy. They do not reflect social standing, nor do they influence Kingdom Orders or Precedence.
Some titles used for ranks are already in use by other organizations and Kingdoms. Distinction shall always be maintained, and Academy titles end outside of the Academy.
The Academy is at the service of the Crown and Kingdom always, but does not seek to challenge personal ethics and inclinations. The Academy defers to the judgment of the Crown on matters of those worthy to serve as Provosts and Masters.
Communal development of the community is the singular goal, through the group oriented study, practice, and refinement of historical research and application.
There is no polling, and all communication is intended to be open and transparent.

Structure:

Without delving to deep into history, many of the guilds and skilled trade groups through period adopted a system of ranks. These ranks denoted a general skill level or mastery of the trade. One entered as a novice, and through hard work and study, they could move to higher ranks as their abilities improved. Eventually, as their skills reached close to perfection, the guild might acknowledge them as a master and look to them as new teachers of the ranks below. The famed London Masters of Defence, along with many other schools in Italy and Germany, were skill trade schools in the art of fence, with rapier, sidesword, and even longsword. The Defence Academy will follow this example and adopt a similar structure.

The Academy will be sectioned into four tiers, each with their own requirements to enter, expectations in behavior, and goals for the next rank. These ranks serve to identify and recognize efforts made and draw attention from those that might be able to assist or seek the experience of those recognized. Each rank will also bear a symbol, so that they might recognize their fellow members. Progression from one rank to the next shall be based on clear criteria, with the intention of encouraging that growth, rather than stand as unachievable or misunderstood standards. The ranks are as follows:

Scholar

This is the entry level position. It is meant for those new to fencing or just beginning to develop their personal style. Guidance will be readily available to this rank so they might develop quickly.

Prerequisite- Authorization in the Kingdom entry form. (In Æthelmearc, this is single heavy rapier.)

Expectations- Attend practices and events. Seek out the experience of others. Practice the various forms available and work towards further authorizations. Work with other scholars to practice techniques. Ask about historical masters and their legacies.

Badge- A red scarf with a central white stripe, longwise, to be worn about the arm.

Free Scholar

Members of this tier have started to piece together techniques and concepts that serve them in combat, developing a recognizable quality to their style.

Prerequisites- As a more senior rank, more is expected for qualification. There are four criteria.

Authorization in all forms for heavy rapier. Cut and Thrust is not necessary, although encouraged.
Noted participation in a baronial or Kingdom level rapier champions tourney.
Consistently displayed prowess of note to three Provosts or Masters of the Academy. At this stage, scholars should be developing successful strategies to combat their fellow scholars. Consistent, superior application of these techniques will draw the attention of the more senior ranks.
Displayed familiarity with a historical fencing source, related to the application of fencing theory. This can take shape as a brief research paper, teaching/assisting with a class on historical style. Scholars are encouraged to seek guidance on this from more senior members.

Expectations- Attend practices and events out of your region. Work towards marshalate training and assist in the running of practices. Assist with authorizations. Assist or take the lead in teaching new members the basics of fencing. Continue to develop a personal style to your fight, seeking the advice of more senior ranks. Direct questions by scholars to more senior ranks, if necessary. Investigate different historical styles and sources to compare theories, develop technique, and draw context for the techniques. Serve the Crown and Kingdom, with and without sword in hand.

Badge- A gold scarf with a central white stripe, longwise, to be worn about the arm.

Provost

Years of practice and refinement lead the fencer to notable prowess and respected service, such that the Crown makes special acknowledgement.

Prerequisite- The office of Provost is offered to those deemed worthy by the Crown to serve as Defenders of the White Scarf (and equivalent positions if gained from out of Kingdom) and/or Master of Defence. The Academy has full trust in the wisdom of the Crown and will honor Their decision without hesitation.

Expectations- Provosts are the champions of the Academy, serving as its strength and influence. Provosts shall oversee and ensure the consistent availability of practices within their regions, such that anyone wishing to fence is met with opportunity, within the reasonable capacity of the Provost. They shall serve as mentors to the free scholars, offering the guidance necessary for growth. Take note of scholars that excel, and always consider those worthy of sponsoring as a free scholar. Maintain open and transparent communication with all ranks, sharing experiences freely. Continually refine personal ability, as combatants, teachers, and servants of the Kingdom. Continue to develop familiarity with historical rapier resources, for personal development or to assist in the development of others.

Badge- Provosts shall bear the white scarf as given to them by the Crown.

Master

Masters of the Academy are those chosen worthy by the Crown so serve as Masters of Defence. They serve as the binding force to maintain solidarity in the community and open and safeguard friendly relations with neighboring Kingdoms. As peers of the realm, they are expected to ensure the development of the highest quality of courtesy, etiquette, and demeanor by all, such that none may bring shame upon the Academy.

Prerequisite-The office of Master of the Academy is offered to those deemed worthy by the Crown to serve as Master of Defence. The Academy has full trust in the wisdom of the Crown and will honor Their decision without hesitation.

Expectations- Members of this rank are expected to maintain the highest standards of prowess and behavior. They shall serve to guide and foster members of all ranks and ensure that the community as a whole is thriving. They shall oversee and refine the policies and conventions of the rapier community, in accordance with the appropriate Kingdom Officers. As peers, they shall continually interact with neighboring kingdoms to benefit fencing throughout the Society. Masters shall discern the needs of the Kingdom and develop strategies to serve those needs. They shall be, or endeavour to become, fluent in period styles, or be ready to refer to expertise elsewhere. They shall ensure that questions receive answers and that students find teachers, within the reasonable capacity of the individuals involved. They shall seek to find how best the rapier community can serve the Kingdom and Society as a whole, beyond matters of war and combat. They shall serve in all functions as outlined in Society Corpora for those members of a peerage. Above all else, they shall strive to ensure that the art and science of fencing remains a welcoming, enjoyable venture such that all those who wish to better themselves as students of fence are given opportunity to do so.

Badge- Masters of the Academy shall bear the regalia appropriate to the Order of Defence, as given to them by the Crown.

Progression:

All fencers shall have opportunity to prove their value and worth, and skill shall be readily acknowledged. Upon first authorization, a willing fencer shall be offered position as scholar of the Academy by a Provost or Master of the Academy. As the scholar continues to grow, Provosts and Masters will look for verification of the outlined criteria above, and upon consensus of three Provosts or Masters, the scholar may be raised to the rank of free scholar. While no polling is necessary for this to occur, open discussion is encouraged amongst the Provosts and Masters, such that each scholar is given a complete evaluation.

At each of these circumstance, a prize tourney may be organized to serve as a display of the abilities of the candidate and to assist meeting more members of the community. Prowess displayed during these prize tournies is not necessarily grounds for further evaluation, although the tournies are a fine venue to demonstrate the fruits of hard practice and refinement. Comportment and etiquette are of great importance as members of all ranks, along with the Kingdom populace, may be present.

The offering of Provost and Master of the Academy are dependent on the Crown’s judgement, as outlined above. The Academy will tolerate no further scrutiny, and all reservations shall be dealt with openly.The Academy values growth and development for all, and has no room for ulterior motives.

The Academy shall be introduced with a tournament at the conclusion of the Historical Rapier Schola. All members of the populace that do not have grant level or peer level recognition for fencing are invited to participate in the tourney. The format shall be determined pending the number of entries. All who participate in the Schola and the tourney, if they wish, shall be offered the rank of scholar and the appropriate badge. During the day, those members of the Provost and Master ranks shall observe the prowess and conduct of the scholars, to provide feedback and begin evaluating those worthy of the rank of free scholar. While no free scholars will be made that day, discussion shall be initiated quickly and candidates identified within as brief a time period as possible.

Communication:

The Academy shall maintain a presence on social media in the form of a Facebook group. Every member of the Academy will be given a thread, to allow for focused discussion on that member. All discussion will be open to the entire Academy, and constructive commentary is encouraged. No derogatory, demeaning, or slanderous commentary will be tolerated. Each thread shall have a picture of the candidate, along with their Society name and present rank in the Academy. Private communication is always tolerated, but it is preferred to maintain transparent intentions through public discussion. Participation and inclusion within this forum is completely voluntary, and no thread shall be initiated without specific permission by the member.

Conclusions:

I would first like to thank the assistance of the Atlantian Academie d’Espee, that serves as a fostering sister to the birth of the Defence Academy. Members of every rank have offered support and enthusiasm for this venture, and strong ties are already being formed. The two groups shall always serve to support and strengthen the other, lending experience and a helping hand. The Defence Academy has modeled its structure off of the Academie d’Espee, and will recognize all ranks laterally. It is the intent of the Defence Academy to work closely with the Academie d’Espee in developing the rapier community across borders.

The Defence Academy wishes only for the betterment of the community through communal effort. It is our hope that everyone find a welcoming home within the Academy. The experience and wisdom of all members are necessary for the benefit of all. I, as merely a voice for the many that comprise the Academy, take great honor in inviting all to consider participation in the birth and growth of the Defence Academy.

Event Report: Summer’s End, Canton of Beau Fleuve, September 12, A.S. L

17 Thursday Sep 2015

Posted by aethgazette in Arts & Sciences, Event Reports, Feast, Fencing, Heavy List, Thrown Weapons

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A&S, Beau Fleuve, fencing, fighting, rapier, Rhydderich Hael, Summer's End, thrown weapons

Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope, Lord Magnus de Lyons, and Lady Miriel du Lac, and Baron Caleb Reynolds report on the happenings at Summer’s End.

The Canton of Beau Fleuve held its annual Summer’s End event on September 12th. It featured the usual fighting, fencing, and thrown weapons, as well as an A&S competition.

The heavy weapons portion of the event began with melees. Sir Aengus MacBain, the autocrat of Summer’s End, recorded the fighting from above.

– Video by Sir Aengus MacBain.

After the melees, the “Beer Pit” tourney began. To enter, each fighter had to supply some quantity of beer, whether alcoholic or non (root beer, ginger beer, etc. were acceptable), and then the combatants fought a standard bear pit with one point for a loss and two points for a win. One observer noted that you could tell the beer contributions came from Scadians, as there wasn’t a “light” beer to be seen.

Sir Finn vs. Duke Sven. Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.

The beer contributed for the “Beer Pit.” Photo by Mistress Arianna.

The winner of the “Beer Pit” tourney was Duke Sven Gunnarsson, newly arrived in Æthelmearc from Drachenwald this summer. He generously shared the beer with his fellow combatants, taking only a single mixed six-pack as his “loot.” His Majesty, King Timothy, placed second, with Sir Finn Marland O’Shannon third.

Thrown Weapons

Despite the drizzly weather, 15 throwers braved the elements to throw axes, knives, and spears. All competitors threw a Royal Round with axe and knife followed by a left/right target: thrower’s choice of weapon. The thrower had to hit a pair of griffins; first the one on the left, followed by the one on the right. To round out the competition, each thrower then had six spears to make the best poker hand. Throwing four spears at 15 feet, and two spears at 25 feet, throwers had to hit randomly placed playing cards on a sheet: jokers were wild. Madoc got the highest score (20) on this target: with 5 points for sticking five times plus an additional 15 points for getting three of a kind. But the winner of the overall competition with 108 points was Lady Aemelia Soteria of BMDL, who threw like a champ in spite of the weather and the long drive. Vivant to all the throwers!

Thrown weapons competitors. Photo by Mistress Arianna.

Fencing

A challenging fencing tournament was run by Lord Alexander du Lac and was attended by many eager fencers including HRH Prince Magnus Tindal. The tournament was a reverse bear pit, which at least for some of the newer fencers, was a fresh experience. In a reverse bear pit, two fencers enter the list to fight a bout. After the bout, the winner leaves the list and scores a point while the loser remains in the list to fight another bout until either winning a bout or reaching a maximum of three losses (at which time two new fighters entered the list). The format kept the action flowing and the blades flying, lasting a couple hours with only an occasional break. Finally, as sword-arms tired and the list dwindled in number, a final series of bouts was fought between Don Behrend von Elmendorf and Lord Robert MacEwin of Thornhill, with Don Behrend emerging the victor. Aside from all the points, the tournament was a wonderful display of fair play with many fine examples of courtesy and chivalry, showing once again that the Society is more about friends than it is just winning the day.

Lady Mirel du Lac vs. Don Behrend von Elmendorf. Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.

HRH Prince Magnus Tindal vs. Lord Robert MacEwin of Thornhill. Photo by Mistress Arianna.

Arts and Sciences Competition

The theme for the A&S competition at Summers End this year was “What I did on my Pennsic Vacation”. All entries had to be a project made at or learned in a class taken at Pennsic 44. No formal documentation was required, however the entry had to include the name of the class and the instructor. Handouts from the class could be displayed with the entry. Scoring was by a populace bean count. There were five entries this year, and here they are in no particular order.

One was a red pillow embroidered in black, gold, and white based off the class Inlaid Patchwork, Embroidered Work, Embroidered Stitch, Rag Rug or Intarsia taught by Baroness Kaleeb the Green

A second was a set of wire wrapped rings in silver and copper based off the class Quick and Easy Handmade Largess by the Lady Droen O’Rourke.

A third was an example of a Medieval Mustard based off the class Dijon Vu.

A Fourth was an example of silk banner painting done in red and black based off the class Silk standard/Banners by Madame Cynthia du Pont.

In the end the winner by a large number of votes was the red pillow embroidered in black, gold, and white by Lady Alime bint Yorgi.

Kingdom and Baronial Courts

Their Excellencies, Carolus and Isolda, Baron and Baroness of the Rhydderich Hael, held their baronial court where they recognized the tourney winners, and bestowed awards on numerous deserving gentles. They also thanked the autocrat, Sir Aengus MacBain, for running an excellent event.

Their Excellencies Carolus and Isolde thank the autocrat, Sir Aengus MacBain. Photo by Mistress Arianna.

At Royal court, Their Majesties, King Timothy and Queen Gabrielle called forth the Kingdom Seneschale, Mistress Cori Ghora, and thanked her for her years of service in a difficult job. They then summoned Duke Christopher Rawlins and confirmed that he was willing to take the reins of the Kingdom from Mistress Cori, to which he agreed. His Grace swore his fealty to the Kingdom and accepted the key of office. The populace cheered the past service of Mistress Cori and the work to come by Duke Christopher.

Duke Christopher swears fealty as Kingdom Seneschal. Photo by Mistress Arianna.

Their Majesties went on to bestow awards on many deserving gentles. A sad moment came when They apologized to one award recipient because her scroll was not there — because it had been assigned to Countess Aidan ni Leir. Their Majesties then bade the populace observe a moment of silence in honor of the passing of this pillar of the Society, and further exhorted them to reach out to friends, as one never knows when they may be taken from us.

The highlight of the court was the bestowing of the Jewel of Æthelmearc on Maestro Jacopo di Niccolo for his many years of service to the Kingdom, most especially to the archery community. The Jewel is given to those gentles who the Crown believe exemplify all that is excellent in their populace. Maestro Jacopo is the 39th Jewel of Æthelmearc.

Maestro Jacopo di Niccolo is made the 39th Jewel of Æthelmearc. Photo by Mistress Arianna.

The Feast

This year’s feast was cooked by Lord Robaird Michael Patrick Timothy James O’Suilleabhainn, better known as Brother Bobby. The feast consisted of two courses and a dessert.

Course 1
Assorted Rolls with Maple & Parmesan Butters
Moroccan Bean & Vegetable Soup
Autumn Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

Course 2
Thracian Chicken
Apple Pork Pie
Mushy Peas
Roasted Rice

Dessert
Shortbread Cookies with Lemon Cheesecake Dip

The Populace that had assembled for the feast set heartily to all of the food. At one point little speaking was being done as every mouth was busy enjoying the delicious victuals before them. Much was made of the tasty butters, used to enhance the soft rolls and when the soup arrived more then a few people dunked their bread into the warm vegetable and bean laden soup (and sometimes rice). The salad had cubes of fresh apple, raisins, and crisp lettuce.

When the second course arrived the populace enjoyed the smoky and flavorful Thracian Chicken. The Apple Pork Pie served cold helped to sate the hearty appetites of the people assembled; its tender pork chunks wrapped in flaky crust were devoured almost as soon as they hit the plates. The sides of Mushy Peas and Roasted Rice were a welcome addition to the meal, both flavorful and winning over more then a few people who had stated they were not big fans of “green things”.

Finally the dessert course was served and people happily dipped Shortbread Cookies with and without gluten into the tart Lemon Cheesecake Dip. Some were so enamored with the dip they asked for containers of their own.

The people, now full and happy, declared the feast a success and raised their cups to Brother Bobby in praise of his wonderful meal that day.

Pennsic Rapier Battles: Mustering Schedule

24 Friday Jul 2015

Posted by aethgazette in Fencing, Pennsic

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battles, fencing, Pennsic, rapier

To the Rapier Army of Æthelmearc, from Maestro Orlando di Bene del Vinta, Rapier Warlord:

For all battles, except the Woods Battle, we will muster on the field opposite the East/Mid Alliance.

Unit Commanders: Meet with command staff 45 mins before all battles.
General Army: Muster is 30 mins before all battles.

General Schedule:

Monday August 3rd 1:00 PM Rapier Manor Battle
Tuesday August 4th 1:00 PM Rapier Village Battle
Wednesday August 5th 11:00 AM Rapier Champions & Rapier Champions Melee Right After
Thursday August 6th 2:00 PM Rapier Woods Battle
Friday August 7th 1:00 PM Rapier Field Battles

If changes occur, either I or one of my sub-commanders (Don Will or Baron Fergus) will post information on the Æthelmearc Rapier Army Facebook page and via the Æthelmearc Rapier Yahoo Group. I will also try to get written information to Æthelmearc Royal.

Our tape color this year is RED.

Remember, we will face a mighty host, so bring a couple of friends to partake of the target rich environment!

Photo by Mikus Magellus.

St Swithin’s Bog Throwback Three Day

16 Thursday Jul 2015

Posted by Lis Gelatt in Archery, Arts & Sciences, Feast, Fencing, Heavy List, Thrown Weapons

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A&S, AE 500, Announcements, fencing, Heavy List, Seven Pearls, St. Swithin's Bog, thrown weapons

The Bog would like to welcome you to our event this year.
We’re calling it Throwback Three Day in the hopes that you’ll appear
To celebrate our past with us, it will be such a treat.
We’ll have marshal activities, scribal arts, and the best food to eat.
Their Majesties will be here, and the Prince and Princess, too.
What better day to meet up with old friends and with new.

Please join the Barony of St. Swithin’s Bog as we celebrate our past at this year’s Throwback Three Day event this weekend. We’re in the mood to reminisce, so bust out that old garb you haven’t worn in years, and bring us your stories and old photographs from Bog events past.

Throwback Three Day will be held Friday July 17th-Sunday July 19th at the New Germany Grove- 1635 New Germany Rd Summerhill, Pa 15958. The site opens on Friday July 17th at 5:00pm and closes promptly at 12:00pm on Sunday. Camping is free and very much encouraged. No shower facilities are available, but please feel free to bring your own amenities. The site is discreetly wet and above ground fires are permitted. No pets allowed on site. The autocrat for this event is THLady Ursula of Rouen (Danielle Duvall, PO Box 661, Shepherdstown, WV 25443). Any questions can be sent to her at 540-287-1748 or Ursula.of.rouen@gmail.com. Co-Autocrat for this event is THLady Rois O’Faye called Rosheen (Tracey Zimmerman) who can be reached at tzimmerman125@gmail.com.

The site fee for this weekend of friends, food and fellowship will be $10 for adults, $5 for children agest 6-17. Children 5 and under are the esteemed guests of Their Excellencies. Checks can be made payable to “SCA, Inc; Barony of St. Swithin’s Bog”. There will be a $5 non-member charge.

Refreshments will be available Friday night for those camping, as well as breakfast Saturday morning. A Saturday day board is included in the site fee. Feast will be available Saturday evening for $8, and will be limited to the first 64 people. All dietary concerns should be sent to our Head Cook who promises several “Throw Back” treats and a day board that is sure to astound, Mistress AElfra Long (Sherry Meyers) at mistressaelfra@atlanticbb.net.

Numerous activities will be held throughout the day Saturday including: the last leg of the Kingdom A&S Challenge, the 7 Pearls fencing tournament, and the AE 500 tournament. There will be fencing and heavy pick-ups in the afternoon, as well as throwing on the thrown weapons range. Scribes are encouraged to bring their paints and brushes and compete in the 7th Annual Iron Scribe competition.

Peers with Swords: Master Aedan Aylwyn

08 Wednesday Jul 2015

Posted by aethgazette in Fencing

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fencing, Interviews, Order of Defence

By Don William Parris

This is the third in a series of interviews with peers of the rapier world, throughout the Society. I have spoken with representatives of the Order of the Laurel and the Order of Defense, digging into their experiences and perspectives on the evolution of the fencing world. While there is an admirable company of these respected individuals in our Kingdom of Ӕthelmearc, I have approached several more from our neighbors in the Midrealm, Atlantia, and the East. I hope these interviews offer an interesting look through the eyes of rapier fighters that have risen to the prestigious rank of Peer of the Realm.

Master Aedan Aylwyn

A Premier member of Atlantia’s Order of Defence. Photo by Aine Ruadh Inghean Neill

Credentials and History: Who are you, what do you do, and who elevated you?

My name is Aedan Aylwyn. I first started in the SCA back in ’80 or so in high school and for my first two years of college. This was back in Calontir while it was still a principality. Life came up, then more life and then a trip overseas for Uncle Sam to an active war zone. When I came back, one of the life changes I wanted to make was to get back into the SCA. I was living in the Washington DC area in northern Atlantia. So I really consider my SCA time to start in ’92 in Atlantia. I had some college sabre fencing experience that started me into rapier. I was mostly self-taught, having quickly moved to a city where there were no other rapier fighters. I must have done pretty well and I definitely kept very busy as I was recognized with Atlantia’s top rapier award in ’95 as the 12th Provost of Atlantia by TRM Cuan and Bridget. Half a year later, Atlantia signed the White Scarf treaty and grandfathered all of the Provosts (closing that order).

I’ve served as Baronial Seneschal and solo Landed Baron (no Baroness). I was the 4th Society Rapier Marshal where I overhauled that office, instituted online information, reporting forms and deadlines and the first comprehensive rewrite of the SCA rapier rules, adding the third form of Cut & Thrust combat at that time. I have kept very busy for the past 20+ years, being recognized by numerous Kings and Queens with their personal awards, six times with the Sharks Tooth for ferocity in combat (on both the armored and rapier fields, both melee and tournament) and Atlantia’s Orders of High Merit for service (Golden Dolphin) and combat teaching (Sea Stag). I was greatly honored by TRM Amalric and Caia in ’00 with them making me the 6th Companion of the Nonpareil, an Atlantian award given out at most once per reign for “showing excellence, honor, courtesy or chivalry above and beyond any duty and exemplifying what it means to be an Atlantian”. TRM Ragnarr and Anneke inducted me into the Order of the Pelican in ’06. Most recently, I was honored to become one of Atlantia’s three premier members of Order of Defense by TRM Logan and Esa.

What is your focus of study/training? How do you like to fence?

I am a very process focused person. This is probably the only reason I was able to do as well as I did with no direct teachers, instead going to events and working with anyone that would hold still. For a long time, I essentially developed my own style, graduating from light rapier to heavy rapier as that came into existence. It wasn’t until Dante di Pietro, a former rapier student of mine that had become a peer in the WS, started studying Capoferro in depth in ’05 that I had a good vehicle to reinvent my fighting for probably the fourth time in my SCA career. I started by learning Italian rapier from/with him and specifically Capoferro and later going back to my roots of finding commonality and underlying concepts in what and how this stuff worked. Since then I have become a big fan of Giganti for the theory and philosophy of fighting rapier. For the past couple of years, I have taught classes on tempo, measure, Italian blade work concepts and Giganti’s philosophy of counter-guarding.

I enjoy fencing in all its forms, both tournament and melee.

Competing in the prestigious Ruby Joust Tournament. Photo by Courtney Pachis.

What draws you to fencing, inspiring your dedication towards excellence?

At first, it was the easy analog to the little bit of Olympic style fencing that I knew. Since then, it was the community of people involved and the joy of executing clean technique successfully over slop or sheer athleticism.

What goals do you set for yourself as a fencer, teacher, peer, and citiczen of the kingdom?

My first reaction was that you listed those in reverse order. One of the best things about Atlantia (in my opinion) was that the early rapier leaders (of which I quickly become one) set the tone that you were an Atlantian first and did whatever you did second. I described this as “being an Atlantian who fights rapier, not a rapier fighter that lives in Atlantia”. My goal is to continue finding people that are dedicated to improving Atlantia and rapier and helping them succeed. If I can teach someone to the point where they beat me straight up in a tournament, I made my goal. Ditto for helping someone that becomes a senior marshal, succeeds in HMA studies or steps up for a major office of any sort.

What challenges have you face as you became the fencer you are and as you become the fencer you wish to be?

As stated previously, I started in the Barony of Storvik and learned the basics of rapier fighting but quickly moved down to Caer Mear which had no other rapier fighters at the time (and for many years after). My initial learning was all done by attending events, analyzing my tournament fights and doing pickup fights/training with anyone that would hold still at an event. It helps that I didn’t start really fighting rapier until I was almost 30 years old so I never had a chance to rely on being young and fast. I have always been an analytical person and fighting styles were just one more thing to break down and figure out. As historical studies come into prominence, I was mentally set to once again reinvent how I fought to now “do it right” the way I had always wanted.

What were your thoughts and feelings as the Order of Defence was announced and approved?

On the one hand, I was always for it. I thought that providing a way to recognize prowess in rapier would always be a good thing and was previously lacking to a degree in the SCA in general. On the other hand, Atlantia has always had a well-integrated fighting community. Some of what I saw in other Kingdoms was a feeling of “if we only had X, we would be respected and listened to”. That’s never been the case in Atlantia so while I thought the recognition would be a good thing all around, it never stopped me from doing what I was doing and enjoying it while I did.

How did you feel when you were asked to be a Master of Defence?
What did you think being a Master would mean?

I had one of those “angry young man” moments before I became a Provost A good friend confronted me with my poor attitude and it made a big difference. Since that point, I have been very careful to not anticipate any type of recognition or award and focused on doing what I did because I enjoyed it and thought it made a positive difference. I was very honored to be one of the premiers of the Order but I really did try to not care about it if and until it happened. As to meaning, I just see it as an extension of all of the leadership I am currently providing for rapier. It will take some time for the OD to truly separate from the Atlantian White Scarf order so I still think of myself as part of that larger ~60 person group. Until that time, I have the added responsibility of setting the correct tone for those member of the OD order that will follow me to make sure we do the best we can for Atlantia.

A serious competitor…but not too serious. Photo by Victoria Dye.

The Order of Defence is new, allowing for new traditions to be formed. How was working with vigilants from around the Society to give birth to the new order?

Interesting but frustrating at times. The culture of rapier in Atlantia made for very easy adoption of this new Peerage. It just fit right into what we’re already doing. I’m a big fan of being knowledgeable about other Kingdoms and their culture but there were still times where I just shook my head at some of the aspects that others were stressing about and determined that “we need to fix this and all do it the same way”.

How do you see your views on training and study changing? Your role in the Kingdom? Society?

No changes at all. I’ll keep doing what I have been. I don’t really see the OD peerage impacting that. I suppose it might affect how others perceive me but I am not too worried about that and will deal with it when it crops oup.

What advice would you give newer fencers aspiring to improve themselves as fencers and citizens of the Society?

Have goals in mind, both short term and long term. Find teachers and styles that work for you. If you ask for help, listen to it and question your reasons for both following it and for ignoring it. Do something besides just rapier and be active in your local group and your Kingdom. Understand that there is no “one true way” for anything but make sure you have a good reason for what you do and what you don’t do. I think winning is lots of fun but don’t be a d*ck about it. If you find yourself feeling apologetic about something after a win, you probably did something you shouldn’t have. Always set your goals against yourself, not against anyone else. Did you fight above your normal? Make something work that you’ve been practicing? Do something stupid that you knew better about? Don’t beat yourself up because X is better or Y looks nicer. Compete against yourself.

How do you expect working with the Orders of High Merit, such as the White Scarf, to evolve as the Order of Defence grows into greater responsibility for the community?

I really don’t see much changing. As a Pelican, I don’t think anything about someone with a Golden Dolphin (High Order of Merit – Service) taking on a job or getting something done. Other than joking with close friends, I hope I never see or hear “you’re only a WS, you should listen to me or do what I say because I’m a Master of Defense”. If you make it to the White Scarf or equivalent level, I expect you to lead the community just as much as I do.

A champion and servant of his kingdom, Atlantia. Photo by Elashava Bas Riva.

Peers with Swords: Mistress Illadore de Bedagrayne

29 Monday Jun 2015

Posted by aethgazette in Fencing, Interviews

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fencing, Interviews, Order of Defence

By Don William Parris.

This is the second in a series of interviews with peers of the rapier world, throughout the Society. I have spoken with representatives of the Order of the Laurel and the Order of Defense, digging into their experiences and perspectives on the evolution of the fencing world. While there is an admirable company of these respected individuals in our Kingdom of Ӕthelmearc, I have approached several more from our neighbors in the Midrealm, Atlantia, and the East. I hope these interviews offer an interesting look through the eyes of rapier fighters that have risen to the prestigious rank of Peer of the Realm.

Photo by Mistress Tsvia bas Zipporah Levi of Granada

Mistress Illadore de Bedagrayne

Credentials and History: Who are you, what do you do, and who elevated you?

I am Illadore de Bedegrayne, Premiere Member of the Order of Defense of the West Kingdom, elevated on May 1st, A.S. L, by Queen Aesa and King Miles. I am also the 29th White Scarf of Æthelmearc and a cooking Laurel. I have been in the SCA since I was 18 and have loved just about every minute of it. I started fighting rapier in 2001, after watching several of my friends get involved with fencing. I fell in love with it the second that (now Master) Michael Alewright put a sword in my hand at a fencing practice in the BMDL – and knew I was completely hooked after my first melee game of “Paranoia” at my second practice.

What draws you to fencing, inspiring your dedication towards excellence?

So many things. My dad taught me to love sports at a young age (including how to throw an elbow when I was nine) and my mom taught me that “a thing worth doing is worth doing well.” I grew up playing sports and with the understanding that practice makes perfect and is worth doing because of the both of them. What brought me to fencing were my friends; what kept me was the camaraderie of the rapier community as well as the historic nature of our sport. I love the history and the research being done by the rapier community. It is just utterly fascinating that we can trace what we do back to the 15th century (and further back) – and use books and manuals written in that time to help train and hone our skills.

I was also inspired (and continue to be inspired) by so many rapier fighters in both the West Kingdom and Aethelmearc – and the rest of the Knowne World. The list is long and I’m afraid to write it all out as I may miss someone. I also take inspiration from many members of the Chivalry and how dedicated they are to their Art as well.

Serving as a Pennsic Champion. Photo by Lady Saskia van Ouwater

What goals do you set for yourself as a fencer, teacher, peer, and citizen of the kingdom?

My goal has always been the same – become the best fencer in the Universe. I am, obviously, still working on that one.

What challenges have you face as you became the fencer you are and as you become the fencer you wish to be?

While injuries have been one of my main challenges, I would have to say that the rapier community gaining acceptance in the Society has been the biggest challenge we have all had to face. It has been tough. Back in January, when the Board of Directors had first voted against the Order of Defense proposal and then reversed the decision, hearing the backlash against the rapier community on social media truly stung. The outcry really rocked me as I had thought we were past that – fighting is fighting. It should not matter what type of weapon you have in your hand, as it is the journey and the discovery that matters. I am grateful for all of the outpouring of joy for the new Peerage that has happened since then; however, I still think some bridge building is going to be needed to mend some of those rifts.

On the day of her elevation to the Order of Defence. Photo by Sandra Linehan

How did you feel when you were asked to be a Master of Defense? What did you think being a Master would mean?

This will be a surprise to no one who knows me – but – I was back in Court (actually, off to the side as Queen Aesa and King Miles were holding court on the field), blathering on about fencing with other fighters when I was called into Court, rather than paying attention. So, I was quite shocked when I was called and saw now-Master Joseph Blayde kneeling in front of Their Majesties.

As to what being a Master of Defense means – I think it means being a leader for the rapier community at the Society level. I feel my experiences as a White Scarf have given me a great foundation for this “new job” as well as my experience as a Laurel. As a Peer (and as a White Scarf), I know that it is no longer “all about me.” I have been given a job to do – to make the rapier community and the Society a better place, to help train newcomers, to be an inspiration, to make a path for those who come behind me. It is going to be a tough job and I am sure that I will not always be perfect at it. I will; however, get back up more times than I fall down. I also know that I cannot do this alone, either, and I will need help from all of you on this new path. Yes. All of you. 🙂

The Order of Defence is new, allowing for new traditions to be formed. How was working with vigilants from around the Society to give birth to the new order?

Difficult. There are many strong voices and many strong opinions. The one thing that brings us together, however, is the idea that we are trying to do what is best for the Society and the rapier community. In that I think we all agree, we are trying to do what is best. How we get there, however, is the challenge.

My personal hope for starting a tradition – white garters. They are easy to spot on the field and most of us wear boots of some sort. Plus, I’m a knitter so it’s easy for me to produce those. 🙂

What advice would you give newer fencers aspiring to improve themselves as fencers and citizens of the Society?

There are some tried and true methods for becoming a better rapier fighter – practice all the time, travel and fight more people, read books, thinking about fighting – every day. The one other suggestion I have is to keep a fighting journal. It helps to go back and see how far you have come – and putting ones thoughts to paper often helps organize those thoughts and gain insight. As to how to improve as a citizen of the Society – understand that both Service and Art are the backbones of our Society as well as fighting – so go get involved! Help out at events, become a marshal, run practices, be an officer, be the Iron Key keeper, etc. And make Art! Do research, make hats, sew a tunic, learn embroidery, build catapults, etc. The SCA is an amazing group – go out and explore.

How do you expect working with the Orders of High Merit, such as the White Scarf, to evolve as the Order of Defence grows into greater responsibility for the community?

First off, the White Scarf has always held a special place in my heart. Until a few months ago, the White Scarf was the highest award one could receive for rapier combat in both the West and in Æthelmearc. In the West, Duke Uther Schiemann der Hunt, as King, opened the Western White Scarf Order with the intent of helping the West get ready for a rapier peerage. With that understanding in mind, I see the White Scarves of both the West Kingdom and of Æthelmearc as my fellows, my compatriots, and as my brothers and sisters. I expect to work closely with them in the future – closed or open orders – they were given a job to do for the rapier community when they were made White Scarves, just as I was. I will also admit that I do not see the Masters of Defense as the “best of the best of the best White Scarves” either. I feel that the skill level of a White Scarf should be the equivalent of a Master of Defense and vice versa.

How Pennsic Champions are Chosen

23 Tuesday Jun 2015

Posted by aethgazette in Arts & Sciences, Fencing, Heavy List, Pennsic, Thrown Weapons

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A&S, Announcements, archery, Championships, Event Announcements & Updates, fencing, Heavy List, Pennsic, rapier, thrown weapons

Photo by Lord Darter the Chronicler.

Pennsic is coming up soon! Her Majesty, Queen Gabrielle, has been hard at work making baldrics for the gentles who will be chosen as Æthelmearc’s Champions in each of the War Points. Because our allies will also contribute Champions, Their Majesties don’t know yet exactly how many gentles from Æthelmearc will be participating, but there will be teams of skilled and inspirational gentles filling the following slots.

Heavy Weapons

His Majesty, King Timothy, says that He is working with Sir Stefan Ulfkellson, Kingdom Warlord, to choose fighters for the three Heavy Weapons Champion Battles. “Prowess alone will not get you a slot on the team,” His Majesty said. “Attendance matters. I’m looking for the people who put their heart and soul into going to every muster and really care about being on the team. I want the fighters who will be thrilled to receive a champion’s baldric and cherish it for the rest of their lives. There is no “entitlement” – being a hot stick won’t get you a slot on a Champions team if you don’t put in the effort to show up and work hard.” The three heavy weapons champions’ teams are listed below:

Unbelted Champions: the first War Point of Pennsic 44, this battle held immediately after Opening Ceremonies features a total of 40 fighters per side, none of whom may be Knights or Masters at Arms.

Belted Champions: immediately after the Unbelted Champions battle, it features 30 fighters per side, all of whom are either Knights or Masters at Arms.

Matched Champions: immediately after the Belted Champions battle, it features 30 fighters from each side who have not fought in either the belted or unbelted tournaments. In this battle, fighters are sent out in small groups of 1-5 fighters, with numbers matched by the opposing side.

Photo by Lady Valentina de la Volpe.

Arts and Sciences:

This war point will be held on Wednesday of War week throughout the day, and features 14 artisans per side. The A&S Champions may not be Laurels. Queen Gabrielle says “We are trying to showcase artisans from the more remote parts of the Kingdom who don’t have as much opportunity to have their work seen, although we also want to showcase some well-known artisans and challenge them to come up with something really special and unique.” To help Their Majesties find such skilled but lesser known artisans, the Kingdom A&S Ministers, Master Fridrikr Tomasson and Mistress Orianna Fridrikskona have been hosting A&S Displays at events around the kingdom, where artisans are encouraged to enter works in progress and seek feedback from other artisans and the populace. Her Majesty notes, “Rather than spending six months working on something and then find out that you could have done something different at the beginning, we thought it would be helpful for artisans to get feedback during the process of creating something. Master Fridrikr and Mistress Orianna printed up booklets for comments that We and they have been sharing with those who want to have their work displayed.” Mistress Euriol of Lothian, who is coordinating the A&S Champions for Pennsic, set up a Facebook page for the A&S Champions, where the artisans who have been selected so far are sharing their research, discussing their efforts to create or purchase supplies, equipment, tools, and ingredients for their projects, and generally encouraging each other.

Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.

Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.

Archery Champions

There will be 30 Archery Champions per side, with the shoot held on Wednesday of War week. King Timothy has appointed THLord Juan Miguel Cézar as Captain of the Archery Champion’s Team, and tasked him with choosing the members of the team. His Lordship says, “Enthusiasm is definitely one of the criteria that His Majesty impressed upon me that he feels is an important attribute for each member of the Archery Champion’s team to have. The chance to shoot with some of the best archers in the Known World is both daunting and exhilarating at the same time, and can really make a huge impact on a person and their relationship with the SCA. An experience like this has a chance to take a blossoming archer and give them a long lasting sense of belonging in the archery community. That does not mean that skill and prowess are to be thrown out the window, it just means that such things are a secondary criterion. Also being considered is the disposition of the archer. We want to avoid people who are sore losers or cannot get along with the other archers. Often the champions shoot takes 6 to 8 hours to complete and that can be trying on anyone.” THL Juan Miguel also noted that the kinds of shoots that archers encounter in the Champion’s Tournament challenge archers in unusual ways. “One might think that Royal Round scores would serve as a good metric, but I have found that more often than not it is an untrue measure of skill. The Champions’ shoot tests an archer in ways a Royal Round never can. Once we have a list of potential archers, we will have them come out to the range one or two nights for some practice to be better able to gauge their aptitude for this type of competition. After that comes the hard part of choosing the candidates that have the best combination of spirit and skill to add to the team, and of course negotiating with our allies, who will also contribute archery champions.”

Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.

Rapier

As Rapier Warlord, Maestro Orlando di Bene del Vinta will recommend the fencers who should represent Æthelmearc to Their Majesties. As with the other champions, Their Majesties have asked him to find people with enthusiasm and passion as well as skill. Maestro Orlando says, “I will be recommending individuals who demonstrate prowess as well as dedication to the rapier community through their participation and activity. Simply winning a particular tournament does not guarantee that a recommendation will follow, or that one will be named to the team. Additionally, Their Majesties and I will be looking at who would represent Æthelmearc well on the field; meaning a fencer who is very honorable in combat, comports themselves well on the field, and fights well.” There are two Rapier Champions’ Tournaments:

Rapier Champions: 20 fencers will represent each side in this battle, to be held on Wednesday at 11 am.

Rapier Heroic Champions: 12 fencers from each side will compete one-on-one in this War Point, with at least one of the bouts to be Cut & Thrust. It will be held immediately after the Rapier Champions Battle on Wednesday.

Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope

Thrown Weapons

Master Augusto Giuseppe da San Donato will lead the Thrown Weapons team, choosing those throwers whose commitment as well as skill exemplifies the best of Æthelmearc and its allies. Twelve throwers from each side will compete in this war point to be held on Wednesday of War week from 3:00-6:00 pm. Master Giuseppe has contacted the Thrown Weapons Marshals of the Allied Kingdoms and asked them to send him a list of their all of their throwers who are going to Pennsic so he can reach out to them. He will be hosting a series of try-outs in the evenings early in the War. These try-outs will be open to everyone from Æthelmearc and our allied kingdoms. Throwers who are interested in trying out should look for a note regarding days and times at the Thrown Weapons tent. The prospective Champions will throw for a couple of hours at each try-out so they can be observed by the allied marshals. Master Giuseppe says they “will be looking for people who embody their Kingdoms down to their soul.” They want people who teach, work well with others, and learn from each other as well as exhibiting skill. He will choose the top 12 throwers plus three or four alternates for the Champion’s team. Master Giuseppe notes that three years ago, which was the last time Pennsic pitted Æthelmearc against the combined forces of the East and Middle, Æthelmearc and our allies outscored the other side by more than double. He is very proud of that, and expects our team to do equally well this year.

Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope

Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope wrote this article with contributions from Their Majesties, King Timothy and Queen Gabrielle, THLord Juan Miguel Cezar, Maestro Orlando di Bene del Vinta, Master Fridrikr Tomasson, and Master Augusto Giuseppe da San Donato.

Peers with Swords: Maestro Dante di Pietro

15 Monday Jun 2015

Posted by aethgazette in Fencing

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fencing, rapier

By Don William Parris.

This will be the first in a series of interviews with peers of the rapier world, throughout the Society. I have spoken with representatives of the Order of the Laurel and the Order of Defense, digging into their experiences and perspectives on the evolution of the fencing world. While there is an admirable company of these respected individuals in our Kingdom of Ӕthelmearc, I have approached several more from our neighbors in the Midrealm, Atlantia, and the East. I hope these interviews offer an interesting look through the eyes of rapier fighters that have risen to the prestigious rank of Peer of the Realm.

Cover of Maestro Dante’s Book. Photo by Shutterbug’s Creations at Shutterbugscreations.com

Maestro Dante di Pietro

Credentials and History: Your titles, places you lived, accomplishments. Who made you a Laurel? (Basically, who are you?)

Oh, wow. I’m going to start out with a huge cheat and link you to my precedence page: here. Ha! That just saved me about 10 minutes. Mumble mumble handwave something about a smaller tempo metaphor.

In terms of accomplishments unrelated to my awards list, I’ve been a Queen’s Champion and King’s Champion, Atlantia’s Deputy Minister of Arts and Sciences for Historic Martial Arts, and am presently the Society Deputy Minister of Arts and Sciences for Historic Combat Studies. I’ve won a bunch of tournaments, some at Pennsic, but most of those won’t mean much to people outside of my own kingdom.

I also published this recently, which I suppose has more of “who I am” in it than anything else I could offer: On Historical Fencing with the Rapier and Dagger

Maestro Dante has since been issued a writ to consider elevation to the Order of Defense, to sit vigil on June 20 at the Stierbach Baronial Birthday in Atlantia.

Focus of Study: What style or master have you researched and trained in? Is it one particular style, or a family of them?

Broadly speaking, my focus is in Italian rapier as taught by the Big Three of Fabris, Capoferro, and Giganti. I specialize in and teach Capoferro, though Fabris has been a huge source of understanding for theory.

What drew you to/interested you in this style/master/family?

This is a little embarrassing, but the honest truth is that when I started to have an interest, Kirby had already translated Capoferro and Leoni had just translated Fabris, and I have an Italian persona… so essentially I went with what was available at the time. By the time the Thibault translation, or any of the other perfectly wonderful options came out, I was 2 years into my research and didn’t want to change horses midstream. I went with the Italians because they were what I could order on Amazon.

What were your goals as you studied and practiced? What effect did you intend?

At the start, I really just wanted to be a better fencer and win more, and more decisively. The Fabris manual came out at about the same time that Atlantia’s White Scarves got hit by a wave of injuries, real life job stuff, World of Warcraft, and newborn children, and I was only four years in and eager to learn more. I decided that taking over and learning independently was my best option, and read that book cover-to-cover 4 or 5 times, and then started looking at every available resource I could find to supplement it. I settled on Capoferro because I conceived of it as “Fabris, but upright” and have some hip problems that make Fabris prohibitive. Capoferro is not really just “Fabris, but upright”, and I’ve since added a layer or two of “Dante’s personal strategic preferences”, but I set out to be as much of a purist as possible.

I eventually started teaching classes and pushing the message for HMA pretty hard once I realized just how effective this stuff is, and how few people were doing anything with it. I thought of it like a real-life version of Tekken or Street Fighter (bear with me here, this works, I promise), where most of us were button mashing, some of us had figured out which buttons to mash to do certain things, and here are these guides to the full moves list that most people were just not bothering to read. The real world is more nuanced than that, but really, if you’re a new fencer, you can skip literal years of trial and error by going straight to these resources.

A Pennsic champion.

What challenges did you face/ overcome to be at a place worthy of recognition by the Laurels? Do you still feel those challenges?

In terms of research and knowledge, the biggest challenge was never
committing myself to an interpretation until I was absolutely certain I was right, and then still being willing to drop it and move on if presented with a better idea. You can’t be stubborn. You have to be willing to abandon an idea you’ve held for 5 years if it’s wrong. Sink the costs and go forward.

Outside of that, I’m really, really good at compartmentalizing and grew up in Connecticut, which means that navigating Southern culture has been a challenge. I’m from a part of the country where shouting during an argument doesn’t actually mean you’re angry, and just because the argument is heated doesn’t mean we can’t go right back to normal 5 minutes from now when it’s over. That does not work that way down here, even a little bit. When in Rome, and all that.

Had the A&S community interacted with you about your practice? Did the Laurels ever talk to you about your work?

Once I ended up as the HMA Deputy, I had a lot more interaction with the administrative side of things. There are plenty of Laurels who fence, so it wasn’t too tough getting exposure. It was important to not only know my stuff, but to make it abundantly clear that I know my stuff. For example, I taught a 6 hour long Capoferro seminar at our Kingdom Arts and Sciences Festival. Several Laurels came by to observe for a bit, so it probably helped my case. I mention this because one trend I have noticed in the A&S polling orders I am in is that a lot of people don’t understand that they have to market their skills. Renown doesn’t just happen on its own, and I could go back through my email archives for the last 7 years and probably find three dozen examples of people who don’t display, don’t have a website, don’t teach classes, and don’t do these things despite direct suggestions. The bottom line is that if you want the recognition, you have to be recognizable.

Receiving his Laurel. Photo by Llwyd Aldrydd

How did you feel when you were asked to join the Laurels? Were you surprised?

It’s a very powerful and moving experience in that it is a final step that is really the beginning of a new set of responsibilities. I have often said that you have to earn the awards, and then you have to deserve them. That’s usually more work than earning them.

I am usually not “surprised” by awards. I don’t mean that I know they’re coming, but just that when I am called in to court I have a pretty good idea as to why. The only exception was my Pearl, which I received only a couple of months after my Coral Branch, so going from an Order of Merit (AoA) to Order of High Merit (GoA) so quickly was a surprise.

Has being a Laurel changed your perspective on study and training, and, if so, how? How has it changed your role in the community?

The only real change is that if I ever have any apprentices, I have a pretty solid plan in place for them to follow and would have the expectation that they do so. No takers, so far. Ha! I am a horrible taskmaster.

This next bit is something that you might not believe and won’t fully understand if you’re not a peer: peerage changes everything. All of the peers reading this just nodded. I would need a whole essay on how much that changes your role and interactions. It’s everything.

What advice would you give those interested in, or are already involved with historic combat?

Read the manual and then do what it says. Don’t argue with it. Trust the system you’ve chosen and follow it, utterly and completely.

Do you feel there is a place for the fencing Laurels in the greater Western Martial Arts/Historical European Martial Arts community?

I think all of those groups are dependent more on the individual’s abilities rather than titles. If you get into any system that has credentialing and ranks and whatever, you realize pretty quickly that they mean certain things and not other things. A black belt doesn’t mean you’re an awesome fighter, but it probably means that you have a
good understanding of that martial art. An NCAA wrestling champion is a judo white-belt, but can probably thrash a lot of black belt judokas despite not knowing much judo. At the end of the day, the titles, awards, credentials, and whatever else you have don’t mean as much as what you personally bring to the table. I am all about effectiveness
as the bottom line.

Do you feel the introduction of the Order of Defense has changed your role in the community?

Nope. I love that there’s finally a step up for the people who exceed the White Scarf, but HMA (historical martial arts) are not a requirement for the Order of Defense.

Receiving a writ for the Order of Defense. Photo by Tannis Baldwin

Receiving a writ of summoning for the Order of Defense. Photo by Tannis Baldwin

Event Report: Æthelmearc War Practice XXVI, Canton of Steltonwald, May 14-17, A.S. 50

22 Friday May 2015

Posted by aethgazette in Archery, Arts & Sciences, Event Reports, Fencing, Heavy List, Thrown Weapons, Youth Activities

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archery, arts & sciences, Courts, fencing, Heavy List, thrown weapons, War Practice, War Practice Classes, Youth combat

Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope reports on the multitude of goings-on that took place at Æthelmearc War Practice.

This year’s Æthelmearc War Practice, hosted by the Canton of Steltonwald on May 14 – 17, was slightly dryer and much warmer than last year, leading to good fighting and fun. As always, the event was packed with both martial and peaceful activities.

Heavy Fighting

Christian G vs Sir Olaf Gage Meet Oriography

Lord Christian Goldenlok vs. Sir Óláfr Þorvarðarson. Photo by Lady Àine ny Allane.

Heavy combat kicked off Friday with the Gage Meet ‘n’ Beat, which saw participants testing their mettle against the members of the Kingdom’s Grant level award for fighting. The weather was warm but pleasant and fighters enjoyed the opportunity to learn from some of the best unbelted fighters in the Kingdom.

On Saturday morning, the 10-man unbelted melee tournament had six teams fight a round-robin competition that was won by members of the household of Woodland Watch, who were undefeated. Afterward, Woodland Watch’s 10-man team fought a melee against the Chivalry.

Video courtesy of Baron Richard Larmer

Later there were bridge battles and open field battles with the Kingdom Warlord, Sir Steffan Ulfkellson, devising training scenarios for the fighters. About 150-175 fighters participated in the day’s combat, which ended with pickup fights just before the afternoon rainstorm hit.

Photo by Lady Àine.

On Sunday morning a group of about 20 fighters braved the rain to compete in the Kingdom Rattan Champion’s Tourney. Once two simultaneous round robin tournaments were done, there were two semi-finalists from each list: Sir Thomas Byron of Haverford, Baron Vladisla Nikulich, THLord Tegrinus de Rhina, and Sir Ariella of Thornbury. After defeating Baron Vlad, Sir Byron ended up facing his wife, Sir Ariella, in the finals, since she had bested Lord Tegrinus. This led to much amusement by the populace, including a few slightly ribald jokes, but the finals were fiercely fought.

Video by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope

Sir Byron ended up the winner and was proclaimed Kingdom Champion, accepting the regalia from the outgoing Champion, Sir Arnthor, who had been knighted the previous morning.

Rapier

Friday night offered a rapier tournament called “There Can Be Only One.” This Highlander-themed tournament debuted at Ian’s Inn in the Shire of Ballachlagan two years ago. At War Practice, six teams of two fought a round-robin style tournament. As the sun faded over the hills, one team remained undefeated: Master Lodovick of Grays Inn and his cadet, Lord Jacob of Dunmore – but there could be only one! These two then had to fight each other in two out of three passes with the only killing blow being a cut to the neck. Master Lodovick won the tournament.

Saturday had roughly 40 fencers from four different kingdoms participate in various melee scenarios that were loosely based upon battles and skirmishes of the Great Pilgrimage, later to be known as the First Crusade. The warm up scenarios consisted of last man standing open field battles which represented the advancement to Constantinople and Emperor Alexius’ forces attempting to slow them down. This was then followed by a regicide battle where opposing forces had unlimited resurrections to attack and defend the unarmed “kings.” Later the Siege of Nicea, a dispute over the Orontes River, made for an interesting tower and bridge battle where the fencers attacked and defended bridges full of choke points and kill pockets.

Photo by Zyla of Sebastion’s Place.

After lunch, the fencers reconvened with some capture the flag scenarios. After six hours of rapier battles the fencers dropped with smiles on their faces. The marshal in charge, THLord AElric Ravenshaw, reports, “There were no major issues in calibration and all kingdoms involved celebrated with great camaraderie.”

Many fencers also attended the vigil for Don Orlando di Bene del Vinta, where he “Played the Prize” for his Master of Defense.

Another item of note on the rapier field: Lord Durante de Caravaggio challenged Don Mark le Gabler for the Sylvan Iron Ring and won the fight along with possession of the ring. The Iron Ring passes from fencer to fencer; the current holder may be challenged by another fencer at any time, and if he or she loses, the ring passes to the winner. Don Mark held the ring from July of A.S. 49 until Lord Durante won it from him this past weekend. The Iron Ring Challenge was created in 2006; you can see a list of the holders here.

Youth Fighting

The Kingdom Youth Champion’s tournament drew a dozen enthusiastic and energetic fighters ranging in age from 6 to 14. Thanks to King Timothy, the youth fighters had the honor of fighting within the same list barriers as had been used at Crown Tournament two weeks earlier. The youth fighters were the second group to ever use these new list railings and flags, which were made by members of the Shire of Hartstone as a gift to the Kingdom.

His Majesty addresses the youth fighters before the tourney. Photo by Mistress Arianna.

After round robin tournaments for division 1 and divisions 2 and 3 combined were completed, the finalists were Ian and Henry in the division 1 list and El Tigre and Ulf in the division 2/3 list. The finals were fought best two of three, with Henry and Ulf proving victorious.

Ian vs. Henry in the Division 1 Finals, which were won by Henry. Photo by Arianna.

El Tigre fighting Ulf in the Division 2/3 finals. Photo by Arianna.

El Tigre fighting Ulf in the Division 2/3 finals, which were won by Ulf. Photo by Arianna.

After the tournament, Her Majesty Queen Gabrielle gave each fighter a token, and recognized El Tigre for his chivalry with a ring from her finger, while the marshal in charge, Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope, bestowed her token for chivalry on Aodhan. All of the populace observing the tournament marveled at the courtesy and camaraderie of the youth list. Youth fighting was capped with melees that included throwing axes and javelins.

Mistress Arianna wishes to thank all of the marshals and MoLs who assisted with the youth tournament: Sir Thorgrim, Lord Peregrine, Lady Ceindrech, Lord Aodhan, Lord Weasel, Lord Brillo, THLady Zoe, Baroness Elizabeth, and Baron Rodrigo, as well as the list runners, Lady Ida and the young girl whose name was, alas, not recorded.

Thrown Weapons

Photo by Lady Valentina.

Thrown weapons marshal Lord Aidan Gunn reports that the thrown weapons range was pretty laid back this year, with about 20 to 25 throwers over the course of the event, of which 8 were new people who came to the range for the first time. There were 2 spear targets and 7 wood butts available for throwers. One of the wood targets met its demise at the edge of a heavy axe, cracking down the middle with the first throw and finally splitting in half.

Lord Aidan wishes to thank Lord Haldor Bildrr, Lord Robert Bakere, Master Charles of Alden, and Leo and Collin from the East Kingdom for their help on the range.

Archery

The Archery range, run by Maistir Brandubh O Donghaile, offered several challenges at which the winners got their choice from the cooler of delicious things. The range was open Thursday afternoon and all day Friday and Saturday.

Photo by Master Alaxandair.

Around 80 archers participated across the weekend. The afternoon rains did scare many archers away, but youth archer Bijon of Sylvan Glen stayed through the rain to complete his challenge for the opportunity to raid the goody box. The grass was short but still ate up arrows, so many sad archers left the range with quivers much lighter than when they arrived.

Arts & Sciences

The event also featured over 40 classes on topics as diverse as fiber arts, blacksmithing, music, illumination, costuming, and equestrian arts. Some of the more interesting class titles included “Poisons! Assassins!,” “So You Think You’re Japanese in Court,” and “20 Songs That Should Be in Your Bard Book.”

On Saturday afternoon, numerous gentles displayed their creations in the Great Hall, including the entries shown below. Those who could do so stayed to educate the populace on their arts; perhaps the most interesting was THLord Ambros Kyrielle, who taught those stopping by his display how to draw the labyrinths that he famously creates in chalk all over the pavement of Cooper’s Lake at Pennsic.

Armor by Lord Enzo de Pazzi. Photo by Master Fridrikr av Knusslig Hamn.

Armor by Lord Enzo de Pazzi. Photo by Master Fridrikr Tomasson av Knusslig Hamn.

Metal casting by Lady Edana the Red. Photo by Master Fridrikr.

Loom by Lady Alfrun ketta. Photo by Master Fridrikr.

Lady Edana the Red’s metal casting. Photo by Master Fridrikr.

County scroll for HRH Magnus Tindal by THLady Ismay Ponde. Photo by Master Fridrikr.

Embroidered slippers by Mistress Gillian Llewellyn. Photo by Master Fridrikr.

Ceramic tiles made by Lord Ian Campbell. Photo by Master Fridrikr.

Lord Otto Boese’ leatherworking. Photo by Master Fridrikr.

Courts

In a short court Friday evening, King Timothy and Queen Gabrielle sent Baron Robert of Sugargrove on vigil for the Laurel and THLord Arnthor inn Sterki on vigil for Knighthood.

Saturday began with a brief morning court where Don Orlando di Bene del Vinta was sent to “Play the Prize” for his Master of Defense, while Their Majesties bestowed Æthelmearc’s fourth Writ for the Order of Defense upon the Kingdom’s Rapier Marshal, Baron Benedict Fergus atte Mede.

As the final piece of business at morning court, THL Arnthor was knighted on the field to the acclaim of the populace.

King Timothy dubs Sir Arnthor. Photo by Lady Valentina.

King Timothy dubs Sir Arnthor. Photo by Lady Àine.

At Saturday evening court, Their Majesties welcomed Brennan, the newly invested Crown Prince of the East, who presented gifts to the King and Queen. Prince Brennan also warmly greeted Prince Tindal, as they had become friends during their last reigns. Their Majesties bestowed Golden Alces and Sycamores on numerous deserving gentles, and invested Their new Youth Combat Champions, Henry and Ulf, thanking Their outgoing Champions, Stephen and Otto, for their service.

Henry and Ulf are invested as Youth Champions. Photo by Master Alaxandair O’Conchobhair.

Baron Robert of Sugargrove was elevated to the Order of the Laurel for his skill in woodworking, making the Kingdom thrones, and Don Orlando di Bene del Vinta was inducted as Æthelmearc’s second member of the Order of Defense.

Baron Robert of Sugargrove is made a Laurel. Photo by Lady Valentina.

Don Orlando is made Æthelmearc’s second Master of Defense. Photo by THLady Sophie Davenport.

The surprise of the night was when Their Majesties called forward Mistress Cunen Beornhelm and presented her with a Writ of Summons to the Chivalry, which his Majesty remarked that he had wanted to do for many years. Once elevated, Mistress Cunen will become Æthelmearc’s third female knight.

Mistress Cunen Beornhelm receives a Writ for the Chivalry. Photo by Master Alaxandair.

After Kingdom Court, the Baron and Baroness of the Debatable Lands, Liam and Constance, held a brief baronial court where they inducted several deserving gentles into baronial orders, and then announced to their populace’s sadness that they will be stepping down as Baron and Baroness next winter. The baronial election process will begin with nominations in June.

Event Wrap-up

As always, Sunday featured the Pick-a-Prize Raffle run by House Tuatha Fieran with proceeds to benefit the kingdom, and breakfast was served both Saturday and Sunday mornings in the Great Hall by members of the Shire of Gryffyn’s Keep.

Sunday morning’s rain gave way to sun so event-goers were able to pack their tents in reasonable comfort, happy to have experienced a fun event courtesy of the Autocrat, Lady Cionaodh Gunn, and her enormous staff of volunteers.

This report was compiled with assistance from a great many people, including THLord AElric Ravenshaw, Maistir Brandubh O Donnghaile, Master Fridrikr av Knusslig Hamn, Lord Aidan Gunn, and all of the photographers credited above.

The Æthelmearc Gazette

~ Covering the Kingdom of Æthelmearc of the SCA

Tag Archives: fencing

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