2018 is the 20th anniversary of Endless Hills becoming a Barony. In celebration, Their Excellencies, Verde and Fiona, have declared that there will be a Year of Tournaments, culminating in a Grand Tournament on January 1st, 2019. January 23rd saw the first qualifying tournaments.
Don Po ran the first Fencing Tournament. We had a great turn-out with 10 fencers coming in from groups across Æthelmearc and the East Kingdom to fence in the tournament. The format was a “Throw Me Under the Bus,” Bear Pit. The fencers fought their first two bouts like a traditional bear pit, but if they made it to their third fight, the fencer got to pick their opponent from anyone in line. The competition was furious, but in the end there must be a victor and that victor was Lord Lucha Delion of ACG. Initially tied for second place were Lady Jenevieve Spillane of Hartshorn, Dale, and Curt the Confused of Endless Hills, with Lady Jenevieve edging out second place. Lord Lucha also walked away with the Bragging Stick of Endless Hills. If you want it, track him down and challenge him for it.
On the Heavy side there were six heavy fighters who competed. It was a standard best of three Round Robin tournament. Completion was as close as it could be, with three fighters tying for the win: THL Lotharius, Lord Ulfkell Dongelsson, and Baron Cormacc mac Gilla Brigde. The three went into a sudden death round. First up were THL Lothar and Baron Cormacc, with Lothar coming out on top. Next up, Baron Cormacc fought Lord Ulfkell, with Cormacc taking the victory. The third match was THL Lothar against Lord Ulfkell, with Ulfkell coming out on top. Once again, a tie. This forced yet another round. After 2 very dramatic tie-breaker rounds, Baron Cormacc squeaked out a victory, with THL Lothar finishing second and Lord Ulfkell third.
Lord Lucha and Baron Cormacc are the first to earn one of the 16 spots for the Grand Tournaments.
There will be plenty more opportunities to earn a spot. There will be a Fencing Tourney the first Tuesday of every month and a heavy tournament the third Tuesday of every month in 2018. These tournaments are open to all combatants who are authorized in the fighting style that they are competing in. Both will be at 8pm with doors opening at 7pm, at the Jackson Township Fire Hall, 1160 Chase Road, Shavertown, PA 18708. Come help the Endless Hills celebrate the Year of Tournaments!
THLady Ursula of Rouen, Kingdom Authorizations Clerk
So, you’re going to Pennsic this year and want to fight or fence? Make sure your paperwork is in order before you leave by following these tips:
Your Primary Authorization must be complete and dated on or before July 24, 2016. A primary authorization is your first authorization in any martial discipline. Any authorization paperwork for a primary form dated after July 24, 2016 will not be mailed out until Wednesday of War Week to help keep Æthelmearc in compliance with Pennsic rules.
All authorization forms are turned into the Kingdom Authorizations Clerk by July 17, any forms in hand that day will be mailed out on Tuesday, July 19, 2016. Note: This cutoff is before the primary authorization cutoff. If you miss this cutoff you can keep your paper copy of your authorization form to use at Pennsic. We recommend sending a digital scan or copy of your paperwork to the Authorizations Clerk before leaving for War just in case.
The Authorizations Clerk’s address is THLady Ursula of Rouen, c/o Ms. Danielle M. Duvall, PO Box 661, Shepherdstown, WV 25443. A self-addressed, stamped envelope is never required, but always appreciated.
Please check your card now to see if it has expired or will expire prior to August 14, 2016, and please complete the paperwork for a renewal now. No need to wait until the card is close to expiration.
Keep a copy of your paperwork in a safe place; whether it is a brand new authorization, an additional form, or a renewal, plan to have that paperwork on your person for use at Pennsic in case your card does not make it to you before you leave for vacation.
It’s a good idea to make a copy of your authorization card/paperwork, and photo ID, put in a Ziploc baggie and tape to the back of your shield, or keep in your armor bag. You’ll need these along with your medallion to get inspected at Pennsic.
If you need to reach THLady Ursula regarding your Authorization Card, or if you have any questions her e-mail address is ursula.of.rouen@gmail.com. You may also call before 10pm at 540-287-1748. Please do not send Facebook messages as those get lost in the shuffle.
Once again, we invite all to brave the wintry cold and fight singles and then melee all afternoon on St. Valentine’s Day!
The Muster will run from 1 to 5pm on Sunday, Feb. 14 this year (we changed our initial choice of date to avoid the Superbowl). The location is the same as in previous years: Marshall Elementary School gym at 5135 Wexford Run Rd, Wexford PA 15090. Your hosting marshals are Your Royal Highnessess, Byron and Ariella (caram@pitt.edu or 724-933-4661). Be prompt for the one-on-one fighting, followed by melees in a gym large enough for at least 70 fighters.
Youth Fighting will run from 1pm to 3pm. Adult sparring marshals, if you were authorized two or more years ago, this is a good opportunity to renew your authorization to fight against youth under the supervision of a Youth Combat Marshal. Adult fighters who wish to become sparring marshals should contact the Kingdom Youth Combat Marshal, Sir Thorgrim Skullsplitter. For more information on becoming a sparring marshal, see the Æthelmearc Youth Combat website.
Please no smoking on school property, soft-soled shoes on the gym floor, and only water in the gym and outside hallway, which became the kids’ hangout/arts area last year.
Donations are appreciated to defray the cost of gym rental. We are looking forward to seeing everyone!
Yours In Service,
Byron and Ariella, Prince and Princess
This report was written by Lord Magnus de Lyons, Lady Miriel du Lac, Duke Timothy of Arindale.
From Lord Magnus:
On a chilly fall morning a small group of intrepid members from the Rhydderich Hael headed south to experience the A&E War (aka the Corn Maze) hosted by Shire of Abhainn Ciach Ghlais. The event boasted “More fighting and fencing than anyone should ever do in a week, all in one weekend,” and let me tell you it did not disappoint. Sadly, due to time constraints I was only able to attend Saturday’s portion of the festivities but I certainly came away fulfilled.
The setting for the event was Ard’s Farm in Lewisburg Pennsylvania. Ard’s farm is a large farm market with a country store, gift shop, and full restaurant, but the key feature of the farm was the massive ten-acre corn maze that would provide the stage for the day’s martial activities (honestly the place would be a wonderful day trip just on its own). The corn maze was divided into two sections; a large section that was set aside for heavy combat and a small section reserved for fencing (don’t let the word small mislead you; it was just as confusing as the large section). Surrounding the corn maze was a small collection of tents and pavilions for the combatants and staff including a rather welcoming fire pit. This was a three day event, so for people looking to stay the duration the site offered primitive onsite camping.
Photo by Baroness Ellesbeth Donofrey.
My choice of activity for the day was heavy combat in the larger maze. I have not had the chance to get into armor since Pennsic so I was excited to suit up and get into the action. Once I was in armor and inspected I was lucky enough to run into some friendly faces. Joining my friends on the red team we headed into the maze. Having no prior knowledge of the maze it was pretty easy to get turned around even when using visible landmarks on the outside of the maze. The “tunnels” of the maze offered a challenging but not overly restrictive area to fight and was ripe with choke points, pockets, and three or four way battle points. Spears seemed very useful and popular but I was able to wield my pole arm without difficulty. Combat archery was allowed in every battle and added a nice “stay vigilant or die” element to the scenarios. Hats off to the combat archers who participated and I hope they found all their ammo at the end of the day
Heavy Combat Report by Duke Timothy:
Are you tired of the typical melee event? Do you find yourself shortly before lay on is called saying: Field battle, bridge battle, field battle, bridge battle, boring, boring, boring, boring! If you did not make it out to this years’ A/E War, you missed an opportunity to do something completely out of the ordinary. His Majesty Tindal and Their Highnesses Byron and Ariella joined nearly one hundred combatants gathered from five separate kingdoms at a small farm in Abhainn Ciach Ghlais. There, these warriors fought and fenced battles that were anything but the ordinary.
A ten-acre maze carved out of a corn field featuring thousands of feet of corridors, each 6 to 8 feet wide, provided a battlefield that allowed for combat far outside everyone’s usual comfort zone. It wasn’t what anyone would describe as high medievalism, but everyone present seemed to have had a great time and they all left with a smile on their faces.
Photo by Ursus.
The initial heavy battle consisted of roughly thirty fighters per side playing a game we named “polearm polo.” Sir Timothy, Viceroy Gui, and His Lordship Brada dropped a “puck,” (a 3’ diameter rubber ball,) and both teams had to move it using just polearms and greatswords. A point was determined if the puck was moved outside of one of the four maze entrances. Both sides had to take just the right mix of weapons to help score. To add an additional threat, both sides had combat archers. Archers Baron Friderich, Baron Fergus or any of the other combat archers spent the afternoon making the undefended or unprepared fighters’ day miserable. Polearm Polo raged for about an hour, creating numerous amusing situations. In one round, the last person left in a battle at the puck was a sword and shield fighter, and it took about 10 minutes before anyone from either side was able to locate him.
We next ran a five-man melee team free for all. Each team was given three flags, similar to what would have been used in flag football, and then instructed to disperse in the maze. No two teams could work together. After each engagement, all fighters were allowed to heal wounds or revive, and the winning team took one of the losing teams’ flags. This battle lasted for about an hour. A tie was the result, with two teams ending up with six flags each.
We next decided to play Capture the Flag. While every fighter knows how to organize and marshal a bridge or field battle, the marshals were pretty much flying blind. There was some confusion as we tweaked the scenario so that it would be the most fun. We decided to use both ends of a massive wooden bridge in the center of the maze as each team’s resurrection point. Just before lay on was called, a five-man banner unit from each side had thirty seconds to choose a spot to place their banner. The first team to capture the other side’s banner and return it to the bridge received a point. After about an hour or so, we called it at a two to two tie. Of all the day’s events, this scenario seemed to be the highlight of everyone’s fighting.
Photo by Ursus.
At this point we had been fighting for four solid hours, and we allowed folks to take a dinner break. Considering how many people gorged themselves on ribs/brisket/steak, I was quite pleased to see how few folks had disappeared when we started to fight again a couple of hours later, under the massive banks of lights that the site provided. As is now traditional, we needed to select a corn maze winner to receive the lovely scroll produced by Nemenia filia Hweli, known as Nyfain merch Coel. Each fighter was given 3 resurrections, and we had a free for all in the so-called children’s section of the maze (kind of fitting, considering that many of the fighters were giggling like idiots). When the smoke cleared, Sir Havouc was the sole survivor. What is a maze without a Minotaur? Or in our case, several? We decided to take a few of the more senior fighters and give them special abilities and see how long they could last against the bulk of the fighters, who were given unlimited resurrection. Well, when you are allowed to literally walk through the maze walls and kill from behind, it can take quite a while. Our initial crew of 5 Minotaurs, HRM Magnus Tindal, Duke Gregor, Sir Tash, Master Wulfstan the Unshod, Sir Murdoc and Sir Havouc weren’t enough of a challenge, so we added a few more. This made for a laugh riot. The Minotaurs succumbed, but it took quite a while for 30 some heavies to kill 8 or 9 Minotaurs. We did a couple side A vs. side B meat grinders, but everyone was anxious for the grand finale, our now famous (or infamous) zombie scenario. Each fighter was given an unbroken glow stick, and instructed to wander into the maze and find a spot where that they were comfortable. Then once each person was given sufficient time to wander, they were allowed to break their glow sticks; red sticks/red team, blue sticks/blue team. As a marshal, from my vantage point safe on top of the bridge in the maze’s center, it was amusing to see the occasional red in a sea of blue and vice/versa. We used the bridge as a resurrection point, and just had the fighters fight for the sake of fighting. One fighter was coached that he was patient zero; when he died, he came back as a zombie, and all his kills joined his side. Once a sufficient number of zombies had been spawned, we declared humanity’s last stand, and everyone laughed as heavies with glow sticks were slowly swamped by fighters screaming “brains”. Around 10pm, the fighters declared that they had finally had enough, about 10 hours after the initial lay on. As I said before, not what I would call high medievalism, but everyone left with a smile.
Prince Byron. Photo by Ursus.
Fencing Report by Lady Miriel:
I have been excited about this event since I read people’s war stories from last year: the night-time zombie battles, BBQ, stories by the camp fire, and just being able to run around in a corn maze sounded like a spectacular time. So when I read that there would be fencing scenarios in the maze as well this year, I was sold!
The day of the event, we arrive and I get geared up and hustle over to the “field,” hoping that I haven’t missed anything. Thankfully I arrived just in time and Lord Andreas Jager von Holstein the fencing marshal for the day, was giving the low down for the first scenario.
Scenario One: The Buckler of Destiny and the Minotaurs.
Teams of three ventured into the maze in search of the mythical Buckler of Destiny. However, in their path stood two fearsome Minotaurs (Don Po Silvertop and His Majesty Magnus Tindel), hell bent on keeping the intrepid teams from ever finding the Buckler.
Many teams entered and fell to the foul beast, but finally the creatures were slain and the victorious team exited the maze with Buckler in hand. The scenario was run once again but with a Holy Mackerel and that item was retrieved by the very first team of three.
Photo by Baroness Ellesbeth.
Scenario Two: Attack and Defend
Two teams of six, with two resurrection points in the maze. One team entered the maze first and placed the Buckler of Destiny in the maze, then set themselves up to defend the Buckler from the attacking team. The defending team had two resurrections while the attacking team had infinite resurrections. Both teams took a turn at being defenders and attackers. The team that could retrieve the Buckler and get it out of the maze the fastest was the victor.
The first defending team decided to set up a kill pocket in an alcove within the maze, the Buckler and res point both directly behind them in the alcove. The attackers went to it, trying to break the defenders’ line and fend off attackers from behind who had lain in wait. Finally, when the defenders’ resurrections were spent, the attackers grabbed the Buckler and removed it from the maze.
When the teams reversed roles, the new defending team placed their buckler and resurrection point at the farthest end of the maze and decided to go with a retreating res. They created a cup of death at the near beginning of the maze and doing their best to just hold off the attackers as long as possible. When a defender fell, they ran to the res point and placed them selves not at the first line of defense but at a new one closer to the location of the Buckler. They did this for both of their resurrections, the last line of defense right at the opening to the alcove bearing the Buckler. It came down to one lone defender, the fierce HL Alianora Bronhulle, holding off the attackers for a good half a minute, giving her team the overall win.
Photo by Baroness Ellesbeth.
Scenario Three: The Adventures and the Zombies
Three noble adventurers entered the maze, going to the farthest point with whatever weapon combos they chose. Then, the zombies entered the maze one at a time every 20 (or so) seconds. Zombies were only able to use one weapon, but could be killed only with a poke to the head. The adventurers had to survive the advancing zombie and make it out of the maze.
Almost all of the three-man teams survived, fending off the brains-hungry zombies. Cries of “Brains’, “Urrr Argh” and “Ready Whip” filled the maze as each zombie was slain on the adventurers’ path out to safety.
The Zombie Scenario was run multiple times until the fighters grew hungry for more than just brains and went to lunch at the outstanding BBQ restaurant on site.
My time doing all of these scenarios was so much fun, I couldn’t have had a more outstanding day. I loved meeting and fighting beside fencers I’ve never had a chance to meet before. I enjoyed working with the teams and working out how to best help my fellow fencers achieve victory. I was able to have some one-on-one bouts with His Majesty, Don Po, Lord Andreas, and more. Each helped me to grow in my skills and just have a damn good fight! I highly enjoyed this event and cannot wait until next year to see what’s in store for the fencers of Æthelmearc and the East.
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 600th 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 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 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 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 7th 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.
Report by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope and Lord Christian Goldenlok.
The Shire of Misty Highlands lived up to its name on Saturday, October 10th, as gentles from all over Æthelmearc wended their way through foggy valleys and across hills just beginning to turn to autumn gold, heading to the site of the Crown Tournament that would determine the successors of the Imperatori, Magnus Tindal and Etain. The mist soon lifted, and the populace was treated to a perfect fall day of bright sunshine, pleasant temperatures, and great deeds of nobility.
The Imperatori, Tindal and Etain, wait for the combatants to process in. Photo by Lady Àine ny Allane.
The day began with the Kingdom Youth Champion’s Tournament. Five enthusiastic youth fighters from Divisions 1 and 2 assembled to hear the words of Their Majesties, then spent almost an hour in joyous combat. The bear-pit tourney allowed all of the young combatants to fight as much as they wished. Their Majesties made it known that they would choose their champions based on chivalry and honor as much as prowess, and the youth fighters responded with great courtesy. In the end, the Imperatori chose Karl Kupferhelbelinc as their Division 1 champion, and Drake Magnusson as their Division 2 champion. The Marshal in Charge, Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope, was assisted by youth marshals Mistress Fredeburg von Katzenellenbogen, Lord Matheus Weasel, Mistress Zoe Akropolitina, and THL Tegrinus de Rhina. The marshals and fighters also appreciated the great efficiency of Mistress Ekaterina Volkova, who tallied the wins and losses as MOL for this fast-moving tournament.
Karl Kupferhelbelinc vs. Drake Magnusson. Photo by Mistress Arianna.
Once the youth fighters finished their tournament, the adults entering Crown Tournament assembled for the Grand Processional. 26 combatants were present to vie for the Crown, and each couple was presented to Their Majesties with a heraldic flourish and many banners flying. Once the procession was complete, Lord Thrain inn riki, who ranked lowest in precedence, set the tone for the day by challenging the highest ranking combatant, Duke Timothy of Arindale. The rest of the fighters then made their challenges and the tournament began.
Duke Duncan and Duchess Ilish process in to the tournament. Photo by Master Alaxandair o Conchobhair.
Long-Winded Tourney Coverage from Lord Christian Goldenlok
At Crown tournament, happiness, excitement, and inspiration were as beautifully abundant as the foliage of the fall season. A blessing from the Kingdom of Atenveldt, it seemed an illuminator gilded the golden sun as it made the fall foliage glow. The stillness of the lake painted the perfect picture of the majesty of our Kingdom.
The laughter of children and the clash of the combatants boomed throughout the valley and out across the lake. Lightning struck with each blow delivered, and when laughter abounded, it echoed so intensely that it seemed the entire Known World’s populace was gathered in fellowship, laughing with us.
The Shire of Misty Highlands was the setting for this most perfect atmosphere, which seemed to emanate the honor and glory of our fall crown tournament. With each passing list runner, herald, fighter, or consort, it was easy to become overwhelmed at just how alive the event was. As its vigor intensified, I found myself stationary, just looking at how the event unfolded before my eyes.
As I entered the site, I was greeted by Lord Arias Beltrane del Valle. He greeted me and directed me to where I would register. A fine southern region lady would accept my troll fee and place around my neck a token of admission. I heard the clanging of pots from the feastocrat, Lady Barbaia, and her helpers, resounding through the hall. I embraced the Autocrat, Mistress Juliana Delamere, who seemed rather popular as she had a line of people asking her about myriad things requiring her attention.
I excused myself and made my way down to the fighting. As I trod, I passed a fine gentle and his wife, Lord Olaf Steinabrjotr and Lady Mckenna Henderson, who were balancing large plates of food and drink to share with the populace. I intercepted them and relieved them of a tray of apples.
As I began my round of randomly serving refreshment, I had the opportunity to observe individuals in their respective pavilions. Canvas tents with pennants flying in the fall breeze framed the lists. In those tents sat the retinues of the fighters they were representing. Fine food spreads on a decorative cloth would be placed on long tables to be shared with others. Laughter and excitement was a common sight.
Since there were only two fighting lists, the populace was treated to an intimate view of the combat. I saw others in support, hurrying about. List runners would retrieve small wooden shields of heraldry from the heraldry tree, then place them on the appropriate list hangers to visually prepare the populace for which list the warriors would be entering.
Photo by Mistress Arianna.
The heralds would set the routine of the bout before and after each fight. Fighters would enter the list, salute the crown, make salutations to their combatants and their consorts, and begin their dance of destiny under the watchful eyes of the marshals. When the fight was concluded, those same list runners would bolt back to the Minister of the Lists (MOL) to report the victors. These ladies would record list advancements, announce who would fight next, and politely remind spectators to remove themselves from in front of the MOL table.
With all of this movement happening simultaneously, it’s truly a wonder that an event of this magnitude was so expertly executed. I attribute this to experience and the willingness to participate from the many volunteers that make these events possible.
The fighting was fierce and honorable, with no willing disregard for honor, courtesy, and chivalry; characteristics that are intrinsic to the Æthelmearc fighting community.
THL Marek vs. Sir Maghnus. Photo by Mistress Arianna.
The semi-finals saw Sir Arnthor inn sterki and Duke Duncan von Halstern emerge with one loss each, while Sir Thomas Byron of Haverford and Count Andreas Morgan were undefeated. Sir Arnthor and Duke Duncan were instructed that they must win twice to advance, but Sir Byron and Count Andreas had other ideas, and defeated their opponents in a single bout each.
Sir Arnthor vs. Sir Byron in the semi-finals. Photo by Master Alaxandair.
In the end, only two brave knights remained. Sir Thomas Byron of Haverford stood the field undefeated. Driven by love for his lady wife, Sir Ariella of Thornbury, and determined to become the heir to the throne of Æthelmearc, he stood opposed by a man who is no stranger to ruling the kingdom, Count Andreas Morgan, fighting for the honor of the beloved Countess Kallista Morgunova.
Two proud sons of Æthelmearc met in the finals of crown tourney with greatsword in hand. The first of three bouts were initiated by the marshal, Count Jehan de la Marche. The first pass saw Sir Byron brought to his knees, then defeated with a thrust to the body by Count Andreas.
Finals between Count Andreas and Sir Byron. First round, great sword. Photo by Master Alaxandair.
Count Andreas chose to keep greatswords for the second match. Lay on was called, and the populace assembled was treated to a match that spanned the entire list field. Through an exchange of blows, and an intense moment of close-in fighting, Sir Byron rose the victor of the second bout.
Second round, great sword. Photo by Master Alaxandair.
Sir Byron chose to exchange his greatsword for a weapon and shield for the third and deciding fight. Count Andreas chose to match his weapons form. With patience, maneuvering, and timing, one well-struck blow to his opponent’s helm ensured victory and the eventual rule of Æthelmearc for Sir Byron.
Third round, sword and shield. Photo by Master Alaxandair.
“I have dreamed, dreamed so often of this moment.” Phrases like these are said everyday. Few however, truly witness what it feels like when others complete their dreams. For Sir Byron and Sir Ariella, those assembled were blessed with a magical and intimate moment in which we were offered a glimpse of what it was like for Sir Byron to complete his dream, or rather, compete and win the honor of actualizing his dream beside his wife. It was truly a moment which I hope will live in the hearts of those assembled for years to come.
Photo by Master Alaxandair.
Photo by Master Alaxandair.
Many heavy fighters such as myself see the battlefield beside their significant others. My fiancée dons armor and literally fights by my side. Many fight beside their spouses in the battlefields of mastering an art or science or the battlefields of service to the kingdom. Many of us journey with the support of our friends, family, and chosen family. Whatever the journey, Sir Byron and Sir Ariella, or rather, Their Royal Highnesses, Prince Byron and Princess Ariella, offer us a look at the top of the mountain. A pinnacle of what it looks like to dedicate their family, years of their lives, their hope, honor, and prowess, to achieve the opportunity to serve the populace of Æthelmearc and indeed the Known World from, eventually, the thrones of Æthelmearc.
You can watch video of the tournament finals and the crowning of Byron and Ariella as Prince and Princess here(with thanks to Master Alaxandair o Conchobhair, videographer).
Prince Byron and Princess Ariella. Photo by Master Alaxandair.
Kudos to the marshals, led by the Earl Marshal, Duchess Tessa the Huntress; the heralds led by the Sycamore Herald, Baron Robert O’Connor; and the list officers led by the Kingdom Mistress of the Lists, Baroness Rynea Ingen of Stormsport, who all did their usual efficient jobs to keep the tournament running smoothly.
THLord Darian Valski, recipient of the Shield of Chivalry. Photo by Lady Àine ny Allane.
After a brief respite, the Imperatori held Their Court, in which they recognized Their Youth Champions and bestowed awards on an array of deserving gentles. The Ladies of the Rose gave tokens to THLord Jussi Laplein and THLady Beatrix Krieger for their honor and courtesy on the field, and then bestowed the Shield of Chivalry on THLord Darian Valski, who was the only unbelted fighter to make it to the quarter-finals of the tournament.
Congratulations to the Autocrats, Mistress Juliana Delamere and Lady Barbaia of Sable Maul, along with their staff and all the people of Misty Highlands for a beautiful event.
King Timothy. Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.
Unto the fighters of the known world who would aspire to one day becoming a knight does Sir Timothy of Arindale, King of Æhelmearc send greetings.
Good gentles, noble warriors. On Thusday July 30th and Friday July 31st I will take the tournament field at Pennsic and I am inviting my brother knights from across the Kown Wrld to join me. I will be on the field from 9am to 5pm, and if there are any one of you who wishes to test yourself against me, I will fight you, train you, spar with you until such time as I have not the energy to lift my sword.
If you want to truly be a knight, with all your heart and soul, show us. I can’t answer for my brothers and sisters, but I would expect enough of them to join me that you will get your fill of combat. Push yourself. Bring your friends. Please spread word of this such that others throughout the known world will join us.
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.
Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope attended the Æthelwald Proving Ground event in the Shire of Sunderoak on June 20, A.S. 50, and reports on the activities held there.
This was the Shire of Sunderoak’s second Æthelwald Proving Ground, which is focused primarily on martial activities. Despite some rain that began in the late morning and persisted for much of the afternoon, the gentles in attendance got a lot of good, fun practice in their respective areas.
Heavy Weapons
Sir Alonzio of the Peacemakers ran a class on spear, and then worked the fighters through a strategy he calls “Piggly Wiggly.” Why? “I’d been working on this strategy for a few years, and people told me I had to give it a name. I thought Piggly Wiggly would be memorable, and it kind of fits since I tend to be dancing around as I demonstrate the technique,” Sir Alonzio said.
Fighters executing the “Piggly Wiggly” strategy.
The Piggly Wiggly strategy is useful in a mixed line of spears and shields, as in a bridge or gate battle. The idea is that as the spears are fencing with each other, a shieldman who spots a weak point in the opposing line can charge through it and create a hole for his team to follow.
Heavy fighters spent the morning working on this technique using a resurrection bridge battle, and then took a break for lunch, returning to work on shield techniques and practice melees using that shieldwork. Sir Steffan Ulfkellson, the Kingdom Warlord, oversaw the heavy muster.
Rapier
After some individual warmup bouts, Maestro Orlando di Bene del Vinta, Kingdom Rapier Warlord, had the fencers focus on small unit techniques, and in particular how to fend off larger numbers. There were rounds of 2-on-1 and 3-on-1 fights, as well as a line battle in which each side’s goal was to push the other backward over a line across the center of the field in order to control that line. Lord Robert MacEwin described it as “kind of like tug of war but with stabbing instead of ropes.”
Countess Elena d’Artois, Lord Cyrus Augur, and Lord Jacob of Dunmore practicing 2-on-1 melees
After each round of fencing, Maestro Orlando had the fencers analyze and discuss what had happened and how to do better, then repeat the exercise so they could learn from the experience.
Maestro Orlando oversees the fencers practicing melee techniques
Youth Combat
Five youth fighters, all Division 1 (ages 6-9), armored up, three of them for their first time. Lady Ceindrech verch Elidir and Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope ran the kids through the rules and showed them how to throw blows and block with shields or weapons, then held an informal bear pit with assistance from Lord Weasel, so each fighter got plenty of bouts in.
New youth fighters learning the rules from Lady Ceindrech
Their spirits undampened by the rain, the youth fighters then fought a series of open field melees with teams in various combinations, including a final melee which was, by the fighters’ request, girls vs. boys. Youth fighting ended with brownies for the combatants and marshals. After removing their armor, the youth fighters announced that they were all friends now, and spent the rest of the afternoon playing together in cheerful camaraderie.
Youth fighter melee
Equestrian
THLady Meadhbh inghean ui Bhaoghill, current King’s Equestrian Champion, organized the equestrian activities, designing and running the morning competition that mirrored the planned Kingdom Equestrian Champion’s course. Mistress Shoshido Tora Gozen commented, “It was a challenge course based on the Devonshire Tapestry, which depicts various hunting scenes through the woods, hunting swans, boars, etc. It included numerous obstacles as well as the traditional tests of skills like the rings and quintain. Riders were allotted a certain amount of time to complete the course, with penalties for going over and points gained for successful completion of each test.” Mistress Gozen won the competition while Lady Tommasa Isolana won the award for the most improvement between rounds one and two.
Mistress Shoshido Tora Gozen and THLady Meadhbh inghean ui Bhaoghill. Photo by Kathleen of Sunderoak.
Unfortunately, the rain caused footing to become treacherous, curtailing the planned afternoon training activities in Mounted to Ground Combat. After the equestrians broke down the course, THL Meadhbh then took Lady Tommasa as her Equerry, or equestrian student, under the Golden Lance.
Lady Maeve ni Siurtain and Mistress Gozen. Photo by Kathleen of Sunderoak.
Cooking
The other big activities of the day were all food-related. The lady Jerngerd from Sunderoak provided a very tasty lunch consisting of mushroom pastries, honeyed chicken, beef stew, lemon cakes, ginger cake, bread, borscht, salt potatoes, various pickled veggies, and cucumbers. Anyone who went home hungry had only themselves to blame as the food was both delicious and plentiful.
In addition, Master Creador Twinedragon ran Creador’s Summer Cooking Challenge, a cooking competition to judge the best dish using summer ingredients based on a medieval recipe. There were two entrants, Rachel MacMichael and THLady Elss of Augsburg. THL Elss won with her Tart of Strawberye, found in Pleyn Delit, which did an excellent job of representing the summer theme. Elss won the prize of a day of service from Master Creador in the kitchen or otherwise. However, Master Creador was also impressed with the three Hungarian dishes of Chicken Paprikash, Nokedli, and Haluski that Rachel entered, so he decided to award her an unannounced prize of a consultation with him on an entry, menu, or research. “I look forward to working with both of them in the future,” said Master Creador.
Despite the rain, the autocrat, Sir Thorgrim Skullsplitter, was pleased with the event. “Everyone had fun, so I’m happy,” he said.
All photos not otherwise credited are by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.
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.
Greetings all Heavy and Youth Fighters!
