Announcement from the current Queen’s Rapier Champion, Lord Robert MacEwin:
The Queen’s Rapier Championship is little more than two weeks away! Here are all the details:
Date: October 1st, 2022 Location: Archers to the Wald Time: Procession will begin lining up at 10:50, start at 11:00.
Tournament will begin immediately following.
TOURNAMENT FORMAT:
Round 1 – Participants will be evenly distributed into four Round-Robin lists. The top two fencers from each list will move on to round 2. Ties will be resolved as necessary with additional fights.
Round 2 – The 8 fencers that have advanced from the first round will fight a double elimination tournament until 2 remain. After that, all deaths will be cleared and those two will move on to the finals. All fights in Round 2 will be best-of-3.
Finals – Best-of-five, rotating forms. The finalist from the winners’ list will choose the first form. Following that, the loser of each bout will choose the form for the next bout.
DOUBLE KILLS:
Round 1 – double kills will be refought once. Further double kills will be scored as a loss for both fighters.
Round 2 – double kills will be refought until there’s a clear victor. However, if you double kill more than once, we will start taking things from each fencer (secondaries, arms, etc.)
Finals – double kills will be refought until there is a clear victor.
SPECIAL WEAPONS FORMS:
Cut and Thrust – Any pair of fencers that wishes to fight C&T is welcome to do so. When you sign in, please let the MoL know that you wish to fight C&T, and we’ll try to pool you with other C&T fighters.
Spear – Since spear is still new, we’ll allow it, but require opponent’s consent. In any fight within the tournament, if you’re authorized and your opponent is cool with it, you’re welcome to fight spear. If you are not interested in fighting against spear, that is totally fine! Due to limited list space, spears must be no more than 6 feet long.
Here begins the report of the Court of Gareth and Julianna, King and Queen of Æthelmearc, at Their Queen’s Rapier Championship in the Shire of Misty Highlands, 5 March AS 56, jorundr hinn rotinn, Silver Buccle Herald, reporting, with the assistance of Arias Beltran del Valle, Sigil Herald, and Alianora Bronhulle, Garnet Herald.
In the morning.
Their Majesties summoned THLady Adeliz Argenti to present herself before Them. They granted Master Sogtungui Bataar time in Their court to release Adeliz as his Protege. Their Majesties then summoned the Order of the Pelican to take Adeliz to Vigil so that she might contemplate her entry to that order.
In the afternoon.
Their Majesties called the youth of the Kingdom before Them, and bade them follow Baroness McKenna Henderson with the toy box that they might be entertained during court.
Their Majesties invited the newcomers to attend Them. They gifted the newcomers mugs made by the artisans of the Kingdom and welcomed them to the society.
Their Majesties summoned before Them the kingdom Mistress of the ListsBaroness Amelia Soteria, and Meestress Odriana vander Brugghe. They confirmed that it was still Baroness Soteria’s intention to step down after 5 years of service, and Meestress Odriana’s intent to take on that role. Their Majesties released Baroness Soteria and after hearing Meestress Odriana’s Oath of Service named her Æthelmearc’s Mistress of the Lists.
Baron Arias Beltran del Valle, the autocrat was allowed a moment in Their Majesties Court to thank his staff and the Shire of Misty Highlands for their assistance in making the event happen and being flexible through several changes of plan and dates. He wanted to especially thank Lady Birna the tollner for her help. He also wanted to make a special thank you to the site liaison, the high school custodian who was on site since 11 PM the night previous getting the site ready.
Their Majesties called before Them Her Majesty’s Queen’s Rapier Champion Master Lodovick of Grays Inn. They thanked him for his service, and presented him with a token to commemorate his time as Queen’s Rapier Champion. Her Majesty next called Don Markus Skalpr Grimsson to present himself. Don Markus had won the tournament this day, and his chivalry and courtesy greatly impressed Her Majesty, thus She named him Her Queen’s Rapier Champion. Scroll by Master Kieran MacRae. Her Majesty next called for Lord Matthais al-Thabbai, she presented Lord Matthais with a token as the runner up in Her tournament and for displaying great honor and grace on the field.
Their Majesties summoned Ian of Sharrow to present himself before Them. Ian has been improving his skills on both the fencing field and the heavy combat field, which impressed Their Majesties greatly, thus They Awarded him Arms. Scroll by Gesa von Wellenstein.
Their Majesties next inducted Lord Orn Thorinson into the Order of the Golden Alce in absentia for his skills in fencing and his work in spreading fencing in the Shire of Ballachlagan through Stab a Professor. Scroll by Gesa von Wellenstein.
Their Majesties next summoned the parents of Betty. Otherwise known as Baroness Adelyn Idesborn and Baron Christian Goldenlok. Baroness Adelyn is known for many things, among those are her service as event staff, feeding people, and creating largesse. For these and more they made her a Companion of the Keystone. scroll by Katherine Kiersey. Baron Christian is also known for doing service. He assists with set up and tear down of events, and he is consistently helping with retaining and guarding, including when he lived outside of Æthelmearc. For this he was also inducted into the Order of the Keystone. Owl scroll by Biarna of Blackstone Mountainm, words by Mistress Grainhe.
Their Majesties once again summoned Lord Matthais al-Thabbai. His skill with a rapier has grown much, and his service to the fencing community has made some large impacts. For this Their Majesties inducted him into the Order of the White Scarf. Scroll by Alianora Bronhulle with words by Cyrus Augur and Po Silvertop the Rogue.
Their Majesties called for Comtesse Elena d’Artois le Tailleur to present herself before Them. Her Majesty thanked Elena for volunteering to coordinate the marshals for the tournament, and named Comtesse Elena her inspiration for the day and awarded her a Golden Escarbuncle.
Their Majesties had further words for Comtesse Elena, and called before Them the Order of Defense to discuss Comtesse Elena’s skill in fencing and her service to the community. They presented Elena a writ of summons to contemplate entry into the Order of Defense to be answered at the Special Practice in the Debatable Lands on April 2. Scroll by Alianora Bronhulle with words by Po Silvertop the Rogue.
Their Majesties invited Baroness Aine and Baron Arias to air a grienvance that the two of them had. They had formerly served as the arms of Their Majesties when they last sat upon the Sylvan thrones, but it had been noted that Their Majesties had a new left arm. Their Majesties agreed that this situation had occurred and that all Their arms should be on equal footing. They thus demanded that Baroness Aine and Baron Arias bring before Them THLord Rhys of Miles End. Their Majesties noted how They were pleased by the work Rhys has done for Them, thus they named him a Baron of Their Court. Scroll by Nichola Beese.
THLady Adeliz Argenti was called into court that she might answer the question from her writ to the Order of the Pelican. Their Majesties confirmed that it was Adeliz’s intend to proceed, and heard words from Countess Alys Katharine, a Pelican from the Midrealm, Sir Arden Scott of Clan Scott, a member of the Order of the Chivalry, Viscountess Rosalinde Ashworth, a member of the Order of the Laurel, Duchess Dagmar Halvdan, a Royal Peer, Viscountess Judith of Kirtland, a Lady of the Garnet, and Viscount Bear the Wallsbane, a Jewel of Æthelmearc in support of Adeliz’s induction into the Order of the Pelican. Their Majesties heard these words and found it right to continue so They invested Adeliz with a hood, by the hand of Anastasie de Lamoure, the Ancestral Pelican Medallion of Æthelmearc, a personal medallion that she might keep, and Baroness Anna Eisenkopf presented a medallion that was passed through 3 other female Pelicans that lived and did service in the Midrealm. After hearing Adeliz’ oath of service they declared her a member of the Order of the Pelican and granted her the title Dame. Scroll by Nikolai Malkovitch.
Their Majesties invited all the scribes and wordsmiths who worked on the scrolls for this court to attend Them so that They could present tokens of appreciation in the form of Their Majesties’ reign coins.
Their Majesties thanked everyone for attending and thanked the staff for hosting the event and invited all to attend the events coming up leading to the Coronation of Their Heirs, as we all continue looking forward to a more normal summer.
Her Majesty Juliana calls those fencers in the kingdom to her home Shire of Misty Highlands to compete for the honor of standing as her champion.
All are invited to come join the galleries as our Kingdom’s fencers display their prowess and skill as the vie to stand with that honor!
The next Queen’s Rapier Championship will be hosted by the Shire of Misty Highlands on March 5, 2022 at Robert C. Byrd High School, 1 Eagle Way, Clarksburg, WV, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
This is a royal progress event
Entrants in a past Queen’s Rapier Tournament process before the Queen. Photo by Baroness Aine ny Allane.
. Site is dry, no flames are allowed. The site also is not wheelchair accessible and only service animals are allowed (no pets).
The autocrat for the day is Baron Arias Beltran del Valle. Contact him for any questions.
The site fee for the day is $10 for each gentle, and those 17 and under are welcome as guests of the Shire. Checks can be made payable at the door to SCA WV, Inc. – Shire of Misty Highlands.
QRC and the Shire of Misty Highlands will follow all SCA COVID guidelines in effect on the day of the event.
We look forward to welcoming all to our Shire once again!
See the event page on Facebook here and the official announcement here.
Being the Chronicle of the Courts of Timothy and Gabrielle, King and Queen of Sylvan Æthelmearc, held on the nineteenth day of October, AS 54 (2019), at Agincourt, in Their Barony-Marche of the Debatable Lands. Submitted by Lord Snorri skyti Bjarnarson, Jewel of Æthelmearc Herald.
The morning came bright and glorious, and so it was Their Majesties’ pleasure to have their court called into session on the fencing lysts. The day’s combatants were introduced to Them, and Queen Gabrielle did give to each combatant kind words, and a red rose, symbolizing Her love for them as Her subjects and the honor they did Her by fighting to be Her champion. Once all combatants had been introduced, Her Majesty spoke, and wished them all well, and to fight with honor. The tournament did then begin, and there being no further business, court was suspended until such time as Their Majesties desired.
Entrants in the Queen’s Rapier Tournament process before the Queen. Photo by Baroness Aine ny Allane.
Some time later, Their Majesties, desiring words with Lady Katheryn Täntzel, traveled to the archery lysts, and bade their court be called into session. They spoke of her long service to barony and kingdom as a member of the archery community, and said that there was an order that had consented to her inclusion. Their Order of the Scarlet Guard was called forward, and Lady Katheryn was made The Honorable Lady Katheryn, Scarlet Guard, and she was bade join her new order for congratulations. Later that day she was presented with a lovely scroll from Their Majesties, crafted by THL Gesa Wellenstein. There being no further business at that time, court was again suspended.
Lady Katheryn is inducted into the Scarlet Guard. Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.
Accordingly, later that day Their Majesties again wished words with a gentle upon the fields of combat, and returned to the fencing lysts to reopen their court. Li Chang was called before them, and Their Majesties spoke warmly of his dedication to fencing and contributions to the Society as an artisan, and so Awarded him Arms with a scroll by Lady Murdia Drusilla Vettia Portia.
Li Chang receives an AoA. Photo by Mistress Arianna.
That evening, the day’s fine fellowship, valiant martial pursuits, and excellent weather, Their Majesties did again call all gentles there present to attend Their court with trumpet blast and loud oyez.
Their Majesties first summoned forward all children there present. When they had assembled, His Majesty spotted a young man who was an erstwhile courter of his eldest daughter. This young man, called Ben, was summoned before the court, and given the kingdom toy chest. With scant instruction, His Majesty gleefully bade young Ben to run, and sent the kingdom’s children in fast pursuit.
Ben makes ready to flee with the toy chest. Photo by Baroness Aine.
Their Majesties then gave leave to His Excellency of the Debatable Lands to hold his court.
Baron Brandubh holds Baronial Court. Photo by Baroness Aine.
Upon completion of the Baronial court, Their Majesties called for all newcomers to approach the throne. These good gentles were welcomed, and given cups made by the kingdom’s artisans, and bade return often to fill them with the Society.
It was then Her Majesty’s pleasure to remind all assembled about Mistress Jenna’s tokens, to be given by anyone for acts of kindness and service they witnessed.
Her Majesty’s words on that subject being finished, the summons went forth for all redheads there present to come forward. Baroness Mistress Anna Eisenkopf spoke of the Taker of Souls Tournaments held that day, and gave accolades to The Honorable Lord Boden as the day’s heavy combat victor, and Lord Mathias al Tabai as the day’s victor of fence.
A missive from Master Antonio de Luna, Kingdom Thrown Weapons Marshal, was read. In it, he commended the following subjects for their skill at knife and axe:
Lord Duncan MacCoulagh, with an average of 84 of 120, has earned the rank of Huntsman.
Lord Duncan is recognized as a Huntsman. Photo by Baroness Aine.
Lord Meinulfr Grimsson, with an average of 89.7 of 120, has earned the rank of Huntsman.
Lord Meinulfr is recognized as a Huntsman. Photo by Baroness Aine.
Lord Arvik Hyttoinen, with an average of 91.3 of 120, has earned the rank of Huntsman.
Lord Maddoc MacRoyri with an average of 102 of 120, has earned the rank of Marksman.
Lord Vilhjalmr Jorgennson with an average of 103 of 120, has earned the rank of Marksman.
The Honorable Lord Kumagaya Kentarou Masamoto with an average of 110 of 120, has earned the rank of Marksman. This being the highest average ever recorded in Æthelmearc, it is especially worthy of note.
All these skilled lords were bidden seek out Master Antonio for a token from him to commemorate their achievement.
There being no further informal business to address, Her Majesty Queen Gabrielle stood and addressed Her court, concerning the day’s tournament held for Her to choose Her champion. She spoke glowingly of all the fencers who had competed to gain her favor, but said that one rose above all others in her esteem that day, and so Master Po Silvertop was called forward. He was invested as Queen’s Rapier Champion with a scroll by Lady Vedis Aradottir of Coppertree, and accoutered with the cape and sword of that honor, and so took his place behind Their Majesties as a Kingdom Champion.
Master Po is named Queen’s Rapier Champion. Photo by Baroness Aine.
Next, Ingvar Sviaroslavich was called before the throne. Their Majesties spoke glowingly of his fighting efforts and happy demeanor, and so Awarded him Arms, to be determined at a later date in consultation with the College of Heralds, with words for a forthcoming scroll by Master Kieran.
Ingvar receives an AoA. Photo by Baroness Aine.
That being completed, Their Majesties called for Their subject Gardner of Elygh. They spoke of his musical and comedic gifts, and were so pleased that he shares them with all that he was Awarded Arms, with a scroll by Sister Mary Catastrophe.
Gardner receives an AoA. Photo by Baroness Aine.
At that time, Their Majesties demanded the presence of Lord Halfdan Rauþkinn. They spoke to all present of this lord’s skill at the making of banners, and at brewing, and that he gave freely of his time as a teacher, and so added his name to the rolls of the Order of the Sycamore, with a scroll by Lady Alysoun of the Debatable Lands.
Lord Halfdan receives a Sycamore. Photo by Baroness Aine.
Their Majesties did then call for Mistress Irene von Schmetterling. She was escorted forward by her lord, and knelt before the Sylvan Throne. Their Majesties spoke of her prowess and steady improvements in the fencing lysts, and so called for Their Order of the White Scarf, as well as any Ladies of the Rose, Garnet, or any other Royal Consorts there present. Mistress Irene was then inducted into that order, and a suitable scarf tied about her arm.
Mistress Irene’s White Scarf is tied on her arm by her husband, Master William de Montegilt. Photo by Baroness Aine.
Queen Gabrielle then rose, and spoke with great admiration of a young Baron of the Court who had stepped in to run Her tournament that day, and did so with good cheer and great competence. She names Baron Robert Hawksworth as Her Inspiration that day, and awarded unto him a Golden Escarbuncle, tinted red for service.
Baron Robert receives a Golden Escarbuncle. Photo by Baroness Aine.
Finally, Their Majesties called up all scribes there present who had contributed a scroll to the day’s courts, and each was given a token of appreciation from Their hands.
There being no further business, court was closed.
Submitted by Lord Snorri skyti Bjarnarson, Jewel of Æthelmearc Herald
From Comtesse Elena d’Artois, current Queen’s Rapier Champion,
regarding QRC on May 4th:
Good day to all of the fencers of Æthelmearc,
The day approaches when Her Majesty Juliana will choose a champion to serve. To that end, St Swithin’s Bog has graciously agreed to host the tournament. Huge thanks to them for stepping up and arranging the location and event logistics for this occasion!
The tournament format will be similar to the Rose Tourney at Pennsic.
The first portion will be run as one large pool of combatants. Pairings will be assigned. Each pairing will fight to 3 deaths. Bring whatever weapons form you choose. Any combatant may call their shot back at any time and opt to re-fight a pass rather than have something be questionable. Clean and pretty is better than any doubt. Marshals can be asked what they saw in case of any questions.
This is important: Double kills will not be re-fought. No points will be awarded for a double kill. Dead is dead.
Pairs do not need to match weapons form.
Points will be assigned based on the outcome of each set of passes as follows:
Possibility 1 – in any combination:
Combatant A – wins 1 – 3 pts
Combatant B – wins 2 – 7 pts
Possibility 2 –
Combatant A wins 3 passes in a row – 10 pts
Combatant B does not win any passes – 0 pts
Possibility 3 –
First pass Combatant A – wins 1 – 3 pts
Second pass Double Kill – no points awarded.
Third pass will not be fought.
Possibility 4 –
2 double kills – 0 points assigned.
Third pass will not be fought
Possibility 5 –
First pass Combatant A – wins 1 pass – 3pts
2nd pass Combatant B – wins 1 pass – 3 pts
3rd pass is a double kill – no points awarded for this pass.
We are looking at fighting up to 7 rounds of passes. Help from extra marshals may be requested depending upon attendance. We may run fewer. This will be fluid and will be decided as the tournament progresses.
From this score a top pool of combatants will be drawn, and a single elimination branch will be run. This will be single pass. Bring your best weapons form.
Finals will be best of 5, rotating weapons form. Combatants must match form.
As always Her Majesty reserves the right to choose any champion, not necessarily the victor of the tournament.
Please join me in celebrating Her Majesty with this fabulous display of prowess, chivalry, and joy in the list. Have fun. Be kind to each other. Honor before victory.
And remember Commandment number 1 – Thou Shalt Parry first.
Documented from the Scrolls of the Reign of Anna Leigh, Queen of Æthelmearc: The Business of Rhydderich Hael 40th Anniversary and Baronial Investiture, December 1, Anno Societatis LIII, in the Barony of the Rhydderich Hael, accompanied this day by Her Heirs, Gareth and Juliana. As recorded by Maestro Orlando di Bene del Vinta, Jewel of Æthelmearc Herald, with assistance from Lord Salvadore de la Torres.
Baron Magnus. All photos by Michael Matlock except as otherwise noted.
In the morning, Her Majesty gave leave to Their Excellencies to conduct their last baronial court.
At the conclusion of their baronial court, Her Majesty then called Baron Magnus de Lyons and Baroness Miriel du Lac into Her court. She thanked them for their service and duty to their barony, and did divest them of their baronial coronets and release them from their duties as the 11th baron and baroness of the Rhydderich Hael.
Juliana and Padraig
Next, Her Majesty summoned Padraig O’Branduibh and Juliana Rosalia Dolce di Siena to hear their claim to the baronial thrones of the Rhydderich Hael. Her Majesty then heard words from the baronial officers confirming that an election was held in accordance with established laws and policies and that it was the will of the populace that Padraig and Juliana serve as the next baronage. Having heard testimony, Her Majesty did then invest Padraig and Juliana as the 12th Baron and Baroness of the Rhydderich Hael and did receive their oath of fealty.
Her Majesty then gave leave to Their Excellencies to hold their first baronial court.
Magnus and Miriel are made Court Baron and Baroness. Photo by Baron Steffan Wolfgang von Ravensburg.
Magnus de Lyons and Miriel du Lac were then summoned before the Sylvan Throne, where Her Majesty spoke of Her gratitude for their fine service as landed baron and baroness of the Rhydderich Hael and did create them a Baron and Baroness of the Court. Scroll for Baron Magnus by Sthurrim Caithnes. Scroll for Baroness Miriel by Rosemund von Glinde.
Reign Artisan Jasper Longshanks then approached Her Majesty and presented Her with scribal desks and 10th century pan pipes to be given as gifts as Her Majesty sees fit.
Lord Jasper. Photo by Baron Steffan.
The royal emissary, Countess Gwen A’Brooke from the Kingdom of Calontir, next presented Her Majesty with kind words and a basket of gifts from Their Majesties Calontir.
Her Majesty then heard words from Ambrosius MacDaibhidh, who spoke of how his attention to fun sometimes overshadows his attention to accuracy and did acknowledge an error in scoring at the Kingdom Archery Championship, in which THL Cynwulf Rendell was declared the winner when, in fact, Lord Ronan O’Conall had carried the day. Her Majesty then called for Her archery champion, Cynwulf Rendell, thanked him for the time he did serve as archery champion, and did divest him of his regalia and relieve him of his station. She next called for Lord Ronan O’Conall and did invest him as the Æthelmearc Archery Champion and bid him take his place in Her court. Scroll by THL Eleanore Godwin.
Lord Ronan is named archery champion. Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.
Her Majesty then had words for THL Cynwulf Rendell and thanked him for his service as Her champion and for his graciousness, and so did present him with a Cornelian. Scroll by THL Eleanore Godwin.
THL Rendell
THL Lodthinn Vikarsson and Lady Isabella were next presented each with a Golden Escarbuncle for their work as autocrats for Coronation.
Lord Lodthinn. Photo by Baron Steffan.
Duke Sigenoth the Blissful was next received by Her Majesty and acknowledged that it was his intention to answer Her writ of summons later this day as to whether or not he would join the Order of the Pelican.
Duke Sigenoth (Cygnus) is sent to vigil. Photo by Baron Steffan.
Court was then suspended.
Upon the rapier field in the afternoon Her Majesty called for Lord Cyrus Augur. Acknowledging his prowess, teaching, and service to the art of rapier, she did induct him into the Order of the White Scarf. Scroll by Ekaterina Volkova.
Don Cyrus. Photo by Baron Steffan.
Court was suspended.
Comtesse Elena. Photo by Arianna
At the conclusion of the Queen’s Rapier Tournament Her Majesty called for Her rapier champion, Master Illadore de Bedagrayne, and released her from her service. Her majesty called for Countess Elena d’Artois, the victor of the tournament, and named her as Her Majesty’s Rapier Champion.
Her Majesty then presented Master Donnan MacDubhsidhe with a pin recognizing his service as a former rapier champion to Queen Elena.
Court was suspended.
In the evening, Her Majesty called forward the children and allowed them to select a toy from the kingdom toy chest.
Next, Her Majesty gave leave to hold baronial court.
Lady Thalia. Photo by Baron Steffan.
Her Majesty then received Lady Thalia Papillon, who presented Her Majesty with toys to be included in the kingdom toy box for the children. The Queen then bid Lady Thalia to tarry a bit longer and spoke not only of this act of service, but of the many other acts of service she does for her barony, and so did induct her in the Order of the Keystone. Scroll by Mistress Gillian Llywelyn.
Annika Iosefova was then called to attend Her Majesty, who spoke of her contributions to her shire and so did Award Arms to Annika. Scroll by Alita of Hartstone.
Lady Annika. Photo by Baron Steffan.
Rashid
Lord Abdul Ishkhan Al-Rashid next appeared, and Her Majesty spoke highly of his skill in the martial arts as a fencer, fighter, and archer, and so did induct him into the Order of the Golden Alce. Illumination by Anlaith Ingen Trena, calligraphy by Graidhne ni Ruadh.
Her Majesty then sought the attendance of Lord Chebe of the Rhydderich Hael, where she recounted his service to the martial community in the Hael, particularly his contributions to siege weaponry, and so did create him a companion of the Order of the Keystone. Scroll by Lady Eilionora inghean an Bhaird.
Lord Chebe
Next, Syele Pfeifferin was addressed by Her Majesty, who spoke of the many deeds of service given to the Crown, particularly in her acts in creating garb; and for this service did Her Majesty create Syele a Baroness of the Court. Scroll forthcoming.
Baroness Syele. Photo by Baron Steffan.
Her Majesty sought audience with Her Order of the Millrind and, stating that she has heard their words, did call forward Duke Maynard von dem Steine and induct him into the Order for his years of service to the kingdom and the martial community. Scroll by Phelippe Pippi Ulfsdotter.
Duke Maynard
Duke Sigenoth the Blissful next appeared before Her Majesty, whereupon he stated he was willing to receive the accolade, and so Her Majesty called for the Order of the Pelican. In testimony, Duke Maynard von dem Steine rose for the Order of Chivalry and spoke of how Sigenoth is someone who is looked up to, who inspires others to grow, and is a standard of excellence. For the Order of the Laurel, Sir Ian Kennoven spoke of Sigenoth’s dedication to the arts. For the Order of Defense, Master Jacob of Dunmore spoke of the ways in which Sigenoth had a personal influence on his own growth in the Society. As a royal peer, Duchess Dorinda Courtenay told of how Sigenoth is an inspiration to all of us, noting that he is the voice that says, “it can be done.” And for the Order of the Pelican, Duke Matthew Blackleaf spoke of the decades of Sigenoth’s amazing breadth of service. Having been satisfied by these words of the peers of the realm, Her Majesty then called for Sigenoth to be arrayed in the regalia of the Order of the Pelican and did receive his oath, and did induct him into the Order of the Pelican. Scroll forthcoming.
As a reminder: This is a dry site and there will be some boy scouts on site, so violating that rule will get us in real trouble.
There are a few spaces left in one of the cabins. The cabin rate is $55 for up to eight people (in addition to the site fee for each individual). Right now, I have four people confirmed that are willing to share the cost. So there is room for four more and it will get cheaper with each person added.
Here continues the Record of the Reign of Gareth and Juliana, King and Queen of Sylvan Æthelmearc at Queen’s Rapier Championship, December 9, AS 52, in Their College of Silva Vulcani; as recorded by Lord Arias Beltran del Valle, Jewel of Æthelmearc Herald, with the assistance of Nichola Beese.
As has been Their tradition, Their Majesties first invited those attending their first event in the society to come forward and receive a drinking vessel to take with them as they continue their journey in the Society.
Their Majesties gift people at their first event with a drinking vessel.
The children of the kingdom were then sent in pursuit of the toy chest to provide them entertainment during Their Majesties’ Court.
Their Majesties then invited before them Countess Elena d’Artois, and introduced her as the Rapier Warlord for Their Army at Gulf Wars in the coming spring.
Doña Elena d’Artois is named Rapier Warlord for Gulf Wars.
Her Majesty then stood before the populace and thanked the competitors to be named Her rapier championship early in that day. During the preceding tournament, Don Jacob Martinson emerged victorious, and so did She name him to be Her Champion and invite him to take his place in Their retinue. Scroll marking his victory was by Thea de Nes.
Don Jacob Martinson is named Queen’s Rapier Champion.
Deianeira Aella was then summoned to Their Majesties’ presence. They spoke of her efforts to develop her skills in fighting, both in armored combat and with a rapier, and so did They Award her Arms and name her a Lady of Their Court. Scroll by Lady Shirin of Susa.
Deianeira receives her AoA.
Next Their Majesties requested the presence of Donnchadh Ruiadh mac Griogair. For his skill in fencing, They bestowed upon him an Award of Arms. Scroll illuminated by Marcia Melia of House Sable Maul, with calligraphy by Baroness Graidhne ni Ruaidh.
Donnchadh receives his AoA.
Their Majesties summoned Gregory the Bearded before them. Word had reached Their Majesties of his regular attendance at fighting and fencing practices, and his generosity in supporting other new fighters. Pleased at this work, they were moved to Award him Arms. Scroll by Lady Shirin of Susa.
Gregory receives his AoA.
Petronia Alexandra was next called before Their Majesties. As webminister, she has improved the College’s website and fixed many extant issues there. She also follows a passion for archery, and assists her local chatelaine. For this did Their Majesties name her a Lady of their Court and Award her Arms. Scroll by Lady Felice de Thornton.
Petronia receives her AoA
Before Their Majesties’ Court could continue, Master Kieran MacRae, seemingly seized by madness, ran into Court. Her Majesty demanded he share what spirit caused him to interrupt so blatantly. Master Kieran then declared it was a spirit of celebration that gripped him so, marking the day of birth of His Majesty Gareth, that so happened to be that very day. With Her Majesty’s blessing, he then led the populace in song wishing His Majesty well. His Majesty was then presented with a cake for the occasion, minus the slice His Majesty had earlier indulged in.
Master Kieran trumpets the news of the King’s birthday.
Lady Charlotte Stark’s presence was then demanded before Their Majesties. Word had reached Their ears of her skill in making garb for herself and for others, as well as contributing a beautiful buckler to be given as a prize in the Wold Hunt. For this was she named to Their Majesties’ Order of the Sycamore. Scroll by THL Julianna Stafford.
Lady Charlotte receives a Sycamore.
Their Majesties then called for Lord Mathias al Tabai, whose efforts on the fencing field and the archery range had been made known to Their Majesties with great praise. They thanked him for his tireless defense of Their Sylvan lands, and so made him a member of Their Order of the Golden Alce. Scroll by Baron Caleb Reynolds, with calligraphy and wording by Baroness Graidhne ni Ruaidh.
Lord Mathias receives a Golden Alce.
Their Majesties summon Sorcha McKenzie before them. They spoke well of her skills in presenting, cooking, and serving culinary art for many. Many of the populace had expressed similar admiration, and so were Their Majesties of a mind to name her to the Order of the Sycamore. Scroll by THL Vivienne of Yardley.
Lord Robert Hawksworth and Doña Gabrielle de Winter were then asked to present themselves before Their Majesties as stewards of the event that day. After speaking about the event, Lord Robert was bid to remain before Their Majesties. They had noticed his continued growth on the fencing fields, even once shouting out his presence from behind enemy lines. Despite protestations to contrary, Their Majesties determined it appropriate that he SHOULD indeed be there, and did name him to Their Order of the Golden Alce. Scroll by Baron Caleb Reynolds, with calligraphy and wording by Baroness Graidhne ni Ruaidh.
Lord Robert receives a Golden Alce.
Their Majesties, not having completed Their business with the stewards, then demanded Doña Gabrielle present herself before Them. Her skill on the fencing lists and her service to the Kingdom have long been recognized, but less acknowledged was her work in embroidery and the crafting of Tudor grab. Their Majesties no longer wished that to stand, and so named her to Their Order of the Sycamore. Scroll by Mistress Fredeburg von Katzenellenbogen.
Mistress Gabrielle receives a Sycamore.
Her Majesty then stood and spoke again of the honor and prowess displayed in the tournament that day. She noted one combatant who, though they did not win, comported himself well and honorably, and named Sanada Genjirou Masasaku Her inspiration for the day and awarded him a Golden Escarbuncle.
Lord Genjirou is named Queen’s Inspiration.
There being no further business before Them, the Court of Their Majesties was then concluded.
On October 29th, A. S. LI, the Barony-Marche of the Debatable Lands held its annual Agincourt event on a gloriously warm and sunny day. Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope reports on the activities held there.
Morning Court
The day began with a brief court. Queen Margerite called forth THLord Kieran MacRae, who received a Writ for the Laurel at Pennsic to present himself at Agincourt. Her Majesty asked if he was ready to sit vigil, to which he responded in the affirmative. However, Queen Margerite noted that Kieran was in fealty to another and must be free before contemplating elevation to the peerage. His Laurel, Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope, was called forward to receive back his green belt and release him from his fealty, after which the Order of the Laurel escorted THLord Kieran to his vigil.
THLord Kieran returns his apprentice belt to Mistress Arianna before going on vigil for the Laurel. Photo by Lady Àine ny Allane.
Heavy Weapons Combat
Agincourt has always featured heavy fighting, with combatants choosing to portray either the French or the English as they honor the famous battle of 1415 at which Henry V of England annihilated a much larger and better armed French force.
This year, 38 fighters took the field, including eight combat archers. The fighting began with a Warlord Tourney, from which THLord Tegrinus de Rhina and THLord Rouland of Willowbrooke emerged as the winners, becoming the captains of the French and English Sides, respectively. The French took all of the day’s victory points: Field Battle, Woods Battle, Combat Soccer, and Hold the Barricade, and as commander of the French side, THL Tegrinus was the overall Warlord Tourney Winner for the day.
The day ended with a series of intense Tavern Brawls, in which Lord Ulrich von Baden, who had previously distinguished himself with a dive-in-and-slide goal that scored the final point for his side in Combat Soccer, was named Last Man Standing.
A Tavern Brawl. Photo by Baron Torvald Torgarson.
Videos below are by Baroness Constance Glyn Dŵr.
Rapier
Don Po Silvertop receives a rose from the Queen during the QRC procession. The outgoing champion, Lord Jacob Martinson, looks on in the background. Photo by Lady Àine ny Allane.
This year Agincourt was honored to host the Queen’s Rapier ChampionTournament. It began with the traditional presentation of fencers to the Queen, each one receiving a rose from Her hand. A huge list of 53 fencers competed, with the tournament fought as round robins in four lists with the top two in each list advancing to the quarter-finals. A noble gesture was made by Lord Magnus bastiano di Vigo, who ceded his spot in the quarter-finals to Countess Ariella of Thornbury that she might have the opportunity to do more fencing and increase her enjoyment of the day. In recognition of this act of kindness, Her Majesty, Queen Margerite, named Lord Magnus her inspiration of the day and bestowed upon him a Golden Escarbuncle at the evening’s court.
The final four fencers were Lord Durante de Caravaggio, Master Clewin Kupferheleblinc, Baron Eric Grenier de Labarre, and Don Po Silvertop. The finals came down to Master Clewin vs. Lord Durante, with Lord Durante winning the coveted title of Queen’s Champion, succeeding the outgoing Champion, Lord Jacob Martinson.
There was also a Free Scholars of the AEthelmearc Rapier Academy tourney run by THLord Jorundr hinn Rotinn, and an “Out of the Box” tourney run by Lord Markus Skalpr Grimsson, in which kills could only be made by shots to the head, arms, hands, legs, and feet. Both tourneys were won by Lord Ru Cavorst.
Video below of the quarter-finals through the finals of the QRC is by Brehan Lapidario.
Youth Combat
Agincourt likewise saw the Kingdom Youth Combat Champions’ tournament. Two enthusiastic young gentles fought three rounds with each of three weapons forms. In the end, Queen Margerite could not choose between them, and so she named Timothy of Arindale the Younger her Division 2 Champion, and Karl her Division 1 Champion. After the youth tourney, several adult sparring partners came forward to cross swords with the new champions, including THLord Rouland of Willowbrooke, Master Jussie Laplein, Prince Timothy of Arindale, and Lord Robert Pour Maintenant.
Karl and Timothy in the Youth Combat Champion’s Tourney. Photo by Mistress Arianna of Wynthrope.
Archery
Archery was, of course, at the heart of the original battle of Agincourt, and it was only right that the English did prevail in the shoot run by Master Alaric MacConall, though by a margin of only 2 points. Ronan O’Conall and Duncan MacCoulagh each made 10 point shots that gave the day to the English. Lord Takamatsu Gentarou Yoshitaka also ran a shoot by the victorious English to loot French cheeses, which was won by THLord Alrekr Bergsson with Baron Tofi Kerthjalfadsson coming in second.
Thrown Weapons
The Debatable Lands Baronial Champion tournament was the highlight of thrown weapons at Agincourt. The outgoing Baronial Champion, Master Clewin Kupferhelbelinc, ran the competition, which was hard contested. In the end, Lord Sanada Masamoto Kenshin O’no Kuma proved victorious and was named Champion, with Earl Thomas Byron of Haverford as his second.
Lord Kuma is recognized as Baronial Thrown Weapons Champion with Earl Byron as his second. Photo by Lady Àine ny Allane.
Arts and Sciences
For a second year, the event included an A&S competition run by THLady Sumayya al Ghaziya. Entries ranged from scrolls and cooking to research and ceramics. The winner of the single category entry was Lord Ian Campbell of Glen Mor for his ceramic tiles, while Lady Luceta di Cosimo won the multiple entry category for items including cookies and research into medieval burial practices. Lord Ian was inducted into the Fleur d’Æthelmearc at court later that evening. A slideshow of some of the entries is shown below
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Evening Court
After a Baronial Court where the winners of each competition were announced and rewarded, and various baronial awards were bestowed, Queen Margerite held court attended by Prince Timothy and Princess Gabrielle, as well as the Crown Prince and Princess of the Middle, William and Isolde. In addition to the accolades noted above, highlights from the evening court included the induction of Lady Cionaodh Gunn into the Order of the Millrind; the elevation of THLord Kieran MacRae to the Order of the Laurel, and Writs of Summons for the Pelican to Doña Gabrielle de Winter and Baron Robert O’Connor.
Master Kieran MacRae swearing fealty as a Laurel. Photo by Lady Àine ny Allane.
Doña Gabrielle de Winter and Baron Robert O’Connor receive Writs for the Pelican. Photo by Mistress Arianna.
Food and Entertainment
The soteltie made by Lady Zianna. Photo by Mistress Arianna.
Of course Agincourt would not be complete without food. THLady Ottilige Rappoltsweiler and Edelvrowe Lijsbet du Keukere organized a lunch buffet of chicken, blancmanger, vegetables and fruit, while Meesteress Odriana vander Brugghe and her crew provided the evening feast. Supper began with a toast to the late Lady Adriana Ramstar, after which there were readings from the Canterbury Tales. Then dish after dish arrived including various meats, pies, rice, Brussels sprouts, and a large marzipan and cake soteltie of the Shield of Chivalry made by Lady Zianna beguy urdina de Zabaleta.
The evening was capped off with a performance by the ever-bawdy commedia troupe, i Genisii, whose show included a seasonally appropriate undead Pantalone attempting to control his daughter Octavia by means both foul and humorous.
Thanks to all of the photographers listed above, as well as Lord Markus Skalpr Grimsson, Lord Takamatsu Gentarou Yoshitaka, Master Morien MacBain, Lord Sanada Masamoto Kenshin O’no Kuma and Baroness Aemilia Soteria for providing information about various activities for this event report.
Baroness Katja Davidova Orlova Khazarina (Chris Adler-France) reports on spring Queen’s Rapier Championship:
On a boiling-hot early summer day, Æthelmearc’s fencers arrived at the event site in Abhainn Ciach Ghlais to find… the wonderful surprise of an indoor, air-conditioned list!
While His Majesty was on the northwestern side of the kingdom at the equestrian championship, Palfreys and Polearms, on May 28th, Her Majesty observed her rapier championship in comparative coolness and shade.
Everyone needs to watch out for these two. Neither are White Scarves but they’re definitely both fencing badasses! I’m really glad they got to shine and showcase themselves today.
After receiving encouragement and roses from Queen Ariella, 21 fencers of all skill levels entered the tournament, which began with three pools of round robins. Double kills were counted as a loss for both combatants. The top two combatants from each pool were promoted to a double elimination round, along with two fencers selected by Her Majesty.
The brackets progressed swiftly to the top eight total from the three pools, who were culled by double-elimination rounds to the semi-finals of best two-out-of-three rounds: Don Po Silvertop, Lord Jacob Martinson, Master William Parris, and Lord Durante de Caravaggio de Florenza.
In a rather rare occurrence in this kingdom’s history, neither of the two finalists were members of the Order of the White Scarf (or equivalent or higher rank): Lords Jacob and Durante.
Lord Jacob steps up as Kingdom Rapier Champion. Photo by Lady Wilhelmina Marion Bodnar.
In a final best three-out-of-five rounds, Lord Jacob Martinson won case, single, and rigid parry rounds, while Lord Durante won a case round.
Outgoing kingdom champion Doña Fiora d’Artusio applauded the tournament for being “ridiculously smooth” and all the combatants for being “particularly courteous.” She was happy that the tournament format gave each entrant as many fights as possible before elimination.
“Everyone needs to watch out for these two,” she remarked of Lords Jacob and Durante. “Neither are White Scarves but they’re definitely both fencing badasses! I’m really glad they got to shine and showcase themselves today.”
“It’s great we had two finalists who weren’t White Scarves. This keeps the Scarves and MoDs accountable,” agreed Master Will, head of the Academy of Defense. He noted that the tournament had a wide variety of entrants from Award of Arms-level of recognition to Masters of Defense. He was especially happy to see “people adapting, learning, changing their game when they lost a bout, which meant that some of the finalists came out of the losers list.”
“Whoa, what a day!” Lord Jacob enthused after the tourney. “First and foremost, thank you to the Queen of Æthelmearc, Ariella of Thornbury, for granting me the opportunity to be her fencing champion. I will do my best to represent our kingdom to the best of my abilities, and will protect her at all costs with my steel.”
In addition to thanking the shire for hosting a great event, and Countess Elena d’Artois le Tailleur and Duke Titus Scipio Germanicus for training him, Jacob expressed deep gratitude to his inspirations: “My wonderful wife, and our children, who put up with me stabbing all the things and constantly running off to practices or events.”
Bearpit and Food
Her Majesty Ariella faces Lord Jacob in the list. Photo by Lady Wilhelmina Maron Bodnar
A relaxed bearpit tournament followed the championship, with marshals continuously crying “Table for one!” when a combatant needed a new “dancing partner” and “Table for two!” when both combatants died or a combatant successfully held the list five times in a row. Queen Ariella good-naturedly accepted challenges in a separate list, offering fencers who are participating in the Wild Hunt the opportunity to nab the highest score, a five-point kill (since royalty are worth even more than Masters of Defense).
“My Rapier Championship had many highly skilled and chivalrous fencers compete,” Her Majesty commented after the event. “They honored Æthelmearc and Me in entering the tournament and it was a pleasure to watch. As My outgoing Champion, Doña Fiora, said, it was a very courteous tournament but with intensity as well. Congratulations to My new Champion, Lord Jacob Martinson, and to the other finalist, Lord Durante! Thank you to the Shire of Abhainn Ciach Ghlais for hosting such a well-run, enjoyable event! It will be a meaningful, good Royal memory for Me. As a bonus, I had the opportunity to fence almost everyone in the tournament and some who marshaled, which gave Me joy.”
Throughout most of the day, the St. Lawrence Guild of Cooks offered a copious repast of tasty finger foods, including sliced Pyes of Paris and spinach pies, several different kinds of marinated hard-cooked eggs, sliced cold cuts and cheeses, bread, dried fruit, fresh fruit, raw vegetables, and a variety of pickled vegetables. (The delicious pickled onions and carrots were lacto-fermented in whey.)
Court and Wild Hunt
After opening Court with a moment in remembrance of Baron Malcolm Fitzwilliam, and allowing a brief Endless Hills baronial court, Her Majesty awarded a Silver Buccle, Golden Alce, and Keystone. (See Court Report.)
Countess Elena and Master William presented prizes (including a copy of Talhoffer’s Medieval Combat) to the three top three bearpit entrants: Lord Durante, Lord Andreas von Halstern, and Don Po. Master Diego Miguel Munoz de Castilla, one of the four coordinators of the Wild Hunt, reminded everyone that both the bearpit and championship that day counted toward the year-long competition.
“Don’t worry about the math about how much someone is worth, we’ll do that for you,” he said. “Just remember who you fought and email us that.”
