Blowing snow and the threat of a blizzard could not keep the ardorous inhabitants of the Barony of Endewearde from their annual winter gathering to celebrate love in all its many expressions.

The Tourney of Love was held this past Saturday February 16th in the Barony of Endewearde. It is a day filled with fighting, fencing, arts, music, food and fun.  At stake is the coveted pink baldric of the “Champeen o’ Love”.  Only the most ardent and versatile gentle earns the baldric since the right to wear the baldric comes from the entrant’s combined scores in all three of the day’s competitions: Fencing, Arts & Sciences, and Heavy List combat. Lord Ané du Vey has held the esteemed title of Champeen o’ Love for three years running and this year only one contender had the fortitude and versatility to enter all three categories and thus challenge him for the right to wear the pink and lace confection that signifies his status. Read on to find out if Lord Ané kept the coveted baldric or was forced (?) to surrender the magnificent regalia.

Lord Ané made a spectacular entrance to start the day off entering from the high dais of the tournament hall on a cloud and to the sound of trumpets and the gentle harp music of Baroness Aneleda Falconbridge, he welcomed all comers to this day in celebration of that noblest of emotions, and especially noted Master Julien de Lapointe who was the other intrepid combatant entered in all three contests of the day.

The first event of the day was the Fencing tournament in which 21 were entered.  When all the tallies had been tallied, there was a three-way tie for first place between Master Julien de LaPointe, Lord Radbod, and Don Jordan Harvey. The tie was resolved, at sword point of course, in favor of Don Jordan Harvey.

A short break in the martial activities gave those gentles offering performances as their entries in the Arts and Sciences competition to present their art. Then the populace was issued tokens with which recognize those artisans on display.  They did not have an easy time of it as there were 31 entries ranging across a broad spectrum of arts. The artisan with the most tokens at the end of the day would win the A&S portion of the day.

Then the Heavy List fighters took the field.  Eight entrants fought a round-robin and when the dust had settled, the undefeated champion of the heavy list tournament was Lord Ané du Vey.

Throughout the day a fabulous dayboard was presented by Lady Anya Krasnoperkin and her staff, keeping the gallery and the combatants well fortified for their exertions.

Once the last sword thrust had been delivered and the last A&S token tallied, it was time to announce the winners of the day. As has already been stated, Don Jordan Harvey won the fencing tournament and in recognition of this feat, he was presented with a handmade leather flask finely crafted and donated by Syr Cedric of Thanet. Lord Ané du Vey, winner the heavy list tournament was awarded a mighty drinking vessel “for water” which was made and donated by Anna Tarr.  The Arts & Sciences competition was won by Triggvy for his performance of the battle march of Tir Mara and he was presented with a beautiful stained glass fleur-de-lis donated by Lord Gwillim Kynith. Triggvy also won the Youth category of the Arts & Sciences competition with his performance.

Then it was time to announce the overall winner of the tournament.  The winner was presented not only with the traditional baldric, but also a hot pink great sword crafted by Lord Drottin Broddr Tryggrsson which is nearly as long as the event’s Autocrat Lady Agatha Wanderer is tall. Dubbed the “shaft of love” the prize was bestowed with much giggling and ceremony upon a new Champeen o’ Love: Master Julien de Lapointe.

Following the presentation of prizes the hall was reset for banqueting and an amazing feast was presented by Lady Leofwenn of Wytleseie and her staff. Throughout dinner there was dancing lead by Lord Gwillim Kynith as well as several musical performances. It was a perfect end to a love-filled day of friendly competition in celebration of that most sublime emotion.

Vivat to the beautiful Barony of Endewearde on hosting such a warm and welcoming event to brighten these cold winter days.

Filed under: Events Tagged: a&s, Endewearde, events, fencing, heavy list

 

This Saturday the Barony of Iron Bog is proud to host the second Modern World Collides with the SCA. Would you like to learn about how the modern world impacts the SCA from knowledgeable professionals?
There is something being offered for everybody. The following classes are being offered:

10 to 11
Chained Books & Jealous Monks: Copyright Law in a Nutshell (Lord Tristan le Chanticler de Champaigne)
Project Management for Autocrats (THL Owynn Greenwood)

11 to 12
Civil and Criminal liability for officers (Master Lawrence Thornguard)
My Persona’s Curriculum Vitae meets My Modern Resume (Sir Tanaka Raiko)

1 to 2
PATENTS. (Garrick Mapmaker, OGR)
Using the web pollings and recommendations page (Lady Raffaella Mascolo)

2 to 3
Modern Commercial Heraldry: Trademark Law in a Nutshell (Lord Tristan le Chanticler de Champaigne)
The SCA Meets the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) or Why do I have to Allow Dogs At My Event. Lady Caitriona inghean Sheamuis

3 to 4
Civil and Criminal liability for officers (Master Lawrence Thornguard)
My Persona’s Curriculum Vitae meets My Modern Resume (Sir Tanaka Raiko)

4 to 5
Deductible Expenses in the SCA (Molly inghean ui Raighallaigh)
Bringing Your Research from Re-enactment to Academia (Lady Jane Milford, OM)

Filed under: Uncategorized

Lady Sabina Luttrell, Deputy Minister of Lists, is looking for a qualified person to take over the maintenance of the MOL website. The website is in need of an upgrade and a warranted webminister.

If you or someone that you know would like to volunteer for this position, please contact Lady Sabina or the East Kingdom Webminister’s Office.  Interest and qualifications are the most important aspects at this point. Warranting will be worked on through the Kingdom Webminister’s office if needed.

Filed under: Official Notices

There will be a Q&A session for the web polling’s and recommendation’s page this weekend at The Modern Word Collides with the SCA! event.  For more information about the event, see this article about the classes or the event announcement.

Please come and ask Lady Raffaella Mascolo any questions that you have about the set up, process, security and such.

Filed under: Events

In the forty-seventh year of the Society, upon 9 February, in the Barony of l’Ile du Dragon Dormant, Edward the King and Thyra the Queen did enact and cause to be enacted the following:

Item. Their Majesties accepted the fealty of Angus and Tadea, Baron and Baroness of L’Ile du Dragon Dormant.

Item. Their Majesties caused those good gentles new to our Society to be brought before the Tyger Thrones, and did gift each with tokens of the day.

Item. Their Majesties summoned the children of the East Kingdom and shared with them toys donated by la Chambre des Dames d’Alisay.

Item. Their Majesties called before the Tyger Throne their fair subject Tadea Isabetta di Bruno, and, in acknowledgement of her many labors, including as Baroness of l’Isle du Dragon Dormant, summoned the Order of the Pelican and thereupon inducted the said Tadea in the Order aforenamed and conveyed upon her Arms by Letters Patent. This deed was memorialized in a document calligraphed by Alisay de Falaise and illuminated by Ursion de Gui.

Item. Their Majesties summoned the good lady Borujin Acilaldai before the Court and inducted her into the Order of the Silver Rapier, the which deed was memorialized in a document prepared by Lada Monguligin.

Item. The Order aforenamed being yet incomplete, Their Majesties called Mikulaj von Meissen before the Court and created him a member of the Order of the Silver Rapier, the which deed was memorialized in a document authored by Lorita de Siena and created by Isabel Chamberlaine.

Item. The Order of the Silver Rapier remaining incomplete, Their Majesties called upon Jonathan Rankin O’Rose and caused his name to be writ upon the lists thereof, the which deed was memorialized in a document calligraphed by Constance de St. Denis and illuminated by Sarra the Lymner.

Item. The subject of the art of the rapier being much on Their Majesties’ mind and the practice thereof being greatly to their pleasure, Their Majesties convened this day a great and mighty rapier tournament; the victor of the day was declared in open Court to be Nathaniel Wyatt, who was thereupon awarded the title of King’s Rapier Champion and gifted in memory thereof with a document created by Catarina Giaocchini.

Item. Her Majesty then summoned Davius Saint Jacques before the Tyger Thrones and declared him to be her chosen Queen’s Rapier Champion according to the most ancient traditions of the Realm, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Catarina Giaocchini.

Item. Their Majesties requested the presence of Samantha McShane before their Court, and the said lady appearing, did induct her into the Order of the Tyger’s Cub, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Borujin Acilaldai.

Item. Their Majesties requested the presence before the Court of Olan of l’Ile du Dragon Dormant and awarded him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Brangwyne of Wentworth.

Item. Their Majesties summoned before them Mireille of l’Ile du Dragon Dormant and awarded her Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document illuminated by Magdalena Lantfarerin and calligraphed by Elsa de Lyon.

Item. Their Majesties awarded Arms to Ildiko of l’Ile du Dragon Dormant, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Mayuki Yuri.

Item. Their Majesties awarded Arms to Abiageal Muirgen Mhic an Mhadaigh, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Aleksei Dmitriev.

Item. His Majesty gave tokens of the King’s Esteem of Merit to Shadiyah al-Zhara and Arthur de Beaumont.

Item. Their Majesties caused the name of Katherine Ashwode to be writ upon the list of the Order of the Manche, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Sunniva Ormstung.

Item. Their Majesties called Daffyd of l’Ile du Dragon Dormant into their presence and awarded him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Catarina Giaocchini.

Item. Their Majesties brought Bradwyn of l’Ile du Dragon Dormant before the Court and awarded him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document illuminated by Isa of Ruantallan and calligraphed by Eleana O’ Sirideain.

Item. Their Majesties summoned Erick the Ferocious into their presence and thereupon awarded him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Robin dit Dessant.

Item. Their Majesties summoned Frasier MacLeod before the Tyger Thrones and, acknowledging his long labors, created him a member of the Order of the Silver Crescent, the which deed was memorialized in a document written in his native tongue by Alys Mackyntoich and created by Roberta MacMorland.

Item. The Order of the Silver Crescent being not as yet complete, Their Majesties then summoned the good man Guthfrith Yrlingsson and created him likewise a member of the Order aforenamed, the which need was memorialized in a document authored by Díarmaid Ó Bríain and created by Sarra Graeham of Birnham.

Item. Their Majesties called before the Tyger Thrones Noa the Archer and awarded him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Danuta Czarowna.

Item. Their Majesties summoned Guyuk Sakighci into the Court and awarded him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Margaret Twygge.

Item. Their Majesties called before them, and awarded Arms to, Kirsa Ajinai, the which deed was memorialized in a document illuminated by Mayuki Yuri and calligraphed by Borujin Acilaldai.

Item. The Majesties called into the Court their subject Ursion de Gui and, in recognition of his deeds, created him a Baron of the Court and granted him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Alisay de Falaise and Kayleigh McWhyte.
Item. Their Majesties called Cosmano Piero Micheletto da Roma before the Tyger Thrones and thereupon created him a Baron of the Court and granted him Arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document authored by Borujin Acilaldai, calligraphed by Robin dit Dessant, illuminated by Melina al Andalusiyya.

All these things were enacted upon Saint Apollonia’s Day, in the presence of witnesses, including Conogan mab Rioc, John Radburne and Godfroy de Falaise. Mistress Alys Mackyntoich, Their Majesties’ Herald, wrote this, based upon information provided by Master Ryan McWhyte, Brigantia Herald.

Filed under: Court, Fencing Tagged: Kings and Queens Champions, rapier

Earlier today, the following post was shared on Facebook:

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Kingdom of Meridies,

As many of you know, about a year ago there was a lawsuit settlement against the SCA. In what can only be described a triumph of unity and solidarity, the populace of the Society came together as one and sacrificed for the betterment of us all. As one of the Society’s insurance carries had denied the liability claim, the Board of Directors had to make the hard choice to require money from every branch to meet the financial obligations put before us. Even the sub-corporations which were not required to do so chipped in as a show of support and unity. Our bank accounts may have been depleted, but we as a whole became a stronger, closer community.

Yesterday The Crowns, Heirs, Seneschals and Exchequers of the Kingdoms of the Known World met via conference call to hear the outcome of the complaint against the insurance carrier. The result of the settlement is such that each Kingdom will receive back approximately 2/3 of what we had to give to meet the financial burden of the original law suit. These checks will be dispersed to the Kingdoms Monday, February 11th. It will take a bit of time as Master Kevin and THLady Jutta plan, discuss, and implement the best way to filter the money down to the local groups who gave to the Kingdom to help meet the burden placed upon us. Your local group should expect a refund of approximately 2/3 of that which was given.
As is standard in such legal proceedings, the settlement included a non-disclosure agreement. The Board of Directors have shared what news they could but cannot discuss details of the settlement. They and the Society officers who have been instrumental in these tough times should be commended. This members are volunteers who so love our society they are willing to do the toughest jobs we have so we may enjoy our game. Please take the time to thank them for their efforts on our behalf.
Should you have any questions, please feel free to ask Master Kevin, THLady Jutta, Our Heirs or Ourselves and we will try to answer as best we can.

Thomas and Elisenda
Rex et Regina Meridies.

The Gazette contacted our own Royals to ask them about the announcement.

TRM Edward and Thyra confirmed the information provided by TRM Meridies and let us know that Master Michel Wolffauer, the East Kingdom Exchequer, is unavailable for the next week. He and their Majesties will address the disbursal of funds when he returns.

Their Majesties cautioned us that 2/3 was an approximate number, and the details must remain confidential. Their Majesties expect to communicate with Kingdom and local officers in the next couple of weeks to determine a plan for the funds.

“We’re glad that this is behind us, and that we have a favorable outcome,” His Majesty said by conference call. Their Majesties explained that while the BoD has signed a Non-Disclosure Agreement, they can say that this closes the countersuit brought by the SCA against its former insurance company.

The Gazette also spoke to Countess Margaret Ny Connor, BoD member and former Queen of the East. She let us know that the BoD will release an official announcement tomorrow via the Announcements list. “We are all very pleased and relieved that we can now move forward and work on the future health of our organization,” she said. “Seriously, we are so grateful to the membership for its support of the organization over the past few years. We really are looking forward to what we can now build to ensure the SCA’s future success.”

The EK Gazette thanks His Majesty Meridies for permission to post his message, and their Majesties East as well as Countess Margaret for taking time out of their evening to answer our questions.

Filed under: Corporate Tagged: BoD, corporate, Edward and Thyra, law suit

Countess Marguerite ingen Lachlainn has been kind enough to send us the following report from King’s and Queen’s Rapier Champions, currently being fought in snowy L’ile du Dragon Dormant.

Following the round robin pools, the final sixteen met as follows in a double elimination tournament:

Lord Guthfrith Yrlingsson vs. Baron Diego Miguel Munoz de Castilla
Don Quintin Brilliant vs. Don Ogedei Becinjab
Baron Ian Raven of Tadcaster vs. Don Griffith Davion
Don Alain Longship vs. THL Owyn Greenwood
Rowen of Dragon Dormant vs. Lord Davius St. Jacques
Don Fraser MacLeod vs. Lady Camille des Jardins
Don John Radburne vs. Don Nathaniel Wyatt
Sir Antonio Patrasso vs. Lady Anastasia da Monte

The following combatants were victorious and moved on to compete as follows in the “winners list”

Lord Guthfrith Yrlingsson vs. Don Ogedei Becinjab
Don Griffith Davion vs. THL Owyn Greenwood
Lord Davius St. Jacques vs. Don Fraser MacLeod
Sir Antonio Patrasso vs. Don Nathaniel Wyatt

The remaining combatants competed as follows:

Baron Diego Miguel Munoz de Castilla vs. Don Quintin Brilliant
Baron Ian Raven of Tadcaster vs. Don Alain Longship
Rowen of Dragon Dormant vs. Lady Camille des Jardins
Don John Radburne vs. Lady Anastasia da Monte

After those bouts were completed, the final four are:

Don Nathaniel Wyatt vs. Don Ogedei Becinjab
Don Quintin Brilliant vs. Don Griffith Davion

Don Nathaniel Wyatt bested Don Ogedei to advance.

Don Quintin entered his final four bout with one loss, and Don Griffith was unbeaten entering the final four.  Don Quintin won the first bout, giving them one loss each, and forcing another bout. Don Griffith won the second bout, giving Don Quintin two losses, which eliminates him from the tournament. Don Griffith moves on to face Don Nathaniel in the final.

The finals of the tournament was best three of five. Don Griffith Davion won the first bout, with Don Nathaniel Wyatt winning the second and third bouts. Then both combatants took a short break. Following the break, Don Nathaniel Wyatt won the fourth bout — his third win — and won the championship and the title of King’s Champion.

At court, Her Majesty announced that Lord Davius St. Jacques has been selected to serve as Queen’s Champion. Countess Marguerite reports that he was “overwhelmed” when he learned that he had been selected.

The Ladies of the Rose present also presented tokens to the following combatants to recognize their exemplary chivalrous conduct during the tournament: Lady Camille des Jardins, Baron Ian Raven of Tadcaster, Lord Guthfrith Yrlingsson, and Lord Robert Earlson.

Congratulations to Don Nathaniel Wyatt, Lord Davius St. Jacques, and to all who fought with skill and honor in today’s tournament.

Filed under: Events, Fencing Tagged: Dragon Dormant, fencing, Kings and Queens Champions, rapier champions, rapier combat

In the forty-seventh year of the Society, upon 2 February, in the Barony of Carolingia, Edward the King and Thyra the Queen did enact and cause to be enacted the following:

Item. Their Majesties accepted the fealty of Fergus and Imigla, Baron and Baroness of Carolingia.

Item. Their Majesties caused those good gentles new to our Society to be brought before the Tyger Thrones, and did gift each with tokens of the day.

Item. Their Majesties summoned the children of the East Kingdom and shared with them toys donated by la Chambre des Dames d’Alisay.

Item. Their Majesties called before the Tyger Throne the subject Metilda Grey of Lochleven and thereupon awarded her arms, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Martelle von Charlottenburg.

Item. Their Majesties gifted Everest of Lochleven, Alden of Lochleven, Ellery of Lochleven and Avery of Lochleven with the token of the Golden Kinder in recognition of their artwork.

Item. Having held upon this day a great convocation and assembly of bards, songsters, poets and performers, His Majesty selected from among their talented number Grim the Skald to be King’s Bardic Champion, the which appointment was memorialized in a document authored by Linette de Gallardonand calligraphed by Svea the Short-Sighted.

Item. Being no less equal in dignity, Her Majesty selected Lucien de Pontivy as Queen’s Bardic Champion, the which deed she memorialized through the gift of an engraved instrument created by Marion Quyn and Grim the Skald.

Item. Their Majesties called into the Court Shannon de Valois and thereupon inducted her into the Order of the Tyger’s Cub, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Jan Janowicz Bodanski.

Item. Their Majesties called into the Court Fiona de Valois and thereupon inducted her into the Order of the Tyger’s Cub, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Katherine Stanhope.

Item. Her Majesty summoned into her presence Toki Redbeard and gifted him with the Queen’s Honor of Distinction.

Item. Their Majesties bestowed the token of the Golden Lyre upon Toi Poisson de Mortagne.

Item. Their Majesties appointed Lianor de Matos, Simona bat Leon, Fortune SancteKeyne and Matilda of Carolingia as Seamstresses to the Court.

Item. In acknowledgement of his manifold skills with the bow, Their Majesties acknowledged Richard of Carolingia as a Master Bowman.

Item. Their Majesties called before the Tyger Throne their subject Colin Ursell and, in celebration of his long service, inducted him into the Order of the Silver Crescent, the which deed was memorialized with gifts of multiple medallions and a document authored by Alys Mackyntoich, calligraphed by Eva Woderose and illuminated by Khioniya Nikoleva Ryseva.

Item. The aforesaid Order being as of yet incomplete, Their Majesties summoned Hugh Tauerner and, in praise of his service, likewise inducted him into the Order of the Silver Crescent, the which deed was memorialized in a document authored by BoudiceaRavenhair and calligraphed by Ekaterina Volkova.

Item.  His Majesty brought before the Court Paskahalika Kananbala and thereupon presented the King’s Order of Excellence, the which deed was memorialized in a document created by Eleanor le Brun.

Item. Their Majesties summoned into the Court their subject Constance de Saint Denis to answer whether she would join the Order of the Pelican; and the said Constance answering in the affirmative, the aforenamed Order was summoned forth; and many Peers giving good testimony of the said Constance’s worth, Their Majesties did invest and endow the said Constance with the Order of the Pelican, the which deed was memorialized in a document authored by Catrin o’r Rhyd For and calligraphed by Eva Woderose.

All these things were enacted upon the Feast of Candlemas, in the presence of witnesses.  Mistress Alys Mackyntoich, Their Majesties’ Herald, wrote this, based upon the report of Master Ryan McWhyte, Brigantia Herald.

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien

Filed under: Court Tagged: Bardic, bardic champions, Carolingia, champions, court, court report, Edward and Thyra, events, King and Queen's Champions, Kings and Queens Champions

A mumming greeted King Edward and Queen Thyra at their recent visit to Carolingia.  “In honor of their visit, and in keeping with our duties has baron and baroness, we wanted to honor them with something both appropriately Carolingian,” said Baron Fergus MacRae. “ Leaning on the strong traditions of our fine barony, a Mumming was presented during feast.  In keeping with His Majesties fine Scottish roots, it was all about sheep.”

Baron Fergus and Mistress Catrin o’r Rhyd For commissioned Master Christian Lansinger von Jaueregk to create a poem for the performance.  “Mummings were used in period to entertain, deliver advice or present gift to notable people,” explained Mistress Catrin.  “We do them periodically in Carolingia, and they’re always popular.”

Mistress Gwendolyn of Middlemarch performed the poem, admonishing the local shepherds and shepherdesses for paying more attention to their sheep than each other.  Master Peregrine the Illuminator and Lady Clara Beaumont were the shepherd and shepherdess.  Additional shepherds and shepherdesses were Lord Ulrich Reinhart, Lady Sorcha Dhocair inghean Ui Ruairc, Lord Symon of Barnesdale and Lady Deirdre of Mitgaard.  Onlookers who were dragged up to dance by the shepherds and shepherdesses were Their Majesties, Master Justin du Couer, Lord Andreiko Eferiev, Lady Rosina von Schaffhausen, Countess Mara and Duke Vissevald.

The poem, photographs and a video follows. The video starts a few seconds into the mumming.

A Mumming for King Edward and Queen Thyra
by Christian Lansinger von Jaueregk (mka Michael McAfee)

Sad tidings, oh, sad tidings do I bring!
Good people, oh, good people, weep and wail!
And yet what good are tears ‘gainst serpent’s sting?
For now we strive ‘gainst grief to no avail!
‘Tis no hyperbole, no strain of truth
To state the gods themselves must be dismayed
For through the silly foolishness of youth
The dancing, my dear friends, has been delayed!
The frolicking and merriment tonight
Would have begun on time, and started well,
But, oh, we now must wait upon delight
And fires in our hearts we now must quell.
But whom, I hear you ask, are we to blame
For such a heinous fate now to befall?
I shall not single anyone by name
For truth to tell the blame is shared by all!
The fair young men and women of the field,
Those shepherds and the maids who roam the hills,
Unto their baser natures they did yield
And thus have proved the cause of all our ills!
And here is why our revels cannot start
And why our promises we cannot keep:
Each shepherdess and swain has lost his heart
Unto a fluffy, cute and cuddly sheep!
Instead of taking pleasure in good sport,
These commoners defy Terpsichore!
Well, I shall call them to a higher court
And absolution they must seek from me!
Distraction I can understand full well
And would forgive as natural and pure
But this abhorrent curse I must dispel.
Approach, you malefactors! Take your cure!
I will confront the source of all these harms
For I know where the origin must lay!
No matter how compelling are their charms
I tell you now to put the sheep away!
I see that some of you do not believe
That we lie under some unlucky star!
Well, sit you back, and I shall, by your leave,
Present how sorry these affairs now are!

I summon forth a young and lusty swain
Who, as a shepherd, would, in normal days
Come seek a dance as flowers seek the rain
And show such skill that would your eyes amaze.
Out on the floor, he would examine all
The eligible maidens that desired
To be called forth and asked to join the ball,
But he would hold out ‘til he was inspired
By one so fair of face and sleek of limb
That one would think a nymph had joined the fun,
And, with her loveliness entrancing him,
He would attempt to be her special one.
He’d wrap his arms around her slender waist
And with sweet words the shepherdess he’d woo,
And see if he her honey lips might taste,
And then repeat with maiden number two
And maybe more, for, ladies, after all,
There is enough of him to go around.
‘Twould be a shame if, somewhere in the hall,
There was a maid with heart left on the ground.
Then later, he would tell his every friend
Of all the triumphs he’d achieved that night,
Of every mean he used, of every end,
And say which wonton showed the most delight.
And then they would their muscles and physiques
Put side by side to see whose was the best,
For young men will, their skills and their techniques,
As is their nature, put them to the test.
As it should be! Instead, what do we find?
He pets a sheep instead of chasing maids,
Caressing wool that has not been refined
Instead of maiden’s skin and maiden’s braids!
No more, I say! Bad shepherd, I insist!
Put down the sheep! Make ready for the dances
Or I shall drub thee soundly on thy wrist
Until this beast no longer thee entrances!
Present the beast, with you’t shall not remain!
Strike up your courage, man, and do not blench!
You have done what is right, and for your pain,
Take this embrace. Now go and find a wench!

To speak of wenches: now, here comes a maid
Who normally in dances would be found.
From such amusements she would not have strayed
But rather to such circles she’d be bound
And possibly a handsome swain she’d meet
And then distract him with her female charms.
As he approached, she would take to her feet
Evading lithely his embracing arms.
Yes, she would lead him on a merry chase.
She would approach, perhaps sit on his knee,
But if he would lean close, away she’d race,
Like in those dances learned from Italy.
But soon he would completely be entranced,
And she might deign her graces to bestow
That lucky man, on treasure he has chanced
That onto him such fortunes she would show!
But maybe not! Perhaps she might again
Escape his clumsy, awkward, gauche advances,
And, laughing, mock the foolishness of men
To think she might be won with graceless dances.
And afterward, when all the shepherdesses
Retired to some grove, as maidens do,
To brush each others’ hair and comb their tresses
And help each others’ corsets to undo,
Her dealings with the lads she would relate
And everyone with laughter near would burst
The silliness of swains they would debate,
And then with wines and ales they’d quench their thirst.
But do we see such wholesome doings here!
Why, no! This shepherdess her sheep must nuzzle!
Although some men of quality stand near,
She feels the need to stroke and rub its muzzle,
And from these lads she will withhold affection!
Come forward, girl, pay heed to my complaint!
You are in need of serious correction!
From this affliction, you must show restraint!
Put down the sheep! Don’t make me say it twice!
If you do not, more strongly I’ll insist!
Ah, lovely girl! You see? Is that not nice?
Your soul’s no longer lost! You are dismissed.

Alas, such tales are easy to recount,
Such tales of woe, such tales of wretchedness.
But I dare not narrate the whole amount,
Nor shame all the benighted populace.
But not because I lack the will to try
Nor am I to discuss these things afraid
But doing so would make the time slip by
And dancing will be even more delayed,
Which I am guessing is the wicked plan
These ovine devils plotted all along
But we will edit out as best we can
So I will simply call out to the throng!
Oh, you who also carry on with sheep
I do command you, stop with this distraction
Now cast them forward, no more yours to keep
Or risk the wrath of my dissatisfaction.
And now, to face the leaders of this plot!
Conspirers all! So foul, so treacherous!
But thank the Muses nine they have been caught
For holding up our sport so lecherous!
I know these troublemakers! I have seen
Their workings, like a pox upon the land!
The day they first arrived, these sheep have been
A strain upon our barony so grand!
They have brought mayhem, bedlam and confusion
Upon the most innocuous proceedings.
Of headaches we now suffer a profusion.
Our doctors give us heated cups and bleedings.
A curse upon the road they followed here!
These fleecy, wretched beasts with soulful eyes,
And bleatings that can’t help but to endear!
And cuddlings that draw forth happy sighs!
Oh, they’re so pwecious! Who’s a widdle sheep?
Oh, who’s a widdle sheepie? Yes, it’s you!
I want to bring you home so I might keep
You to myself, to kiss a time or two!
Oh, no, no, no! I’m starting to succumb!
Their diabolic cuteness is too much!
Enough! I cast you back to where you’re from!
And do not further tempt me with your touch!
Aroint thee, sheep! I tell thee, get thee gone!
I’ll place you where you’ll do no further harms!
So ere you see another sinful dawn
I’ll place thee under guard of royal arms!
With that, these ill-timed incidents I’ll close
And what has been delayed I’ll now advance.
So, lads and lasses, lose your cares and woes!
With gladsome hearts, make ready for the dance!

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien
Video by Lady Arlyana van Wyck

Filed under: Arts and Sciences, Events Tagged: Bardic, Kings and Queens Champions

Who Will Speak for the Sheep?
by Myra Hope Eskridge
(performing as Lucien de Pontivy)

When dispute threatens the great Leven Loch
And good Saint Robert cries, “och, Meggie, och!”
Lords and Ladies, let noblesse oblige be your teacher
As you gaze on the weakest, the meekest, the sweetest of creatures…
Tell me…

Who will speak for the sheep?
When great houses battle, who speaks for the cattle?
Who will speak for the sheep?
Their little hearts break for the beating,
And their voices expire for the bleating,
Tell me, who will speak for the sheep?

Sheep don’t know the terrors of war
They don’t read history… (well, who does anymore?)
Wooly ears hanging low trotting in to their beds
Getting stuffed into cannons? No! Losing their heads!
Tell me, who will speak for the sheep?

Who will…?

Longing for the taste of tender green grasses
The cool breeze is the balm for the brands on their… delicate hindquarters
Who will speak for the sheep?

Who will…?

Words and music (c) 2013 Myra Hope Eskridge
Released under the Creative Commons
Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien
Video by Lady Arlyana van Wyck

Filed under: Arts and Sciences Tagged: Bardic, King and Queen's Champions

“Bold Lord Robert of Lochleven”
by Martyn de Halliwell to the tune of “Edi Beo”

Verse 1
Bold Lord Robert of Lochleven,
was riding along on his best riding sheep.
Through the woods he did travel,
carrying pigs for the smoker that night.

All the bacon he would provide,
All his pulled pork goes right to our thighs.

Then Lord Robert he did arrive,
at court without taxes to pay for his Styes

Verse 2
Then the mighty Baron roared
The headsman’s axe swung with a terrible fright.
Good Lord Robert’s head flew by
A look of shock as it took flight.
All the bacon he did provide,
All his pulled pork went right to our thighs.

Then Lord Robert he was no more
Though now a saint as declared by our King.

Verse 3
Saint Lord Robert came along
On Saint Robert’s Day he still traveled on
Upon a Herald he came by
And said, “hello I am Lord Saint Ro-“
STOP!

“What are you trying to do?”
“There’s no title stacking ever!”

So Saint Robert a Lord no more
He traveled along looking for boar.

Verse 4
Then Saint Robert he happened upon
A dastardly black knight with treacherous heart.
“Why the face and the heart so long?”
“I’ve not any clue I’m just really ticked off!”

“All the bacon can heal the soul”
“All the pulled pork goes right to your thighs.”

So go off and eat some now,
And know that the kings tax is due tomorrow.

Verse 5
So we’ve learned two important things,
To eat all the bacon and not title stack.
Thank you Saint Robert for not who without
We’d pray for bacon and pulled pork.

All the bacon your sainthood provides,
All the pulled pork goes right to our thighs.

So to him on his holy day,
We raise up a pork chop and shout “Amen.”

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien
Video by Lady Arlyana van Wyck

Filed under: Arts and Sciences Tagged: Bardic, Kings and Queens Champions

Time of taxes came to
trusty Carolingia –
brash Baron demanded
bah-bah calling livestock.
Righteously then Robert
roared against this sheep-toll;
painful price was made to
pay that day of horror.

Youthful hero had a
heady plan that day and
stealthy stole wool bearers
straight from tax-years prior.
Fast a brand was fashioned
fine sheep back were gifted –
Alas too late to save the
lord who spoke so bravely.

Remember good Robert!
Raise a glass to toast him –
Great his gift of courage,
gave his life for household.

-Grim the Skald
(also known as Matthew Grymm)

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien
Video by Lady Arlyana van Wyck

Filed under: Arts and Sciences Tagged: Bardic, Kings and Queens Champions

“This piece was adapted from a story in ”(Merry) Tales and Quick Answers”, (printed c. 1535) based on the notes I used in the competition,” reports Lady Judith. “The words may differ slightly from what I said in the video.”

The Resurrection of St. Robert

You have all heard of Saint Robert, how he defied his Baron…how he was martyred, how Lochleven mourned the loss of bacon–er, of HIM.

What you may not have heard was the tale of St. Robert’s resurrection. For, I tell you that he was Not dead as he did seem to be. When he was brought back home to lie in state, he remained lying down as if dead, to see what his wife would do (for she had not seen him die). When she entered the house, she had some bacon in hand, meaning to cook it over the fire. She saw her husband, lying as if dead, and stopped, unable to decide what to do, for she was very hungry. ”Call for help…cook the bacon….call for help…cook the bacon…” Finally she decided to cook the bacon and call for help after she had eaten. This she did, cooking the bbacon and eating her fill, until the saltiness of the bacon made her thirsty, then parched.

She began to cough, and choke, louder and louder. When other people from the household came to see what was happening, she quickly began instead to cry, and wail, and make great lamentation, crying, ”Oh, what shall I do?” Hearing this, her husband sat up, and said, ”Go quickly and drink, before your bacon chokes you!”

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien
Video by Lady Arlyana van Wyck

Filed under: Arts and Sciences Tagged: Bardic, Kings and Queens Champions

Crumbs
By Chatricam Meghanta
(also known as Marguerite ingen Lachlainn in the SCA)

Crumbs

Memories of my love
have lifted me up out of my body
and sat me next to him in a remembered
place of honor.

With his own hand he has fed me
the tenderest of morsels.
I taste wine from the cup
where his lips have rested.

All night the melodies the musicians
play for him goes into me,
leaving me wild with passion.
His scent is all around me,

the shuddery perfume of amber and musk.
His voice is in my ear, murmuring
the most erotic verses of those midnight songs
until I loose the last shreds of my restraint

and beg him to take me,
take me!

In the morning, when I awake alone
and thirsty for more wine,
I pluck these word crumbs
from the sheets where he no longer lays

and I write.

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien
Video by Lady Arlyana van Wyck

Filed under: Archery Tagged: Bardic, Kings and Queens Champions

After a full day of outstanding performances the field of contestants in the King’s and Queen’s Bardic Championship came down to five superlative performers.  Their Majesties then announced the theme of the last round of competition.  Each of the artists was charged to write a new composition in honor of Saint Robert’s Day, a festival of indeterminate period whose origins are shrouded in mirth, sheep and bacon.  (The text and video of each performance is available if you click on the individual’s name.)

The entrants were given some time to prepare and then their names were drawn in random order to perform.  First was Chatricam Meghanta (Countess Marguerite), who performed a stirring piece evoking the image of her lost husband.  A tribute so moving that many swore they saw the ghost of St. Robert inhabit that very room.

The next to perform was Lady Judith FitzHenry whose wry and witty story was about St Robert’s wife and how she dealt with his death… and resurrection.

Followed by Master Matthew Grymm whose stirring poem recounted the events that lead to the canonization of the dearly departed Saint.

The penultimate performer was Lord Martyn de Halliwell whose catchy words to a period tune about Bold Lord Robert had the crowd singing along with him between fits of giggles.

Last to take the stage was Lord Lucien de Pontivy who played the harp while singing a plaintive tune about the plight of the sheep.

Their Majesties and Her Highness adjourned with their advisory council to deliberate and determine the new champions and when all was said and done it was Master Grymm who was named new King’s Bardic Champion and Lord de Pontivy who will serve for the coming year as Queen’s champion.

Photo by Lady Katherine O’Brien

Filed under: Arts and Sciences, Events Tagged: Bardic, Kings and Queens Champions

Greetings unto all ye gentles of the knowne world. Please join the Barony of Carillion in a magnificent celebration in honor of the coronation of Gregor IV and Kiena II. Come and rejoice in the reign of Edward II and Thyra I as they pass on the crown to their heirs. The event will take place at the Horse park of New Jersey (Allentown, NJ) on April 6 where we will be celebrating with a Joust and a Sumptuous all day day board provided by Baroness Alesone Gray of Cranleigh.

There will be a Fighting, Fencing, and Archery tournament pitting the King’s and Queens champions with their respective teams In a duel at their Highnesses request in the main show ring for all to marvel at. More information to follow regarding martial activities.

And then, as if that wasn’t enough to whet your appetite to make your way to the fabled lands of Jersey. We will be having a Grand Joust !!

Much much more info to follow !!

If you wish to bring your horse or horses to this event, please contact the equestrian marshal-in-charge and the autocrat prior to the event.  All horses attending the event must have a current Coggins test, and horses traveling from outside New Jersey must have a current 30-day interstate health certificate, per SCA Equestrian regulations.  Equine health paperwork can be transmitted to the marshal-in-charge in advance via fax or email, or produced at the event prior to unloading the horse from the trailer.

Reservations: Site fees: 12.00 for SCA members adults and children
17.00 for non-members adults and children
Children under 5 are free
Family cap at $40.00 (5 or more gentles, Pre-reg only for discount)
Fees include Day board

Horse fee’s:
Unboarded horse 15.00 per day
Boarded horse   45.00 per weekend

Merchants are Welcome. Merchants must be Pre-registered no later than 2 weeks prior to the event. (March 23,2013)

For more information, see the event announcement on the East Kingdom website.

Filed under: Court, Events Tagged: coronation

Greetings unto the people of the East,

With many facing the beginning of Winter Storm Nemo, there has been some question about Kings and Queen’s Rapier this weekend in Montreal.  I can confirm that we will be holding the event as planned.  Please be safe in your travels and we look forward to seeing everyone on Saturday.

In Service,
Tadea Isabetta di Bruno
Baroness of L’Ile du Dragon Dormant
Autocrat of Kings and Queens Rapier

Filed under: Events, Fencing Tagged: King and Queen's Champions

Greetings unto the Fencers of the East.

As you are no doubt aware, Kings and Queens Champions of Fence is being held this weekend in Montreal, Canada. At the same time there is a Noreaster coming our way. In light of that we all have concerns over travel and safety. So the question that has been posed is whether we will be having the event. At this time, there is no plan to cancel the tourney.

I will remain in contact with the Autocrat, our Royalty and our Champions to remain abreast of any decisions. IF there is any decisions made the will alter the time, date or location of the event, I will get that to you as soon as I hear.

YIS,

Don Caine Ramsey
KMOF

Filed under: Events

 

The Board of Directors has granted a one-time variance to the following Society Financial Policy, Section XII, B to allow the Barony of Gyldenholt, Caid to test the PayPal system for accepting credit cards at the Gyldenhold – Calafia Friendship Tournament on

March 9, 2013. The Society Exchequer is currently evaluating the feasibility of PayPal for future SCA usage at events using this event as a test. Please direct any questions to the Society Exchequer at exchequer@sca.org.

Comments are strongly encouraged and can be sent to:
SCA Inc.
Box 360789
Milpitas, CA 95036

You may also email comments@lists.sca.org.

This announcement is an official informational release by the Society for Creative Anachronism , Inc. Permission is granted to reproduce this announcement in its entirety in newsletters, websites and electronic mailing lists.

Filed under: Official Notices

The Board of Directors of the SCA, Inc. would like to announce the launch of a new Office of SCA Staffing (OSS) as a Special Deputy under the President of the Society.

The purpose of this office is to address the growing need to improve the ability of the Society to fill Society Level Officer and Board positions of the SCA. The Office of SCA Staffing is intended to help the organization more effectively fill open positions, and eventually allow individuals to continuously submit themselves for potential openings and to improve their ability to access and apply for open positions. It is designed to better find and attract those members with strongly-related real world skills as well as needed SCA experience, so that they might best be able to put that experience and expertise to work making the Society a first class non-profit organization.

There are no immediate changes to the existing process for publication of open SCA positions or the need to submit applications to the Corporate office by the closing date for the position.

Hank Salvacion (Sir Tanaka Raiko, KSCA, OP) has been tasked with developing the Office and to serve as the lead to identify and recruit candidates for open key roles within the Society. Hank has over 25 years of experience as a professional recruiter and staffing agent, including recruitment of top executives and professionals across a wide range of industries including Engineering, Information Technology, Aerospace, Military, Telecom, Pharmaceuticals, Financial Services, and Wireless Technology.

Tanaka Raiko, is a 25 year veteran of the Society. He is a member of the Order of the Chivalry, and the Order of the Pelican, and has served as East Kingdom Earl Marshal, Pennsic War Marshal and has held several Regional and local posts within the SCA.

He can officially be reached at staffing@sca.org

Comments are strongly encouraged and can be sent to:
SCA Inc.
Box 360789
Milpitas, CA 95036

You may also email comments@lists.sca.org.

This announcement is an official informational release by the Society for Creative Anachronism , Inc. Permission is granted to reproduce this announcement in its entirety in newsletters, websites and electronic mailing lists.

Filed under: Official Notices