Kings Arrow Ranch Lumberton, MS
Kingdom of Gleann Abhann
8-17 March 2018
Some days before the war, I received a missive from His Excellency, Master Sir Valdrick Albrightsson. In the missive, was a request for my service to assist in the preparations of the war camp in Fox's Den far to the south. Additionally, my help was requested with the escort of our wagons to those far off lands of Gleann Abhann. Such a request from a respected knight of the realm was not to be ignored. Corona Vult!, after all, is more than just a battle cry. The king's, and by extension his duly appointed officers, 'will' be done.
To that end, I made my final preparations and in the early hours of the 8th of March, our caravan departed from the Baronial lands of Glaedenfeld for points south. On the journey, I accompanied Sir Valdrick's squire, John Mailor and his betrothed, Kehinde. John and I provided security for the trip while Kehinde acted as Quartermaster and camp leader for our enterprise. Additionally, we had a trail party in the form of that most infamous Roman, Legio.
We made good time through the pass near Vulpine's Reach into the flat expanses of An Dun Theine and Glynn Rhe. We took rest in the safety of the Iron Mountain before continuing our journey past the last Meridian protectoriate of Oakborne Keep and into the neighboring Kingdom of Gleann Abhann.
John and I remained alert as we travelled into the wilds of that Kingdom. Bandits had been known to prey on caravans in the border region that has found itself to be beyond the reach of both the Meridian and Gleann Abhann patrols, but we found ourselves safely to the wooden walls of the Shire of Dragouns Weal none-the-less and to the war camp just beyond.
The war camp of Fox's Den was found to be in excellent order as the woodsmen of that area had been conscripted to keep an eye on the grounds there. Our party made quick work of establishing camp. We were quite pleased with our efforts and soon had everything in good order and ready for the war to come.
Legio, a most enterprising Roman, had a very impressive kitchen of his own creation with pantry, basin and stove. So impressed were the camp followers, that many visitors came to our camp and spent time interrogating him on how this or that was created, setup or done.
On the 9th of March, those well-known peers, Corbin and Izzy arrived to camp and were quickly settled in as we made preparations for storms that scouts and other travelers arriving in camp told us would be coming. That evening we had our fire going bright and a closing day routine was established around our camp fire recounting of the day, sharing stories and the easy company of good camp mates.
While I can't remember all of the tales I was regaled with around the fire, I do recall an account that Legio shared about 'What it takes to make the grade' and the ramifications of failing in that course of action. You might even take him out for lunch some time to discuss. I'm sure he would enjoy that. Additionally, Corbin was kind enough to share his skill at toasting 'marsh mellows'. Many theories where shared on that subject during the war as well as how to maintain one's grooming in good condition during the act.
On the 10th, my most noble peers, Earl Benen and Countess Rosabelle, arrived at the war camp with their provisions for sale. I spent a good part of that day with them rendering what assistance I could as they prepared their stores for the throngs of men-at-arms, knights, masters, squires, proteges. apprentices and other camp followers that would beg for their worthy wares. Having them settled, I returned to Fox's Den.
In the early morning of the 11th, storm clouds rolled over Fox's Den like a dark, damp blanket of smoke and the rain came. We had the 'Den' well prepared for the storm and I spent a goodly part of that morning in the jovial comradery of the Den's residents in the camp kitchen: Grand Master's Izzy and Corbin, Legio, John and Kehinde as well as some newer arrivals the camp in the form of the Teutonic Tornado Siegfried with his lady Fidela (of Mongol origins) and Corbin's man Stefano with his family.
Sun's day dawned on a calm and tranquil camp. The final preparations for the upcoming conflict played out throughout the day and more baggage trains and soldiery arrived in support of the effort. Ben, from Crimson River arrived in the 'Den and was made welcome. Most of the day was spent in rest.
One important encounter of the day involved my first face to face meeting with Sir Severin Visconti di Milano. We had previously exchanged missives, but this was our first in person meeting. This is of import as Sir Severin is of Earl Sir Benen's lineage tree and a 'brother' to me being Benen's squire. Sir Severin is a most noble and knowledgeable peer. I am happy and proud to know him and hope to know him better as time moves on. I am definitely wealthier in the company of this man.
That evening, I was beckoned attend the King, Timothy, as a retainer for a Royal Cocktail party held in the Southern Consortium camp. This camp is most impressive. Of its denizens, the most noble house of Excelsior's flag is most prominent. That house, in support of their Majesties, had made preparations for a most impressive and lavish spectacle of the very best our Meridian kingdom can offer.
As royals of the other great kingdoms and principalities arrived, it was obvious (to mine eyes at least) that there was much avarice in their demeanor as they witness that which our royal house put before them. Those great visitors where welcomed into camp by both Their Royal Majesties, Timothy and Ysabel, and the Royal Heirs, Thorstenn and Dalla. After the greeting, they were enticed with delicacies of our kingdom ranging from Venison to aged liquors and meads. The kings chef for the evening, Bram Halfdannarson, spared no herb or spice in his preparations. I noted many in attendance all but drooling as the entrees were paraded through the populace. My tour of duty that evening was mostly of little note. As the royals when about their jovial royal business, I remained at my post throughout the evening, seen but unheard and observant to the needs of those I attended. I did have one brief encounter of note with Their Majesties Middle Kingdom, Cellach and Vukasin. We had a brief discussion of heraldic elements. As I was in my personal heraldic livery, Their Majesties noted the lozengy component that decorated my hem. My own personal heraldry shares some common elements with HRM Cellach. It's nice to know that the leader of the Dragon Army has good taste when it comes to heraldic application. TRMs Middle are very cordial and friendly peers, which I found very contradictory to the fierceness I have seen in HRM Cellach on the field. The rest of my evening was uneventful. As my duty came to a close, I made my way back to the 'Den and found my cot and rest.
Moon's Day, 13 Mar on the Gregorian calendar, found us with another slow day of war preparations. The prior evening was cold and we were instore of more cold evenings before the war ended. Fire wood was prepared and we managed to maintain a smoldering fire from the previous day for several days from this point on. My shire mates, Marek and Styrbjorn, arrived with the morning caravans. We helped them get quartered and did some exploring of the larger war camp during the mid-day.
It was during this time that I encountered Sir Marek of Aethelmarc and delivered a 2 sets of Demi-gauntlets for his use. Sir Marek is a fine example of chivalry and a respected friend who has offered me sound advice from time to time and continues to do so. One evening during the war, he offered some 'therapy' for an injury I had to my sword arm. The therapy was sound and judging by the amount of pain he induced upon me, I'm sure the evil spirits causing my problem will be going about their way soon. Earl Benen attempted to 'help' with the treatment, but I must confess that Sir Marek was more knowledgeable in the application.
On Tyr's day, opening ceremonies were held. My beloved kingdom of Meridies found itself aligned with Gleann Abhann and many of the smaller contingents against the kingdoms of Ansteorra, Trimaris, and Calontir as well as a few others. A most daunting challenge as these opposing kingdoms could form large units with stout shield walls in front of fierce spear, polearm and bow. The first major battle soon followed in for form of a Town battle with resurrection with both sides taking a turn in the attack and the defense.
Before the battle, I was attending Her Majesty Ysabel. During the service, I was able to witness a portion of the Diamond Tourney. Our Meridian Champions, Sir Locklinn and Lord Nikoslav, finished the tournament in 2nd place with grace and honor for the glory of the kingdom.
Her Majesty intended to join the ranks of Meridian Combat Archers during the upcoming town battle and I would carry a pavais and act as protector for HRM during the engagement. Unfortunately, a lowly page (which I believe was flogged thoroughly later that eve) failed to pack Her Majesties armor for the journey to Gulf Wars. So, her majesty, who was obviously distraught at not being able to participate, released me to join the fray of the town battle, which was already in progress.
With gratitude, I left Her Majesty and joined my comrades who were already engaged in the assault. The battle, like many I am involved in as a shield bearer, was enjoyable. Phases of no activity were spiked with periods of intense action throughout the engagement. Having been off the field for many months, I found myself pushed to my limits before the final blows were felt and had to retire from the field early. I was not happy in the leaving, but satisfied that I did help some with our army's objectives.
Later that evening, as we sat around the Fox's Den campfire recounting the day's action, strangers came into the light of our kindling with odd demands in a barely understood language. Through some discussion, we determined the meaning to be, 'We're here for your daughter, Chuck'. In our brief shock of the interpreted demand, we quickly redirected them to the Watch as we had no daughter's in camp worthy of relinquishment to foreign strangers and felt that the Watch would be much better suited to respond with their demand.
Woden's day dawned with pain. A nagging injury in my sword arm kept me in camp for most of the day. For this reason, I missed the dreadful Ravine battle that occupied the mid-morning hours. I missed the shield time with the army, but set myself to chores around Fox's Den. By noon, the fighting was done and our soldiers returned from the skirmish worn but happy.
During the morning hours, James paid me a visit. James, currently a citizen of Trimaris, used to reside in my home shire of Easaraigh before he heard the siren's call of opportunity in the south and left our border's for adventures beyond. We had a good visit. We shared some lengthy discussion on the nature of Man-at-arms and Squires, the differences in our kingdom customs and the philosophy of those relationships. It was a good encounter and I felt much joy in sharing what knowledge and wisdom I had with my friend.
Marek, Styrbjorn and I made our way to the merchants area in the early afternoon. Once there, we stopped to watch part of the Rose Tourney. I soon found myself recruited to support the List Mistress and Heralds for the tournament. My compatriots made their way to the Herald's point for a consultation.
The Rose Tournament was well fought and very clean when compared to prior years I had witnessed. The format started as a 'pool' with 4 fields. The winner and 'Rose's Choice' from each pool progressed into a single elimination final. From my perspective on the sidelines, it appears that the participants, Rose's and spectators all enjoyed the spectacle. The fighters were well mannered and demonstrated great respect and virtue to their opponents and their Rose sponsors. I hope the format carries forward into future Gulf Wars events. This was a tribute to what the tournament should be and a fine representation of what every person in the Order of the Rose should expect out of an event that shares the name of that most gracious and honored Order.
That evening, I took on the mantle of 'King of the Fire' again. My camp mates were a little un-nerved by the previous night's foreign visitors. To that end I maintained vigil over the fire and Fox's Den. The night was uneventful and the fire was maintained.
The Meridian Army was called to rally at the Green Dragon on Thor's Day as the Champion's tournament progressed. I assembled with my sword brothers and sisters. Much anticipation could be felt as we prepared for the Field engagement to come on Hastings Field. After a short time, we assembled in columns as Sir Mandin called cadence for our short trip to the field.
The Champions tournament was still on going as we arrived to the field. It appears to hold all the pomp that type of action usually has. There were many good matches for the pleasure of the crowns and populace in attendance.
The armies assembling, the royalty must have felt the urgency for battle. The champions Tournament was ended before all the designated champions had stepped onto the field. All warriors and Royals alike, quickly joined their armies and prepared for the fight to come.
The Field Battle was fought in 5 engagements on Hastings Field. While I was feeling better from my previous ailment, I was only able to support 3 engagements before I was unable to hold my sword. I admit, a 'mood' came over me as I retired from the field early… again. I was very thankful for the water that James and Master Izzy provided me and their concern for my wellbeing.
The skirmishes that I was able to participate in seemed…disorganized. Most of the soldiery seemed to be enjoying themselves regardless. For my part, I felt isolated. The army, to me, seemed to be acting in the stereotypical 'Amoeba' fashion that we Meridian's often joke about. From my perspective in the front, my only duty seemed to be move forward to death and hope to disrupt the opponent in the process so someone behind me could achieve glory. Lost was any organized effort to 'stick together' and survive contact. Afterward, in talking with my peer, Benen, I realized more of our lack of organization and generally celebrated individualized action during that melee and the others I had previously fought in as a shield man for Meridies. Our Army, while stout, appears to be operating as a collection of Champions with many individuals, like myself, carried along as grist for the mill so the Champions can carry on the fight. As 'grist', it can be a tiring and deflating experience. Gone are the great house, shire and baronial units of old (with a couple of notable exceptions - Kraw Heer and Lions/Tigers/Bears). There are no more organized cohorts in the North, East or West. There is no 'Osprey' or 'Stone Castle' to hold the line. I'm not even sure that as a fighting army, Meridies even bothers to hold the line anymore. We seem more intent on a 'Git'em' tactic. I feel we can do better. I think others do as well. I wonder if our leadership in the Chivalry and Bear see what I see and think what I think. Time will tell. I will remain vigilant and hope that our fighting community in Meridies looks to return to a position of strength on the field for the waves of enemy to break upon.
The end of Thor's Day was capped off with Meridian court and a pay ceremony that was a brilliant feat to participate in. Payment in salt, bead, coin and trinket was administered to all the Meridian subjects present by the Royal Quartermaster. The King and Queen personally thanked everyone there. Marek, Strybjorn and I all stood for Easaraigh in the procession. It’s was a grand gesture that I had not witnessed before. I hope those in attendance appreciate the thoughtfulness and generosity displayed by Timothy and Ysmay during the ceremony and shout their praises to any who will listen. Timothy and Ysmay are great and true to Meridies, long may they reign.
After the pay ceremony, a tiger appeared in court. Yes. A tiger. This ranks high in the annals of strange court events. Luckily, a troop of Templar knights dispatched the beast. Such a strange thing to occur. I hope this was not a portent of some dire event in the days and weeks to come.
Toward the end of court, I was surprised to be called to the royal presence, along with my wife Ellen, who was not in attendance. Timothy and Ysmay, these most gracious and excellent royals, recognized Ellen and I with the Orders of Meridian Majesty and Sovereign's Pleasure for our service to them over the past months. Their comments where heartfelt and warm. I was happy to have provided any service or comfort for them and would do so again. I left their presence with joy in my heart and comfort in the knowledge that Meridies in the in the hands of good sovereigns.
My mood was much better after court, allowing me to forget my sour experience on the field. My shire mates and I sought sustenance after court. Then we departed ways as I visited with Severin and Benen to share in my good fortune.
Freya must have been sad. As Frey's day came to light, the rain came and saturated the war camp with her tears. I was providing service to His Majesty Tim along with Legio Uv Orkney that morning. We stayed mostly dry until call of battle, which were rumored to have been cancelled, rang over the camp and his Majesty left his camp to seek foes. We found a small group on Hastings field shortly thereafter. Legio, Isaac and His Majesty donned armor and sought challengers while I, still hampered by injury, watched on.
As my obligation to HRM expired, I sought sustenance and a 'dry place' as the rain continued. Eventually I found my way to Benen and Rosabelle's tent where I sought shelter and warmth. Spirits were low in Freya's sadness, as is the nature with such things. Everything was waterlogged. Benen and I were able to procure some joy from the bakery in the form of warm goods from there. But, it was short-lived.
Marek and Styrbjorn found me and I joined them in their shopping along Merchants Row in the rain. I was already wet so resolved that it was just the way of things for the day. We returned to camp eventually and Marek and Styrbjorn decided to join the trains departing for home that evening. I helped the pack up and saw them on their way with a farewell and Godspeed.
For the rest of us in Foxe's Den, we prepped for an early departure on Saturn's day. Freya's mourning would continue and none of us wished to be there for more of her sadness. For our efforts that evening and my early rousing the next morning, we were rewarded with everything loaded out and prepared for the journey north before more rain set in. We had some difficulty getting our large wagon up the incline out of our camp. But with Legio's larger horses, we were able to get our large wagon out of camp to more level ground suitable for our smaller beasts to pull from. Sometimes, Romans are nice to have around.
The journey north into Meridian lands was uneventful until we arrived near the lands of Glenn Rye. There I made a poor decision with steerage of our wagon and blocked the road. Because of this a local traveler passing through became enraged that I blocked the road and sought conflict with me. This was quickly deflated with an admission of mistake on my part and apologies. The traveler, while still agitated, went on his way. I and my travelling companions were unnerved, but soon moved on from the incident. One must always be on their guard.
As dusk settled in, we found ourselves through the southern passes and back in the safety of baronial lands around Glaedenfeld. We arrived at Valdrick's manor house that evening to a warm welcome.
From there, I bid my fellows adieu and traveled home to my warm hearth in Easaraigh. It was a short trip in the darkness along a path I know well. Home and happy, Gulf Wars was over.
In looking back, Gulf Wars was it's typical, grandiose self. It is and shall be for the foreseeable future a premier destination for the SCAdian experience. There were highs and lows, as there always is, but it's well worth the trip. I met new friends and peers, as well as revisited friendships with those far from my day to day life. I provided service to my Kingdom and friends. I found joy in simple things and recognition by my King and Queen. I found my SCA as I know it to be.
Well met friends. Safe journey to thee!
THL Eoin Mac Cana called 'Clyde', CACM, CKP2, CAS
Warden of the Northern Plateau
Squire to Earl Benen Mac Tire, KSCA, OL, OP
Knight Marshal, Shire of Easaraigh
Kingdom of Meridies
To that end, I made my final preparations and in the early hours of the 8th of March, our caravan departed from the Baronial lands of Glaedenfeld for points south. On the journey, I accompanied Sir Valdrick's squire, John Mailor and his betrothed, Kehinde. John and I provided security for the trip while Kehinde acted as Quartermaster and camp leader for our enterprise. Additionally, we had a trail party in the form of that most infamous Roman, Legio.
We made good time through the pass near Vulpine's Reach into the flat expanses of An Dun Theine and Glynn Rhe. We took rest in the safety of the Iron Mountain before continuing our journey past the last Meridian protectoriate of Oakborne Keep and into the neighboring Kingdom of Gleann Abhann.
John and I remained alert as we travelled into the wilds of that Kingdom. Bandits had been known to prey on caravans in the border region that has found itself to be beyond the reach of both the Meridian and Gleann Abhann patrols, but we found ourselves safely to the wooden walls of the Shire of Dragouns Weal none-the-less and to the war camp just beyond.
The war camp of Fox's Den was found to be in excellent order as the woodsmen of that area had been conscripted to keep an eye on the grounds there. Our party made quick work of establishing camp. We were quite pleased with our efforts and soon had everything in good order and ready for the war to come.
Legio, a most enterprising Roman, had a very impressive kitchen of his own creation with pantry, basin and stove. So impressed were the camp followers, that many visitors came to our camp and spent time interrogating him on how this or that was created, setup or done.
On the 9th of March, those well-known peers, Corbin and Izzy arrived to camp and were quickly settled in as we made preparations for storms that scouts and other travelers arriving in camp told us would be coming. That evening we had our fire going bright and a closing day routine was established around our camp fire recounting of the day, sharing stories and the easy company of good camp mates.
While I can't remember all of the tales I was regaled with around the fire, I do recall an account that Legio shared about 'What it takes to make the grade' and the ramifications of failing in that course of action. You might even take him out for lunch some time to discuss. I'm sure he would enjoy that. Additionally, Corbin was kind enough to share his skill at toasting 'marsh mellows'. Many theories where shared on that subject during the war as well as how to maintain one's grooming in good condition during the act.
On the 10th, my most noble peers, Earl Benen and Countess Rosabelle, arrived at the war camp with their provisions for sale. I spent a good part of that day with them rendering what assistance I could as they prepared their stores for the throngs of men-at-arms, knights, masters, squires, proteges. apprentices and other camp followers that would beg for their worthy wares. Having them settled, I returned to Fox's Den.
In the early morning of the 11th, storm clouds rolled over Fox's Den like a dark, damp blanket of smoke and the rain came. We had the 'Den' well prepared for the storm and I spent a goodly part of that morning in the jovial comradery of the Den's residents in the camp kitchen: Grand Master's Izzy and Corbin, Legio, John and Kehinde as well as some newer arrivals the camp in the form of the Teutonic Tornado Siegfried with his lady Fidela (of Mongol origins) and Corbin's man Stefano with his family.
Sun's day dawned on a calm and tranquil camp. The final preparations for the upcoming conflict played out throughout the day and more baggage trains and soldiery arrived in support of the effort. Ben, from Crimson River arrived in the 'Den and was made welcome. Most of the day was spent in rest.
One important encounter of the day involved my first face to face meeting with Sir Severin Visconti di Milano. We had previously exchanged missives, but this was our first in person meeting. This is of import as Sir Severin is of Earl Sir Benen's lineage tree and a 'brother' to me being Benen's squire. Sir Severin is a most noble and knowledgeable peer. I am happy and proud to know him and hope to know him better as time moves on. I am definitely wealthier in the company of this man.
That evening, I was beckoned attend the King, Timothy, as a retainer for a Royal Cocktail party held in the Southern Consortium camp. This camp is most impressive. Of its denizens, the most noble house of Excelsior's flag is most prominent. That house, in support of their Majesties, had made preparations for a most impressive and lavish spectacle of the very best our Meridian kingdom can offer.
As royals of the other great kingdoms and principalities arrived, it was obvious (to mine eyes at least) that there was much avarice in their demeanor as they witness that which our royal house put before them. Those great visitors where welcomed into camp by both Their Royal Majesties, Timothy and Ysabel, and the Royal Heirs, Thorstenn and Dalla. After the greeting, they were enticed with delicacies of our kingdom ranging from Venison to aged liquors and meads. The kings chef for the evening, Bram Halfdannarson, spared no herb or spice in his preparations. I noted many in attendance all but drooling as the entrees were paraded through the populace. My tour of duty that evening was mostly of little note. As the royals when about their jovial royal business, I remained at my post throughout the evening, seen but unheard and observant to the needs of those I attended. I did have one brief encounter of note with Their Majesties Middle Kingdom, Cellach and Vukasin. We had a brief discussion of heraldic elements. As I was in my personal heraldic livery, Their Majesties noted the lozengy component that decorated my hem. My own personal heraldry shares some common elements with HRM Cellach. It's nice to know that the leader of the Dragon Army has good taste when it comes to heraldic application. TRMs Middle are very cordial and friendly peers, which I found very contradictory to the fierceness I have seen in HRM Cellach on the field. The rest of my evening was uneventful. As my duty came to a close, I made my way back to the 'Den and found my cot and rest.
Moon's Day, 13 Mar on the Gregorian calendar, found us with another slow day of war preparations. The prior evening was cold and we were instore of more cold evenings before the war ended. Fire wood was prepared and we managed to maintain a smoldering fire from the previous day for several days from this point on. My shire mates, Marek and Styrbjorn, arrived with the morning caravans. We helped them get quartered and did some exploring of the larger war camp during the mid-day.
It was during this time that I encountered Sir Marek of Aethelmarc and delivered a 2 sets of Demi-gauntlets for his use. Sir Marek is a fine example of chivalry and a respected friend who has offered me sound advice from time to time and continues to do so. One evening during the war, he offered some 'therapy' for an injury I had to my sword arm. The therapy was sound and judging by the amount of pain he induced upon me, I'm sure the evil spirits causing my problem will be going about their way soon. Earl Benen attempted to 'help' with the treatment, but I must confess that Sir Marek was more knowledgeable in the application.
On Tyr's day, opening ceremonies were held. My beloved kingdom of Meridies found itself aligned with Gleann Abhann and many of the smaller contingents against the kingdoms of Ansteorra, Trimaris, and Calontir as well as a few others. A most daunting challenge as these opposing kingdoms could form large units with stout shield walls in front of fierce spear, polearm and bow. The first major battle soon followed in for form of a Town battle with resurrection with both sides taking a turn in the attack and the defense.
Before the battle, I was attending Her Majesty Ysabel. During the service, I was able to witness a portion of the Diamond Tourney. Our Meridian Champions, Sir Locklinn and Lord Nikoslav, finished the tournament in 2nd place with grace and honor for the glory of the kingdom.
Her Majesty intended to join the ranks of Meridian Combat Archers during the upcoming town battle and I would carry a pavais and act as protector for HRM during the engagement. Unfortunately, a lowly page (which I believe was flogged thoroughly later that eve) failed to pack Her Majesties armor for the journey to Gulf Wars. So, her majesty, who was obviously distraught at not being able to participate, released me to join the fray of the town battle, which was already in progress.
With gratitude, I left Her Majesty and joined my comrades who were already engaged in the assault. The battle, like many I am involved in as a shield bearer, was enjoyable. Phases of no activity were spiked with periods of intense action throughout the engagement. Having been off the field for many months, I found myself pushed to my limits before the final blows were felt and had to retire from the field early. I was not happy in the leaving, but satisfied that I did help some with our army's objectives.
Later that evening, as we sat around the Fox's Den campfire recounting the day's action, strangers came into the light of our kindling with odd demands in a barely understood language. Through some discussion, we determined the meaning to be, 'We're here for your daughter, Chuck'. In our brief shock of the interpreted demand, we quickly redirected them to the Watch as we had no daughter's in camp worthy of relinquishment to foreign strangers and felt that the Watch would be much better suited to respond with their demand.
Woden's day dawned with pain. A nagging injury in my sword arm kept me in camp for most of the day. For this reason, I missed the dreadful Ravine battle that occupied the mid-morning hours. I missed the shield time with the army, but set myself to chores around Fox's Den. By noon, the fighting was done and our soldiers returned from the skirmish worn but happy.
During the morning hours, James paid me a visit. James, currently a citizen of Trimaris, used to reside in my home shire of Easaraigh before he heard the siren's call of opportunity in the south and left our border's for adventures beyond. We had a good visit. We shared some lengthy discussion on the nature of Man-at-arms and Squires, the differences in our kingdom customs and the philosophy of those relationships. It was a good encounter and I felt much joy in sharing what knowledge and wisdom I had with my friend.
Marek, Styrbjorn and I made our way to the merchants area in the early afternoon. Once there, we stopped to watch part of the Rose Tourney. I soon found myself recruited to support the List Mistress and Heralds for the tournament. My compatriots made their way to the Herald's point for a consultation.
The Rose Tournament was well fought and very clean when compared to prior years I had witnessed. The format started as a 'pool' with 4 fields. The winner and 'Rose's Choice' from each pool progressed into a single elimination final. From my perspective on the sidelines, it appears that the participants, Rose's and spectators all enjoyed the spectacle. The fighters were well mannered and demonstrated great respect and virtue to their opponents and their Rose sponsors. I hope the format carries forward into future Gulf Wars events. This was a tribute to what the tournament should be and a fine representation of what every person in the Order of the Rose should expect out of an event that shares the name of that most gracious and honored Order.
That evening, I took on the mantle of 'King of the Fire' again. My camp mates were a little un-nerved by the previous night's foreign visitors. To that end I maintained vigil over the fire and Fox's Den. The night was uneventful and the fire was maintained.
The Meridian Army was called to rally at the Green Dragon on Thor's Day as the Champion's tournament progressed. I assembled with my sword brothers and sisters. Much anticipation could be felt as we prepared for the Field engagement to come on Hastings Field. After a short time, we assembled in columns as Sir Mandin called cadence for our short trip to the field.
The Champions tournament was still on going as we arrived to the field. It appears to hold all the pomp that type of action usually has. There were many good matches for the pleasure of the crowns and populace in attendance.
The armies assembling, the royalty must have felt the urgency for battle. The champions Tournament was ended before all the designated champions had stepped onto the field. All warriors and Royals alike, quickly joined their armies and prepared for the fight to come.
The Field Battle was fought in 5 engagements on Hastings Field. While I was feeling better from my previous ailment, I was only able to support 3 engagements before I was unable to hold my sword. I admit, a 'mood' came over me as I retired from the field early… again. I was very thankful for the water that James and Master Izzy provided me and their concern for my wellbeing.
The skirmishes that I was able to participate in seemed…disorganized. Most of the soldiery seemed to be enjoying themselves regardless. For my part, I felt isolated. The army, to me, seemed to be acting in the stereotypical 'Amoeba' fashion that we Meridian's often joke about. From my perspective in the front, my only duty seemed to be move forward to death and hope to disrupt the opponent in the process so someone behind me could achieve glory. Lost was any organized effort to 'stick together' and survive contact. Afterward, in talking with my peer, Benen, I realized more of our lack of organization and generally celebrated individualized action during that melee and the others I had previously fought in as a shield man for Meridies. Our Army, while stout, appears to be operating as a collection of Champions with many individuals, like myself, carried along as grist for the mill so the Champions can carry on the fight. As 'grist', it can be a tiring and deflating experience. Gone are the great house, shire and baronial units of old (with a couple of notable exceptions - Kraw Heer and Lions/Tigers/Bears). There are no more organized cohorts in the North, East or West. There is no 'Osprey' or 'Stone Castle' to hold the line. I'm not even sure that as a fighting army, Meridies even bothers to hold the line anymore. We seem more intent on a 'Git'em' tactic. I feel we can do better. I think others do as well. I wonder if our leadership in the Chivalry and Bear see what I see and think what I think. Time will tell. I will remain vigilant and hope that our fighting community in Meridies looks to return to a position of strength on the field for the waves of enemy to break upon.
The end of Thor's Day was capped off with Meridian court and a pay ceremony that was a brilliant feat to participate in. Payment in salt, bead, coin and trinket was administered to all the Meridian subjects present by the Royal Quartermaster. The King and Queen personally thanked everyone there. Marek, Strybjorn and I all stood for Easaraigh in the procession. It’s was a grand gesture that I had not witnessed before. I hope those in attendance appreciate the thoughtfulness and generosity displayed by Timothy and Ysmay during the ceremony and shout their praises to any who will listen. Timothy and Ysmay are great and true to Meridies, long may they reign.
After the pay ceremony, a tiger appeared in court. Yes. A tiger. This ranks high in the annals of strange court events. Luckily, a troop of Templar knights dispatched the beast. Such a strange thing to occur. I hope this was not a portent of some dire event in the days and weeks to come.
Toward the end of court, I was surprised to be called to the royal presence, along with my wife Ellen, who was not in attendance. Timothy and Ysmay, these most gracious and excellent royals, recognized Ellen and I with the Orders of Meridian Majesty and Sovereign's Pleasure for our service to them over the past months. Their comments where heartfelt and warm. I was happy to have provided any service or comfort for them and would do so again. I left their presence with joy in my heart and comfort in the knowledge that Meridies in the in the hands of good sovereigns.
My mood was much better after court, allowing me to forget my sour experience on the field. My shire mates and I sought sustenance after court. Then we departed ways as I visited with Severin and Benen to share in my good fortune.
Freya must have been sad. As Frey's day came to light, the rain came and saturated the war camp with her tears. I was providing service to His Majesty Tim along with Legio Uv Orkney that morning. We stayed mostly dry until call of battle, which were rumored to have been cancelled, rang over the camp and his Majesty left his camp to seek foes. We found a small group on Hastings field shortly thereafter. Legio, Isaac and His Majesty donned armor and sought challengers while I, still hampered by injury, watched on.
As my obligation to HRM expired, I sought sustenance and a 'dry place' as the rain continued. Eventually I found my way to Benen and Rosabelle's tent where I sought shelter and warmth. Spirits were low in Freya's sadness, as is the nature with such things. Everything was waterlogged. Benen and I were able to procure some joy from the bakery in the form of warm goods from there. But, it was short-lived.
Marek and Styrbjorn found me and I joined them in their shopping along Merchants Row in the rain. I was already wet so resolved that it was just the way of things for the day. We returned to camp eventually and Marek and Styrbjorn decided to join the trains departing for home that evening. I helped the pack up and saw them on their way with a farewell and Godspeed.
For the rest of us in Foxe's Den, we prepped for an early departure on Saturn's day. Freya's mourning would continue and none of us wished to be there for more of her sadness. For our efforts that evening and my early rousing the next morning, we were rewarded with everything loaded out and prepared for the journey north before more rain set in. We had some difficulty getting our large wagon up the incline out of our camp. But with Legio's larger horses, we were able to get our large wagon out of camp to more level ground suitable for our smaller beasts to pull from. Sometimes, Romans are nice to have around.
The journey north into Meridian lands was uneventful until we arrived near the lands of Glenn Rye. There I made a poor decision with steerage of our wagon and blocked the road. Because of this a local traveler passing through became enraged that I blocked the road and sought conflict with me. This was quickly deflated with an admission of mistake on my part and apologies. The traveler, while still agitated, went on his way. I and my travelling companions were unnerved, but soon moved on from the incident. One must always be on their guard.
As dusk settled in, we found ourselves through the southern passes and back in the safety of baronial lands around Glaedenfeld. We arrived at Valdrick's manor house that evening to a warm welcome.
From there, I bid my fellows adieu and traveled home to my warm hearth in Easaraigh. It was a short trip in the darkness along a path I know well. Home and happy, Gulf Wars was over.
In looking back, Gulf Wars was it's typical, grandiose self. It is and shall be for the foreseeable future a premier destination for the SCAdian experience. There were highs and lows, as there always is, but it's well worth the trip. I met new friends and peers, as well as revisited friendships with those far from my day to day life. I provided service to my Kingdom and friends. I found joy in simple things and recognition by my King and Queen. I found my SCA as I know it to be.
Well met friends. Safe journey to thee!
THL Eoin Mac Cana called 'Clyde', CACM, CKP2, CAS
Warden of the Northern Plateau
Squire to Earl Benen Mac Tire, KSCA, OL, OP
Knight Marshal, Shire of Easaraigh
Kingdom of Meridies
