Clyde's Travels - Magna Faire 2024

Camp Meadowbrook
Cullman, AL
Hosted by the Barony of Iron Mountain
December 7, 2024

In the veiled, becalmed morning that bespoke of Skadi’s cold embrace, I made my way to the southern passes, out onto the rolling hills that lie below the Cumbrian plateau of northern Meridies. The highways were clear as I made my way listening to a bard’s tale concerning the 2nd book of the Bobiverse. The lands of Iron Mountain would be my destination and the fierce, hardy folk that make their home there would be my host for their annual Magna Faire, a holiday oriented event with A&S competitions, tournaments and merriment.

I made good time and arrived to the site, Camp Meadowbrook, just as activities were gearing up for the day's festivities. The camp, near Cullman, AL, is a renovated site that had suffered through severe storm damage several years ago. The current iteration of the camp is a modern conference center type of facility with wide open spaces and meeting areas inside and out for attendees to use. The Barony of Iron Mountain was using the camp again after many years and is hoping to use it more in the future.

Camp Meadowbrook

I spent most of my time at the tourney field. I state this only to say that I missed most of the Arts and Sciences displays and classes that were held. I did catch glimpses of Sir Erik Martel’s diadems and tools display as well as Lady Ingridr Thorvaldsdottir’s paintings. Amazing skill on display in both. They both scored high in judging. There were several other entries and displays that I did not see unfortunately. At Magna Faire, there are two arts and sciences challenges. The Magna Faire open and a Kingdom Regional Faire are both offered for A&S entries. Entrants can have their submissions entered in one or both faires.  The Magna Faire allows entrants to judge each other's work to determine the winner of each category and overall faire champion. The regional faire is judged by Order of the Laurel peers and scored on the entry's merit alone. I believe scores were announced for 5 or 6 entries from the Kingdom Regional faire.  Dame Karis Pursey was the Magna Faire champion, but I did not get to see the winning entry to my chagrin. She did win several categories that were announced in court that afternoon to a raucus applause.

There were several classes taught throughout the day. I have provided a list of them here for your reference. Duchess Yasamin, who taught the 'Fancy Pants' class below as given a writ for the Order of the Laurel at court that evening.

List of classes at Magna Faire 2024

I was privileged to take part in a Toys-4-Tots tournament. The entry fee being a toy for donation. I brought several toys as did many others for both the armored and rapier tournaments. Over 200 toys in all from around 35 combatants. Huzzah! 

Duke Garick and Sir Richard in combat during Toys-4-Tots tournament

On the armored tournament field, we only had 9 combatants. The tournament was a double elimination tournament. Each fight was a best two of three passes to determine the victor. I went three rounds before I was out of the list. The two gentles in the final were the two that put me out, Sir Chinua and Duke Garick. All the fighters were very skilled and battled with grace and chivalry. Duke Garick won the day with sword and buckler. The buckler he wielded was a prize he won in a previous Toys-4-Tots tournament, so it has a neat bit of nostalgia and a good memory for him I hope.

Meridian Order of the Blade Invitation Tournament participants

The rapier combatants had 2 tournaments. They had the Toy-4-Tots tournament in parallel with the armored tournament. The Meridian Order of the Blade also held an invitational tournament with 26 combatants participating. Duke Timothy was victorious in both tournaments. His voice could be heard all day to the tune of Malory’s Morte d’Authur. His commentary was much to the enjoyment of all within earshot. He also demonstrated great generosity in court by bestowing the prize he received from the invitational tournament unto the fighter he bested, His Lordship Roy MacLucas.

I was able to sit some brief time in a social vigil setting with Sir Seumas, who would be elevated in court by TRMs Barthelemy and Oda later. Being his third peerage, he was as close as a person can be to a professional at the art of the vigil. The affair was cozy and comfortable with a fire pit and a good assortment of appetizers. The conversation was light hearted with smiles and memories shared. My kind of vigil. He’s a good SCAdian and a good peer in all regards.

Seumas's Vigil

I missed lunch. Because, I was fighting. It’s a dumb fighter thing that I do all the time. Shame on me. So, I cannot comment on the lunch that was served. Luckily I was able to get a bit a sustenance from my haversack and from what was served at Seumas’s vigil.

I closed the day with some entourage time bearing the sword of state in court. Over my time, I have had this honor a few instances now. Generally, the sword is held upright like a standard in procession and in court when standing behind the throne. Other than holding it properly, knowing the queues in court for when it is to be used in the business of the court is important. It can also be a small endurance test to just hold the sword up for the duration of court. The task itself is relatively simple but, it is not ever a burden and one of the most important parts of the grand spectacle of a royal court.

The sword of state is heavy with a history of the hands of all the monarchs to have cleared it from its sheath. It has seen many trials and tribulations, numerous  triumphs and celebrations, oaths sworn beyond counting. The weight of the sword is more than the sum of its making. It is the kingdom in material form. If you should ever be called to bear a sword of state, hold contemplation for those that came before and what that tool represents. Let the words of all those oaths spoken in its company flow through you and lend you strength. To bear a sword of state is not just a trivial function of service, it is an honor to hold dear and a part of the dream we create for our hobby. It is a privilege given to few and a way to pay homage to your sovereigns and to your kingdom. Treat it as thus and the weight of it becomes that of a feather.

Court business closed, I helped with tear down and load out before making my way back north to the lands of Cumbria, high on the northern plateau. My journey carried me home late in the evening, the bard’s voice continuing the Bobiverse tale from earlier in the day. Home, right where I left it, was bright and warm and welcoming. Farewell friends and safe journey unto thee.

By my hand, this 9th day of December, Anno Societatis LIX being 2024 Gregorian, I am,

Meistr Eoin Mac Cana, OP

Warden of the Nothern Plateau

Squire to Earl Benen MacTire

Shire of Easaraigh

Kingdom of Meridies

SCA, Inc

Clyde's Travels - Castle Wars: The Ancient Olympic Games

Bert Adams Scout Camp
Covington, GA
Hosted by the Barony of South Downs
November 21-24, 2024

As the autumnal celebratory preparations were manifesting in the Cumbrian lands of northern Meridies, I made my way through the southern passes to the heartland of our fair kingdom to the event known as Castle Wars. Hosted by the Barony of South Downs, the annual event has become a regular call to arms for training and planning for the army of Meridies. Added to this year's call, the sovereign had proclaimed a war council be held with representation from all the martial orders of our kingdom.

Photo by me.

I arrived at the war camp in the late evening on the 22nd of November. A chill was settling in the fall breeze. The walls of the hill fort stood tall in dusk shadow. Winter’s slumber was attempting to cover the camp in its embrace. Staying in a nearby inn, I corralled my horse and cart at the local stable before making my way into the camp proper to meet compatriots and find a warm fire. 

 

There were two peerage vigils slated for the evening, Captain Stefano Roggio (MoD) and THLady Essyllt Þrasa Fostra (Pelican). While I waited for the candidates to be put on vigil, I wandered a bit, helped setup a tent or two, and chatted with friends I came across. This being the first event since my own elevation, there were several people who, unable to attend the event where the action took place, offered commendation for the accolade. I accepted the commentary with my usual awkwardness or simple ‘thank you’. I am truly happy that folks think enough to recognize the achievement, even if I attempt to fly under cover and not draw attention to it. I am making an effort to not downplay the whole ‘thing’ in my efforts to move on and continue doing my own thing. It’s a bit of trying to find new footing with the new status.

 

Photo by me.

So anyway, I thought I would try to attend the vigils and do unto others now that I’m a peer. I did not attend vigils as a general rule prior to becoming a peer myself. It was a decision I made a while back, influenced by old SCA theory in my head. Specifically, it wasn’t that I don’t go to vigils, it is that I did not sign up for the ‘one on one’ time with the candidate that occurs during the vigil. Which, is the most important part of it and the whole point of the vigil. Yes, my vigil philosophy may have been dumb, especially in the light of current practice. As I write this, I don’t have a good answer as to why I set this personal rule in effect. <scratching head> Maybe, it’s a couple of things. For one, I wasn’t a peer and felt that advice and counsel for a  new peer should come from someone already in the order(s). Second, if I am honest with myself, I have a certain amount of discomfort in those situations where there is an expectation of something from me in what I consider a personal space. It’s claustrophobic and uncomfortable to me. While my elevation changed the first thing, it did not clear the second thing for me. With all of this in mind, I went to both vigils and chickened out on actually sitting down with either of them. Maybe Ill seek them out in a less formal space and offer some words of wisdom. Both, thankfully, had a vigil book. So, I took to quill and parchment and left them a message that I hope would have been as good as anything I might have said in person to them. It was a small thing, but felt right and still does. When I think of all the people that attended mine and spoke to me, I know I lost a lot of what was said. That silly vigil book though.. now that lasts and as long as they can read my handwriting will be with them. I think I am OK with that and maybe that will be my way to give them their due and share my bit of knowledge. 

 

Late in the evening I departed and retired to my room at the inn for rest.

 

The following day was heralded by clear, bright, blue skies. The good breeze blew banners proudly with a chill touch to it. It was not uncomfortable but ideal for martial activities.

 

As the army gathered, I socialized and offered some assistance to the royal retinue with pavilion and throne. To warmup and shake out my kit, I fought a few bouts with Sir Erick Griffin, an always worthy opponent. Soon thereafter, Sir Fiachna mac Phiaraic called us to the field for the scheduled battles.

I want to take a moment to shine some sunlight on the efforts of Sir Fiachna. As an armored combatant, I will say that it is and has always been a ‘damn fine’ experience having the honor to participate in combat scenarios he designs. The attention to detail is phenomenal. The historical hooks grounding them is masterful. We never get the same ole’ stuff when we play in his sandbox. I wholly look forward to being part of what he plans for our community. He challenges us on tactic and strategy. He revels in not only our enjoyment of his plan but in equal measure when we find a way to break his plan through our ingenuity.  There are very few in our community with a real knack for designing combat scenarios. Sir Fiachna is a true architect and master of the skill. Thank you, sir. Thank you.

Photo by me.

The scenarios, all based on Greek historical battles, led us through antiquity from the walls of Troy to Hellsgate to Greek myth. I fought my role as a shield man with tower shield and sword. I regret not being on the same side with my warband comrades, but team balancing was important and I went with Crawhere to the opposing side. There were many green hoods (the warband badge of affiliation) on the field, the warband is strong and I was happy to test my mettle against them and provide them a worthy challenge when I opposed them. Through several scenarios, outlines linked to this report, I did my best to fill my role within the tactical need demanded by the scenario. Most of this meant standing ground and owning control points and bottlenecks in the layout. This is the type of fighting I do well in and I had a blast. The toll of exhaustion hit hard later in the day, though.  If you every wanted to know what is was like to be a rock pounded by ocean waves, the work I did this day was a good facsimile. The combat was good. Friendly. Lots of smiling faces everywhere I looked. It was a really good fighting experience.

 

Sir Fiachnas scenarios page 1

Sir Fiachnas scenarios page 2

Later in the afternoon, my agenda took me from the fighting field to order meetings. The Bough, Legio Ursi, and Sable Sword all held counsel with our sovereigns. There was also a war council gathering. After that, I attended court as retinue for HRM and stood with the thrones to witness many recognitions and the wealth of our Kingdom in deed, story and generosity on display. I watched, first hand, the ceremonies for Master Stephano and Mistress Essylit and the bestowing of their regalia. I saw new bears being added to the ursine mantle and many new branches added to the Bough. The court was long, but worthy. Two more artifacts of Meridies past joined the Horn of Fidelity, the Mirror of Veritas and the Shield of Vert Pine. These were presented to their Majesties in court. The Iron Legion and Sir Conal Mac Dale and his Argonauts returning them home. The quest to advert the unknown peril as foretold by sorcerer Malachar proceeds well. Eight artifacts from Meridian history are required to stave off the threat. Three of the artifacts have been found now, 5 more to go.

Photo by me.

Court closed, I served a bit longer into the evening before HRM released me. My vigor spent, I packed my day camp and headed back to the inn for rest. The site, Camp Bert Adams, is a really nice place to visit with good facilities. The journey to site from the Cumbrian plateau to the north can be challenging but manageable. I left the Inn the following morning and made the trek North. My travel home was thankfully uneventful, making the journey in good time.

 

I heap praise on the Barony of South Downs for an excellent day in the sun. Your bountiful hospitality and welcoming nature always makes visiting a worthwhile endeavor. Thank you.

Meistr Eoin Mac Cana, OP
Warden of the Nothern Plateau
Squire to Earl Benen MacTire
Shire of Easaraigh
Kingdom of Meridies
SCA, Inc

Thoughts on my Elevation to the Order of the Pelican

 Surreal. Strange. Wonderous. Unsettling. Joyous.

 

The Order of the Pelican in my home Kingdom of Meridies decided this year that they have had enough of my working behind the scenes and getting away with it. So offended they were by my free-range service to this hobby, they demanded something be done. So, they swooped in and slapped a medallion and Cap of Maintenance on me. Performing the official ‘I got dibs’ that peerage orders of the SCA are known for doing from time to time. The date was November 9th, A.S. LIX being 2024 Gregorian. My last day as a freelance helper and service opportunist.

 

Realization is slowly creeping in on my understanding of my place in the known world. I ‘yam what I yam’. But, I am also not. I feel a subtle resistance to the changes in my perception. I feel as I was before. But, my world is imposing new parameters. Something to come to terms with. Many advised me in my vigil that changes would occur while also telling me to not change who I am. A new balance will be established. This I think I know already. 

 

My path is that of a squire and still is. This Pelican recognition was not expected or planned for. I fight and I serve from the perspective of what I have been taught as a squire. My school of squirely study was one of fighting being the first task, but everything else in this hobby also warrants attention. It’s not enough to just fight. To be a knight, more is expected. That is the foundation laid before me all those years ago as I was first taken as a squire. Most of us old squires live in this ideal.

 

To those new and old squires out there, getting a recognition outside of your chosen path is a frightful thing for some you.  You should not be scared of recognitions that are not fighting related. Some of you might think that receiving a peerage other than the white belt  as a squire is a death knell to the path you are on. I certainly hope not. Many Knights are part if more than in order in the SCA these days. In the earlier history of the Society, being part of an order not related to fighting may have been a thing to be shunned for. A product of a siloing effect that occurred when the orders were more competitive in nature. But in this current Society, an accolade is just more proof of the quality of who you are in the game. Just accept what is given and embrace it. It just makes your resume better when you are weighted and measured by the circle. My two pence.

 

I have been asked and I reiterate it again here, I am content with whatever the people in the big chairs deem to hand out. That’s their right and not something I control or have much say in. That may be simplistic. It probably is. But, this recognition is no exception to the rule. If fact, Ill lean into it a bit. I am even more content with this because it wasn’t just them doing the giving. There was a whole fleet of Pelicans that advised the folks in the big chairs. So, it was a bunch of folks that put this accolade on me. That reality slams humility down on me like a micro-burst thunderstorm cell.

 

The leadup to the vigil was a time full of questions. Some anxiety. A lot of accepted wonder. People doing things for me I can do for myself (and usually do). But, just sitting on my hands and letting stuff happen. It’s wasn’t always easy. The vigil came into being. I was part of it but also not at the same time. It was akin to a small event within the event. Many voices came to see me in my blind. A played my role as best as I could in my amateur understanding of how it works. I recall advice of many common themes. There were some claustrophobic feelings on my part. Not my cup of tea to be honest. But, I enjoyed it even if it did feel a little awkward to me.

 

Court was a blur. Luckily there is video. It was fun and a shock. I felt in a daze though the ceremony. Trying to make eye contact with the speakers and truly listen to what was said. My feet hurt in the kneeling. Don’t squirm. Be in the moment. Warm, dumbfounded, childlike happiness is the lasting impression I have in my mind. Folks asked if I could recite the Fealty Oath, I probably could but not then. Took prompts but I knew the words once I was reminded having uttered them so many times over the years. People making a declaration of my worth before the thrones. Eyes. Wide. Open. That humility hammer came down on me again.

 

Now that it is done, I go to look for the normality that was before all the feathers. I don’t feel different. But… I removed myself from the Meridian Associates Facebook group today. That felt bittersweet for some reason. Events are coming up where I will attempt to just be me again and do my thing. Remains to be seen if I am me or if this is some sort of sequel of me. No cravings for fish at least. 

 

Looking forward to seeing if ‘Making a man a Pelican, makes him a better fighter’. Is that a thing? We’ll see.

 

Curious to see if there are any new ‘demands’ on my time with this new hat. So far, no one has asked me for anything I wasn’t already doing. Probably going to be a bit before that shakes out.

 

I’m a peer and a squire now. A peer by popular demand. A squire by choice. My circumstance is unusual, but I am probably not the only one in the SCA who has ever experienced it. I doubt there are a lot of us going about it the way I have. 

 

Artwork courtesy of Brett Tadlock SCA Ronan of Axebridge

The Pelican mantle says a couple of things about me I would hope. The first is that the service part of my game is on point. The second is that it is evident that I have a good grasp of my PLQs. Just need to not screw up in either of those two points. Just because you got the cookie doesn’t mean you can stop being what got you the cookie.

 

My hobby has been good to me. It’s a place of friendship and escape from the mundane. The SCA gives me my ‘And now for something completely different…’ fix and I love it for that reason. I am so glad it found me and that I have been able to help it continue to be. 

 

Now, back to work…

Meistr Eoin Mac Cana, OP

Warden of the Nothern Plateau

Squire to Earl Benen MacTire

Shire of Easaraigh

Kingdom of Meridies

SCA, Inc

A letter of appreciation and gratitude in honor of my elevation to the Order of the Pelican, SCA.

Salutations unto the great Society of Creative Anachronism, the Kingdom of Meridies, and my friends and family from Eoin Mac Cana, in gratitude and humility.

Please accept these words as my heartfelt and awestruck respect for those who have helped shape my experience and shared in my journey. All of those who I have walked with, followed behind and occasionally held the light for brought me to this, my elevation, to the most noble Order of the Pelican.

To my beloved wife, Ellen Delacey. Councilor and partner, enabler and keeper of my heart, planner-in chief, my tailor, my love. Thank you.

To Ameraulde and Hadi, my first peers, my first household, my first introduction to the world of this hobby and setting the foundation of what service is and should be. Thank you.

To my shire, Easaraigh, and the many voices that have rung in the halls of our hearth fires over the years. Through feast and famine, Easaraigh has been the SCA 'place'  I have called home. Always welcoming, supportive, and a house of happiness. Thank you.

To Benen and Rosabel, my introduction to the wider world of this hobby and community. I would have never seen the wider SCA without you there. Wise beyond words. My horizons have been broadened and my appreciation of what a peer is and can be are ingrained in my ideal through your influence. Thank you.

To those of you in the Order that saw my body of work and felt that my qualities are of value to the cadre, I look forward to meeting you all. You confidence in me is humbling. Thank you.

To Ysmay of Branston, thank you for being my voice and sponsor in the circle. 

Thank you to TRMs Sebastianos and Morgan, for accepting the Order's recommendation and presenting my writ. 

To TRMs Barthelemy and Oda, Thank you for agreeing to perform the induction and administering the ceremony.

To the guards and stewards of my vigil, Thank you for giving of your time so that I could sit my vigil in surety. You honored me. I am in your debt. Cassandra Boseham and Linnet MacLeod for managing my book and flow of visitation. Alessandra Sartor overseeing the victuals and refreshments for my guests. Sigmund Nacht as my sergeant-at-arms and his fyrd consisting of Sindri Bynarrsson, Ronan of Axebridge, Mongo Blackheart, Hallgrimr Thorvaldsson, Nobunaga and Boethius Blackheart standing guard, so that peace reigned.

To all those that came to visit and share in my vigil, Thank you. I am richer in being for your consideration and in the partaking. Thank you so much.

To my wife, Ellen for my elevation tunic and to Sigriðr Reiðubúinsdóttir for the woven work of art that the word 'trim' seems inadequate as a label. Thank you.

To Thorkatla Herjolfsdottir, illuminator and scribe. Master of her craft, applying her trade to create the official instrument and evidence of my elevation. Pure art knows no competition and you have done as much and more than I could have hoped for in your effort. Thank you.

To Timothy of Long Bennington and Ysmay of Branston, the construction of a pennon to fly in the breeze and announce my presence was charged. The product is beautiful and I will be proud to see it soar. Thank you.

To my squire brother, Ronan of Axebridge, the artist, I love the fighting pelican art. All who see it will know that you are its creator and many will know your worth before ever you meet them. Thank you.

To my guy, my consiglieri, my herald, Iain MacArthur… fuhgeddaboudit. You sir, are the best. A bit of humor on a Gulf Wars morning made into pure poetry, you did right by me. Thank you.

To Sigmund and Sindri, for holding my banners high in precession as I heeded Their Majesties call to court. Thank you.

To my worthies, Bryce MacLaren, Seumas Last of Gyver, Jean-Azriel du Corbier, Ysabel de Saincte Croix, Benen MacTire, and Sigmund Nacht: Gravitas and joy in equal parts struck true. Having ones worth laid out before a witnessing populace is an experience I will not soon forget. I feel envigored and ready to go forth with the knowledge of sound footing on my path and a direction true. Thank you.

Lastly, to those of you that I missed in acknowledgement, know no slight intended. It's only my ability to retain a memory at the time of this writing that has failed. Things have been a blur of late. Please remind me when you see me if you desire to do so.

By my hand, this 11th day of November, Anno Societatis LIX being 2024 Gregorian, I am, 

Meistr Eoin Mac Cana, OP

Warden of the Nothern Plateau

Squire to Earl Benen MacTire

Shire of Easaraigh

Kingdom of Meridies

SCA, Inc

Clyde's Travels - Pennsic LI

Cooper's Lake Event Venue and Campground
205 Currie Rd, Slippery Rock, PA 16057
July 27 - August 11, 2024

Pennsic LI, Day 1 - We left the Cumbrian lands early this morning. The travel was grey in appearance but bright in mood. Our journey, uneventful, carried us to the gates of the great Pennsic War. We were greeted by rain upon our arrival. Troll in was expedient and a beautiful site token was presented for our passage through the gates. We found our spot, booth 49 at the corner of Woad and Broadway, mostly as we left it except for one new addition of a freezer to the building behind. Things will be a little tighter, but doable. We setup tents in rain. Marek and Sybilla came by to help. As luck would have it, we came up short on a part of a center pole. But, Sir Marek saved the day with lumber and saw and we were set right in short order. As we established a place to sleep and cover over our head we both felt weariness creeping upon us. We sat under cloudy sky for a bit of rest as a couple of gents came by to chat with the good Earl for a bit. I came close to nodding off a couple of times, but the conversation was lovely and company was good. Long day. Tired. But, we are here. A dry cot and cool evening calls me to sleep. Good night, friends.

Pennsic LI, Day 2 - the day was moist. Considerably so. I managed to get some java and a breakfast roll from the camp store before the fun began. The heavens opened up and the main tent just wasn’t having any of it. It tried really hard to just give up. So, in the heavy rain, the good Earl and I chased runaway tent stakes, slack ropes and sagging canvas. Bolstering the tent with insult, muttering and mallet to good effect. We prevailed. The tent was righted. We were soaked. Eventually the rain subsided and we dove in on setup of the tent to merchant, building fixtures, and unpacking boxes. Marek and Sybilla came to help. The extra hands had us in good order in no time. Later in the afternoon, The good Earl welcomed his new minion. Seems like he has a thing going with the avians here. We conversed late into the evening, before more rain started. So very moist today.

Pennsic LI, day 3: Today, we opened the Renaissance Arts & Design booth business at the corner of Woad and Broadway, near the Ice Cream shop. It was a hot day here, the sunshine was welcomed after the previous days soaking. Stayed behind on hydration all day long. This was evidenced by the extreme wicking of my linen tunic. I almost looked and felt as wet as I was yesterday from standing in the rain. No joke. We got everything in packed and ready for new homes. The shirts all looked eager to fly and many did. I bought rattan today, for folks back home and myself, from Master Erik at Munitions Grade Arms. As I walked the bundle back to camp, I was greeted with calls of ‘save some for the rest of us’ and ‘someone’s been shopping’. It was an impressive bundle. Not bragging or anything. Saw a bard today. Bingo. Adding that to my vampire and twin-tailed balding fox man from yesterday. The good Earl and I closed shop in the late afternoon and supped at the Beast and Boar. Good food and conversation. The evening drew to a somewhat quiet close, both of us a little weary from the heat I think. Good night.

Pennsic LI, Day 4 - today ended up being another hot one. Cooler temps expected tomorrow along with some rain possible. Hope it won’t be the deluge we had on Tuesday. Good company today. Many Benen friends came through today with stories and conversation. We chatted about all manner of things in our idle time. Business was a bit slower. Lesson learned today from a merchant perspective, knowing the Pennsic Mayor and staying in good graces with them is important. They are all powerful and can be benevolent or an enemy of awesome might. Do not be ‘that guy’ in their presence. Did some fabric scouting today. Will go back after the front passes for purchases. Pretty much anything a person could want for SCA kit can be found here. This is the original ‘Mall of the Society’. Reasonable deals are to be had on quality merch. We got groceries and cooked today. Was a nice close to the day. Muggy tonight. The air is heavy. The camp is quiet. Good night, sweethearts, good night.

Pennsic LI, Day 5 - Stormy last night. That, combined with loud neighbors, had my sleep messed up. Oh well. Morning started out with some rain that evolved into a cloudy start for the day. By the afternoon, partly cloudy sky’s and cooler temperatures were established. Spent the day in the shop. Busier today with many new arrivals coming through. The booth was right and tight. Played with some panoramic photos on my phone during a brief lull in the action. Bingo points scored today for elves, a Tolkien dwarf and pirates on a ship. We had to have a judges ruling on a possible wizard yesterday. Ruling was that a wizard needs at least 3 points of authenticity. A pointy hat and grey beard are not enough. The Pennsic mafia, lest they be forgotten, have started making thier rounds. Collections have started. I was also able to catch the cries of youths peddling the Pennsic newsletter. Things are in full tilt here now and Pennsic has a head of steam for next week. Due to the convenience of the camp store and its good selection of fresh produce, we have been able to get salads for dinner a couple of nights this week. There’s a good selection of fresh options there. It’s nice to have some healthy choices. After supper, we went to the Stahlgeist camp to hang out for a bit. Lots of old Pennsic stories were shared over drinks. The good Earl and I returned to our own camp for a night cap of herbal tea and conversation. We had a nice relaxed day. Here’s to hoping the rain holds off in the AM. Good night.

Pennsic LI, Day 6 - it was another supremely moist day. Water fell from the sky most of the day and into the afternoon. We had a little scrambling to do, trying to keep merch and our gear dry. But, success was achieved. Her Excellency Tanis, matriarch of the good Earl’s chivalric lineage, paid us a visit and sat a spell while the heavens rumbled. Pleasant conversation was had and spirits lifted. Duchess Maisie visited and surprised me with a pendant in honor of my writ to Pelican. Nothing like an unexpected gift from an unexpected source to liven your mood and make a grey day brighter. The front passed and sun shown in the later afternoon. We stayed open a little longer today due to the ‘rain delay’ posed by today’s showers. People were out shaking off their stir craziness and we had a nice blitz of traffic for a bit. We added to our bingo card today with a pair of porn-stashed squires straight out of the 1970’s SCA and a Japanese Reta cosplay (I had to have Benen explain that one to me). I gifted the good Earl ‘The Clapper’ today. He installed it and has been clapping his lights on and off all evening to much amusement for us both. Had some tasty Lamb from The Beast and Boar. Mmmmm. We strolled the north merchant area after dinner. I found that Carolina Calicoes was open and launched a FaceTime with Ellen to shop their fabric. Was a good experience with even the merchant staff helping to answer her questions. There was a beautiful sunset this evening. The air is cool tonight. Should make for good sleeping. Goodnight all.

Pennsic LI, Day 7 - Nice day today. Warmish, but manageable. Steady flow of business through the booth. The Trimaris Royals came through with retinue. Finally got to see our esteemed cousin, Sir Severin today. He was part of the retinue contingent. Always good to see him. Made a quick run to Ash and Griffin Pottery to pickup a tankard for Ellen. Quality product, we do recommend. The good Earl and I picked up sundries and ate in camp again. Was easy and filling. Heard an out of context announcement of ‘Hey, you dropped an ear’ as we were about. We both started laughing. Silly elves. I came to the realization that large fighting households are a product of large war events. That’s probably why Meridies doesn’t really have any big fighting households anymore. We don’t have any big in kingdom wars to build from. It’s also probably why we mostly fight as kingdom army when we attend Gulf Wars. I feel the Trimaris people are adopting me as one of their own. I am sure it is mostly from being in the good Earls aura and wake. It is cool to be seen and known by people outside of my normal circle. We had a large group crash our quiet space this evening. Lots of friends, new and old. Stories of travels and feats of daring and intrigue were regaled over drink in the torchlight. A very nice close to the evening.

Pennsic LI,Day 8 - Good weather today. Sales were brisk. The highlight of today was the elevation of our friend, Sir Marek, to the Order of the Pelican in the evening. The good Earl was acting as a worthy for the Chivalry. I was just along for the show. He wrote down and practiced his lines a good part of the afternoon. We discussed the concept of ‘worthies’ later in the evening. Unsure when the practice started, and opinions vary, for a person to stand before the court during an elevation ceremony and provide a testimony of worthiness. The current common practice is for all the peerages including royals and sometimes populace representatives to stand and provide commentary toward the vigilant’s worthiness. There were beautiful cloud formations at sunset that I got some snaps of while waiting for the ceremony to start. I sat, for the first time ever, in a vigil counsel with Marek after Benen urged me to follow and attend. I’ve never felt I had anything to say to a person on vigil. Guess it’s something I need to learn now. So, I sat with Marek and Benen and listened to the advice Benen gave to Marek. When I asked, I offered something simple and what I thought was sound guidance. Wasn’t too hard and was a bit easier with the familiarity shared between us. Marek’s situation is similar to mine. He was an ‘at large’ candidate like me. Of course he is a knight and this is his second peerage, but I saw several things done for his vigil and ceremony that are in line with stuff I have been thinking of doing. I took mental notes. He had some nice souvenir tokens of his heraldry made by a potter. I also think there should be something to mark the occasion for me and those that visit me. His vigil was informal and in an open space. I liked that. The Aethelmarc ceremony was similar to what I have seen in Meridies. Many peers spoke. Regalia bestowed. Oath given. Scroll. Hugs. The Earl and I chatted about it afterward. Many good ideas and things to consider. I’ll sleep on it. Good night all.

 

Pennsic LI, Day 9 - Today was a wash. Started raining and wouldn’t stop. Did run into a couple of former Easaraigh people today, Mary and Otto. I saw Mary last year but haven’t seen Otto in ages. Hit another bingo today with a goat girl, horns and all. We also had a bunch of elves today. Must have been the rain. The rain has cooled us off quite a bit, which is nice. But other than that. Just a soggy day with not much to write about.

Pennsic LI, Day 10 - Today culminated in midnight madness. A night where all the merchants stay open late and the entire camp comes out to shop and socialize. Bingo today added a wizard and fairies to the mix. We got a small resupply of shirts and by the end of the night, the shelves were empty. Outside of the shopping and selling, the socializing is the best. Duchess Rebecca helped us tonight along with Sir Tristam. Got to visit with many good people passing through the booth. After it was over, retiring behind the tent to have the ritualized cool down and relaxation with Marek and the good Earl having philosophical discussions about all kinds of stuff or talking movies and such. Good times. Was a crazy day around here with all the rain yesterday. People were out in full force all day. It was a good day.

Pennsic LI, Day 11 - Vanilla day. Today was cake. The shelves were mostly bare of Pennsic swag. Traffic was light. While humid, the temp was good. We consolidated some merch and took down some empty fixtures. Last night, a new game was created called ‘Punch Basket’. It is along the lines of Punch Buggy, but the focus is on people wearing the handy wicker baskets on there backs and the color of tunic the have on (i.e. Punch Basket Green!). This plays out with an arm punch. I introduced this to Sir Tristan. Shortly there after ‘the champion of rules’ Ser Marek introduced the ‘no unanswered blow’ knight rule. This makes the game a little tricky to play with a knight, but still fun. Also yesterday, I realized that Sir Severin and I have a common theme in titles of no import. That is to say, a title that has no bearing in rank or progress but is important to the holder. It becomes an identity of sorts. I am ‘The Warden of the Northern Plateau’. He is ‘The Champion of the Rose’ and a few other things. It’s a weird commonality we share that is interesting and fun. I took Ellen on a video tour of part of the merchant area today. It’s a neat thing we can do but have to be careful as it can overheat a phone and drain battery. But, was fun and allowed her to share a little more of Pennsic with me. We had a decent Caesar salad from The Royal Court eatery. Had a really good Cuban sandwich from there yesterday. They are a good choice in the over priced food services here. The quality was good and the quantity matched. Tomorrow is the final countdown to teardown and the journey back to the Plateau. We have one Pennsic hoodie left to sell in order to have a grand slam. Selling it tomorrow would put a cherry on top of this sundae. Good night all.

Pennsic LI, Day 12 - The day started with some light rain. But, the rain broke leaving a nice late summer day. Ser Marek, Sybilla and Chris came to help and see us off. The silver steed was hitched to the wagon and loaded. The echos of what once was a thriving booth on the corner of Broadway and Woad Way is gone. Its shelves empty and war cries diminished, Pennsic is over. We ride into the sunset with the knowledge that the masses have been clothed, friendships have been rekindled, and peace reigns again. This was a good trip. I did nothing more that don my alter ego of the humble shop keepers assistant. But it was a good time, as it always is traveling with the good Earl. Safe journey friends. See you when I see you.

Pennsic LI, The end - the good Earl safe in his keep, wagon unloaded. I, at my hearth, in my comfy chair, hounds at my feet, find rest and respite from the northern lands. The journey concluded. The cool air and bright skies of the Cumbrian Plateau once again embraces and welcomes us with tranquil, rolling hills. Home.

Well met friends. Safe journey to thee!

Baron Eoin Mac Cana called 'Clyde'

Squire to Earl Benen MacTire

Warden of the Northern Plateau
Shire of Easaraigh
Kingdom of Meridies

Clyde's Travels - The Unexpected Writ

On a plateau, up in the north of Meridies, there was this guy. He was the quiet sort of guy who goes about his business in the unseen, subtle way that quiet folks do. He enjoyed the way of the almost shadowy service he provided. Lending a hand here, doing a thing there, trying to be helpful when the need arose and seeing opportunity to be useful in his own way. 

Then, suddenly, without so much as a sound, a flock of Pelicans pounced on him, brandishing a Writ to join their order! One moment, he's just doing his thing. Next moment, he's freaked out and dumbfounded. Shocked I tell you. Shocked! 

Pelicans are vicious, merciless fowl, I tell you. Picking on innocent guys just minding their own business.

That's pretty much how it happened.

I've been at a loss since Their Majesties sprung the trap on me, in court, at the event I was stewarding nonetheless. Shameless, I tell you. Me, just trying to get through my court business, handing out gifts to our champions and making announcements and such. To be set upon by the Order of the Pelican, it's… well, it's… 

 Video credit to Mistress Flannait inghean ui h'Eighnigh (MKA Tani Mough).

…an extremely humbling honor that I had never expected to happen to me. 

Truly. Never in a million years.

But, here we are. How did I get here? Not sure. 

Is this some sort of life time achievement thing? Am I destined to be retired from the hobby soon, no longer fit enough to play. "Need to make room for the draft picks, Eoin. You understand?"

Did all that stuff, the service here and there I have done over the years, accumulate to a level in my service meter that set off an alarm and flashing red light somewhere at the Pelican HQ?

Is this a territory thing? Have they laid claim on me? And now, I am forever bound to do only their bidding like some sort of Frankenstein's Monster.

Are the Pelican's going militant and needing soldiers for the new military 'wing' of their order. Hehe…'Wing'… Ha!

Well…

I don't know. 

All I can say, is those noble birds saw something in me of worth. I never sought their attention. I'm a squire!. A stick jock! I fight. 

But, I guess I am more than that. If anything, they have said that loudly, in no uncertain terms. I will always question my worth when praise is directed at me. That keeps me honest with myself, IMHO.

These wise peers of service have said I need to be one of them. I can accept that. I take that its recognition earned through demonstration of service over time. If they say I am worthy, that is enough for me. I am truly, truly thankful for all of those who saw me as worthy of this accolade.

I will question it. I will doubt. That’s the check and balance to the equation. That's my way of staying true.

But, in the end it isn't some sort of pass/fail achievement exam that got me here. It's a body of work, of service, that they noticed and recognized. I can appreciate that even if I don't necessarily understand how I got here. This isn't ego talking. It's just the acceptance that the order knows what it is doing in asking me to join them.

All kidding aside. This is amazing to me. I have no idea how this works or what to do next. Got some good folks around me though. With a little help from my friends, Ill get my feet under me and figure this out. 

Now for the next part, planning for the delivery of the promise in the Writ. Elevation. That is going to be a new adventure. Stay tuned.

Well met friends. Safe journey to thee!

Baron Eoin Mac Cana called 'Clyde'

Squire to Earl Benen MacTire

Warden of the Northern Plateau
Shire of Easaraigh
Kingdom of Meridies

Wardens Challenge: Episode VI, The Return of the Warden… An Epilogue

Unto the good people of Meridies and the hearty souls of the Northern Plateau, do I, Baron Eoin Mac Cana, Warden, send good tidings and warmest greetings.

Back in January, when our shire, Easaraigh, began discussions and planning for our event this season, I volunteered to steward the activity as we shifted its occurrence on the calendar to the month of June. Having spent the last two seasons at the Pennsic War, in support of my Earl, Benen Mactire, I had not been able to attend my shire's event due it occurring during the Pennsic campaign. This season, I sought to remedy this shortfall. This would be the sixth occurrence of Wardens Challenge that my home group, Easaraigh, had hosted since the Wardens Challenge inception, shortly after I was presented the title of 'Warden of the Northern Plateau' by the illustrious Imperator Barthelemy. My home group honors me by sharing the title I was presented in the name of the event. At this point, I feel the idea of the Warden belongs to Easaraigh more so than me, as bearer of the title.

This sixth occurrence of the event, happened to align with the sixth movie of the Star Wars franchise (in story order, not so much in release) in that we had chosen 'Return of the Warden' as the theme. From that point, we decided the lean into 'borrowing' from the Star Wars marketing look and feel for our own advertising. I really enjoyed both the subtle and blatant references that came to fore. That blending of whimsical anachronism in our medievally inspired hobby is a joy of mine, I confess. It keeps us honest and true to the foundation of this hobby that, at times, can be too serious. I am entirely pleased with the product we created.

Artist credit Ronan of Axebridge MKA Brett Tadlock

Our event, Wardens Challenge, Episode VI: Return of the Warden, held true to our base principles here in Easariagh. Like the fabled tale of Goldie Locks, we like our events to be 'just right'. To that end, we shone bright yesterday at the fairgrounds in Sparta.

As steward, my shire and the attendees made the event happen in the magical way things do sometimes. For my part, I was just a witness to a smooth running clock that chimed on schedule without a need for winding. Ceri and Maria greeted our guests as the arrived. Ellen and I welcomed and thanked them for coming. Our many volunteer teachers shared knowledge to willing students. Our martials (Sean, Benen, Asa, Mongo, Arianne) held many competitions of skill and daring. At lunch, we broke for sustenance and our stewards (Ronan and Elysant) and staff (Hallgrimr, Yrsa, and the 2 Lairds Hallgrimsson) delivered a bounty of victuals that filled the stomach and pleased the senses. Very many hands made light work for this steward. You are all appreciated.

We topped our day off with a royal court, the likes of which has not been seen on this part of the Northern Plateau in recent memory. We are so happy to have been able to share our day with Their Royal Majesties, Sebastianos and Morgan; with His Highness, Barthelemy, and the baronages to our east and west; Their Excellencies Ysabel and Jean-Azriel of Glaedenfeld and Bjorn of Thor's Mountain. The rarity of so many renowned leaders visiting our small shire was a sight to behold and we were so pleased to be able to host them.

To all who came to visit our shire of Easariagh, in the land of the Cumbrians, on a warm day in the month of June… I offer my humblest thanks. We, of Easaraigh, thank you all for coming. We do this not just for ourselves, but for you and our hobby. Thank you.

Your servant in humility,

Baron Eoin Mac Cana
Warden of the Northern Plateau
Steward, Warden's Challenge VI