Yesterday, I was, once again, left dumbfounded. Surprise, shock, and the full gambit of emotions were unleashed upon me. Words fail. I am still trying to rectify what was done.
One year ago today, I was inducted into the Order of the Pelican. I had thought that today, on my anniversary, I would be writing about that elevation and its effect on my hobby life. But instead of a decertation of then vs now and my SCA as a Pelican, my 'now' has been altered further.
Yesterday, I attended Fall Crown List here in Meridies. It was nearby. I was able to spend the day watching the tournament and hanging out with my friends. Ellen and I were both able to attend. At court that evening, I was looking forward to several of our newer people getting their first or second awards. So, I sat to the side with Ellen. I had my video camera running to record court to capture the moment for them. Ellen was taking pictures. As the Khan and Khatun of our Kingdom progressed into court, I noted an anomaly.
My knight, Earl Benen MacTire, was carrying the sword of state into court and took residence behind the thrones. This was strange to me on the subconscious, but not registered until later after events transpired. It is the first time, that I can recall, that I saw him act in the retainers role. But, as I said, I registered it, but I did not really give it much thought.
Court progressed much as I had expected. Shire members got the expected awards. Ellen was caught off guard when she was called up and inducted into the Company of Meridian Scribes. Then, my name was called.
My first thought was that it was for some recognition of service to the crown. A formal thank you, if you will. But then things took a turn when His Majesty asked the Good Earl to the fore. From that point, I have little recognition of what happened next. But I heard the word 'CHIVALRY' spoken.
Tears welled in my eyes. I looked at the ground to regain my composure. I think I nodded consent to His Majesty as he asked me a question. The people were cheering and clapping as I was helped to stand. And there they all were…
The Order of Chivalry. Faces of peers that I have known for many years, some for my entire SCA life. People I respect. People I trust. Knights all. And now, they have asked me to be one of them.
I was asked to join the Order of Chivalry.
I first picked up a rattan stick in 1987. Lord Padraig Brun and others helped teach me how to fight in SCA Armored Combat. I was glad that he was at the event to witness the announcement. Later, I met the man who would be my first knight, Hadi al Hadad. He taught me much. I would go on to see him achieve knighthood and win a crown list on the same day. We shared many adventures before his passing in 2015. That year, I met the man who would pick me up and help me find the squire's path again, Earl Benen MacTire. In 2017, I joined his house. He is my friend and peer in equal parts. On the 8th day of November 2025, he brought me to the next part of our journey with the Orders request for me to join them. My quest to knighthood, some 38 years in the making, is almost achieved.
There are many, many strong emotions tied to this accomplishment. Not to diminish my acceptance to the Order of the Pelican, which was a very, very proud moment in itself, this writ for Chivalry has a depth of attachment for me like no other to date. This is the thing I sought to achieve. This is the thing that I felt I failed on for Count Hadi and his passing caused me to rededicate myself to. This is the thing that Earl Benen and I worked on together. The thing that he helped accomplish. This goal, with the unrivaled support by my wife, Ellen, is now true. This honor, with the help of so many people in addition to those named, is what I have worked for.
So if you congratulated me yesterday, or today or do so tomorrow and I responded with a quiet nod and 'Thank You', know that I just don't have the words to voice much more than that without shedding a tear of joy and just breaking down into an emotional mess.
Thank you, everyone, for helping me get here. More to come.
Thank you.
Well met friends. Safe journey to thee!
Meistr Eoin Mac Cana called 'Clyde'
Warden of the Northern Plateau
Squire to Earl Benen MacTire
Shire of Easaraigh
Kingdom of Meridies
