Clyde's Travels - Pennsic L (That L means 50.)

Cooper's Lake Event Venue and Campground

205 Currie Rd, Slippery Rock, PA 16057

1-12 Aug 2023

The following dialogue is from my journal posts on the Book of Faces during my trip to Pennsic in Augusts for the 50 year event there. These posts were made daily from my tent at Cooper's Lake. Ive added them here in a consolidated format for the historical record of my travels. All photos are from my library, taken by me.

Pennsic L - day 1 - My liege and I made our way north from our Cumbrian home of Easaraigh to the lands of Aethelmearc for the annual Pennsic War today. The trip was pleasant. The good Earl was determined to not have any close calls on fuel for the horses, so stops were frequent. The weather this year is mild and almost cool with low humidity so far. A boon to say the least. We did encounter some gremlins in Columbus when cool air stopped blowing from the trucks AC for a bit. Benen thinks the town hates him and blames it for any number of maladies. A tried and true ‘Turn it off and on again’ was the solution and cool air was flowing without much fuss. This is the fiftieth Pennsic War this year. Looks to be a big turnout. Well over 7,000 through the gate already. There is a big 50, painted on the hill above the fort. Not the Roman numeral ‘L’. An ‘L’ would have better. The 50 reminds me of one of those ‘over the hill’ birthday parties with black balloons and such. Anyway. There’s a rant there about causation and the failure of public education to properly train classics like ‘Roman Numerals’ that worked fine for hundreds of years before anyone even thought about the numbers five and zero being used as an alternative. But, I digress. We were able to get tents up and partially unpacked before stopping for the eve. We are in the usual spot. Next to the roar Sauron’s anus and the Ice Cream shop. Both of us being tired but sated after dinner, we closed the day we casual banter behind the tents in the cool night air. We’ll finish setup tomorrow. Rest will come easy tonight.

Pennsic L - Day 2 - This morning started with an entertaining episode of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom out here behind the booth as our guest host, Earl Benen, demonstrated his ability to coax and corrupt innocent robins to hanging out with him for breakfast. Mama robin had to work up extra courage to feed young robin, who we will call ‘L’. I spent the rest of the day watching my steps as young ‘L’ kept popping out giving me the ‘What’s Up?’ look. ‘L’ eventually found his way to safety away from underfoot so we could get to our business at hand. Was a long work day putting fixtures together and unpacking for open tomorrow.  Booth looks presentable now and has been upgraded with ‘high beams’ lighting now. It will be ‘sunglasses at night’ cool this year without a doubt. Tomorrow is opening day. First pitch at 10am and the fun begins. The day closed out with a small group of friends behind the tent telling tales of sharks, Salties, Alligator ‘not’ hunting, bear like dogs, Jurassic chickens, and giant Australian cats giving dogs the ‘Rodeo’ treatment. Good times.

Pennsic L - Day 3 - Today was a busy day in the booth at the corner of Woad and Broad. We opened today to a line of folks waiting on us and from that point there was a steady flow all day. Benen and I figured we had two or three moments where Benny Hill music played while we spun plates for the amusement of the throng. We were successful in the endeavor though and stuff was sold and people were happy. It warranted a juice box and cookie for the good boys running the booth that afternoon. While it may not be common knowledge this is a union shop and while loitering may be frowned upon in some places, it’s a sure way to get put to work in this shop. Saw some interesting signs today that brings home the idea that for every sign there is a reason (‘Do not put order sticks in any part of your body’ raises questions and laughter equally). Nice quiet evening tonight chatting behind the tent. Oh, and for those of you who don’t know, cinnamon roasted cashews and pecans are pretty fricken awesome.

Pennsic L - Day 4 - today was a fairly simple day of just working. We had a brief rain shower that to the bite out of a warm ish day. I folded and help push our meager wares to any who were caught in the web of beautiful art and Latin wit shown in the booth. I met many interesting folks and even came across a former member of the shire formerly known as Ezaret. I was given two ‘strikes’ today from a good knight visiting Benen today. I’m not sure what the strikes were so not sure what a third offense might be. Should be and entertaining surprise if it ever happens. We sat for dinner and chatted up new SCAdian gentleman from Trimaris at his first Pennsic. Young enthusiasm is always cool. Had an idea today for a game using the Renarts Latin phase shirts and people that would be like a version of Cards Against Humanity. Seems like a fun idea. Good evening folks.

Pennsic L - Day 5 - Today and served a shift as retainer for TRM this morning. Not much going on, but was able to help setup a pavilion on the melee field. Was a sunny and warm day. Back home, my local group, Shire of Easaraigh, held an event with ‘me’ as a contributing theme. Looks like everyone had fun. Played more bingo today with a KISS rapier fighter and several elves being spotted. Booth was fairly busy again. Closed the day with more behind the tent philosophy and star gazing. Been a long and good day.

Pennsic L - Day 6 - Stuck to the booth today.  Some folks are curious about what I’m doing. I’m helping Earl Benen operate the Renaissance Arts & Design booth here at Pennsic. He and Countess Rosabelle create some of the best and most awesome art for shirts in the free world. I go along to help make the booth run and provide some peace of mind for them. It’s a cool deal. I get to go to Pennsic, hang out with my peer, and meet all the cool folks that come through the booth. It’s a lot of hard work but made easy by good company. Had a short bit of rain this afternoon that made things muggy this evening. Sticky. Ew. Closing the day out behind the tent. Staring at stars. Good night folks. And remember… Whippet. Whippet. Good.

Pennsic L - Day 7 - Didn’t fight today.  Should have.  Totally failing to understand the weather here. What I thought was going to be a completely wet and soggy start to the day, wasn’t. By the time I realized that I was wrong, it was too late. Did manage to get some shopping done today. Merchant area was really busy. Over 11,000 on site now. Things are hopping. Lots of traffic in the booth today. Had dinner with House Stahlgeist tonight. Nice group of people and food was good. Sir Tristan sold a souvenir Pennsic 50 rock today as part of a brilliant marketing strategy. We now have a pile of rocks ready for production. Rain settled in later in the day. Site is damp, but the night air has that post rain coolness about it. Nice and comfortable. Lots of happy people can be heard throughout the camp.

Pennsic L - Day 8 - worked the booth and did some shopping today. Got some nice linen for something later. We figured out that once the event population went over 11k, the shortest line at the ice cream shop was between 6:15 and 6:45. I was able to deduce today that the anomaly of the shirtless utilikilt barbarian that doesn’t find a T-shirt in the booth they like probably needs to attend a Shirtless Anonymous meeting and get into a 10 step program. We have been thinking about a telethon or a maybe a community outreach program for the shirtless. New bingo today, after judges review, was a pirate in double thick crocs (akin to the shoes from Bill and Teds future). Weather was awesome today. Tomorrow, the madness comes. Cave Canem, Ya’ll.

Pennsic L - Day 9 - long day today culminating in the Midnight Madness event where all the merchants stay open late and everyone at Pennsic comes out to ‘crawl’ the merchant booths. Extra staff comes aboard to help and away we go. At the end of the night, many of our shelves are empty and we tired, happy few retire to our cots worn and weary. As a participant, it can be magical with music and laughter everywhere in the lit up thoroughfares of the merchant quarter. As a merchant, it is a rapid fire assault on you and your team trying to answer, respond, and fulfill every customers need. Overall it is fun, just taxing. Going to sleep hard tonight.

Pennsic L - Day 10 - Today I finally got on the field to fight. It was the field battle today. After dressing out, I got to follow behind the ladies in white to the field. It’s a long tradition that I don’t know much about. So, I won’t try to explain it. There is singing and horn blowing. It’s all very cool and a fun experience. I fought in five engagements. My takeaway is that one field melee is pretty much like the rest. There were a considerable amount of fighters participating (2000 rough estimate). That was the only real difference.  Went to Meridies court. Came away with a couple of small bits of flair related to military service (1 for fighting with the kingdom and 1 for being an Army veteran mundanely). The day was finished with a philosophical chat behind the tent with a nice visiting knight, Benen and I. It was a good day. Tomorrow brings packing day and preparation for the trip home. There’s a gentle rain in the tent tonight. Should be some good sleep here shortly.

Pennsic L - Day 11 - departing is such sweet sorrow. Some last views of site on my way out. The mark of my temporary residence, soon to be erased as the sun shines on it again. My last vision of the site as we head down the road. Today was a steady day followed by the rapid load out queued by all the extra hands that came to help. We sold millions of t-shirts. Well, not millions but many, many wonderfully colorful and comfy shirts of exceptional quality. We sold handmade leather pouches and bags of incomparable quality and price. And, when all else failed, we sold genuine Pennsic 50 rocks. Everything we could sell was sold. The trailer was much lighter on the way out. Tonight we rest in a hotel to recoup a bit before completing the journey to our Cumbrian home. This year I heard many wise words. I saw many, many strange and bingo-worthy people. I had fun. Can't ask for much more than that.

Pennsic L - The Epilogue - The fiftieth year of the Pennsic War was a big and festive event. My small part in the venture was marked in my memory as a period of comfort and comradery. In my role as sidekick and travelling companion to the incomparable Earl Benen - merchant, peer, oracle of knowledge - I got to hang out and just be relaxed. Pennsic 'L' was not without controversy. We had the site token outrage and the 'L' vs '50' stupefaction. But this was just smoke and bad theatre. I have many fun memories. I witnessed a peer cosplay Snow White (sans dwarves, apples or crones). We put forth a cookie and juice box worthy effort from Day 1. There was a nod of satisfaction. I dined with the great Stahlgiest house. I found that the differences between blue and purple is shady. I experienced practical queueing theory via the ice cream stand as population increased as the event drove on. 11,384 SCA and associated fans of Pennsic came to the Slippery Rock encampment to celebrate. I saw true entrepreneurial skill when a lowly rock was elevated to premier Pennsic swag with the application of Sharpie ink and googly eyes. I fought my first melee in the field battle. I saw the dangers and excitement of ~2000 rattan wielding fighters in mass engagement. We filled our bingo cards daily with the strange and unexpected personages that crossed our path. We saw many worthy people and shared philosophical discussion late into the evenings. While many may see Pennsic as a big party, I see it as a quaint social gathering from my view on the corner of Broadway and Woad Way. Yes, it was big. But, like a small town, it can be quaint when you want it to be. What is it's worth? I think I am still figuring that out. For now, Pennsic is a vacation where I work, relax, and share company with very good people. That is plenty for me. 

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 Travel Log - Black Axe: Everybody’s Roman in the Summer

Black Axe: Everybody’s Roman in the Summer

Dalwhinnie Fields
Marion, AL
Hosted by the Barony of Iron Mountain
May 5-7, 2023

The event took place on the warmest day this year (for me, at an event) at Dalwhinnie Fields in Marion, AL on the fifth through seventh of May, Anno Societatis LVIII, hosted by the Barony of Iron Mountain in lands under their protection. My trip to the locale was uneventful and I made good time southward from the Plateau.

I set camp and settled in for the evening. The temperatures were cool but the humidity was up making it uncomfortable to be under tent canvas or anywhere without good air flow.  There was some initial threat of rain, but the evening turned pleasant and dry. 

After parking my chariot in the designated place, I came upon His Majesty unloading the kingdom pavilion and threw in my assistance. As he was not in his regal element, I saw no offense in allowing him to assist with the effort. If any regalia had adorned his person through, I would have had to put a stop to the nonsense and reported him to the chancellery. Additional help joined in as we went through the paces making the work lessen as the extra hands aided the cause. Pleasant conversation and good humor was shared and before too long we had the top raised, banners hung and furnishings placed for the day to come. Thereafter, I returned to my tent, dressed my part for the event and wandered a bit. 

I eventually found the hall where I sat and ate some traveler's fare, reading Ramon Lull's Book of the Order of Chivalry. I read for about an hour before I rose and found my way to a small gathering at the campfire of Earl Lochlainn and Countess Paraskova. I joined the group, listening to stories and catching up with friends in attendance before I began to feel weary and retired to my tent to sleep.

The following morning I awoke, before the local rooster and greeted the day. One of the unique things about Dalwhinnie is the cacophony of nature that greets each day. Nature's creatures are boisterous and loudly announce the rise of the Sun with gusto. I found no need for alarm or any mechanism  to remind be that dawn was imminent. The residents of the wilderness surrounding Dalwhinnie announce the day like a marching band in a parade. 

I broke fast then donned kit way earlier than I needed to. I found myself alone on the field waiting for others to arrive. But, that was OK I think. Maybe my preparedness spurred some others to get going. Before too long, the field was surrounded by citizens from all over the realm. The day was pleasant, but the sun was a little harsh. Thankfully, shade was in abundance as long as you were willing to follow its trip over the grounds. I think there were ~30 armored fighters in attendance as well as many rapier fighters and several people on the live weapons range. Of the armored, the skill levels varied from new to very good. It was a very good mix of people.

I had a few warmups before the tournaments. This is a new part of my preparation regimen for tournaments. I feel like I do better if I warm up some first. Around 5 passes seems to be enough. It doesn’t need to be at full speed either. Just need to get moving through motions and blocks. I did more than 5 passes, not sure how many. But, enough to feel good about being ready for the list but not stressed or tired.

I fought two tournaments.

The first was the Black Axe tournament. It was a standard double elimination. I did quite well. My two losses were to Sir Haldr and Duke Timothy. I think I won 4 and lost 2 out of 27 or so fighters. Not sure of the exact count in the list. Duke Timothy won the tournament.

The second tournament was the 9 Lives Tournament, a William Marshal tournament, benefiting a cat shelter. I paid for several tokens and fought many fights. While I am deathly allergic to cats, I find the idea of paying others to keep and maintain them to be a nice compromise for the cute critters. The run time was an hour, possibly longer. I recall taking one break. I think I fought most of those on the field that were there in armor minus a few. Earl Lochlainn won this tournament. I don't remember any significance on my part other than I was able to use a flutter-kick defense on Sir Aidan. Had us both laughing. 

I had a lot of fun all day. I fought more people than I can remember the names of. Duke Timothy stated every time he looked I was either knocking someone down or was getting knocked down myself. Not sure how accurate that is, but it did happen some. 

I was trying recall some of my fights and what happened in them, but I don't track the action in my mind in a way that I can recall the play-by-play. I can recall snapshots of a helmet or a chest with the arm raised or a leg. I see these openings in my mind now and remember throwing a shot at the opportunity. It's weird, but is how it works for me. I hear the lay on. I feel the joy of a slight adrenal rush. The action happens. I stop when there is a 'hold' or 'good' is called. I stop when I feel a quality or questionable hit on my person that requires acknowledgment. 

I packed out my kit back to my tent and commenced recovery. I did manage to keep fluids going all day but I was still behind the curve a bit after the lists were completed. Sitting there, I ate some food and continued to hydrate. It did not get extremely warm, but with the humidity being on the higher end, the combination sapped the energy of the fighters in attendance so that none of us had the urge for pick-up fights at the end of the day.

I sat court. Many worthy Meridians were recognized. The ceremony was relatively short. Once done, the populace jumped in to tear down the pavilion and furnishings as it would not be needed for anything else that afternoon.

Feast began shortly thereafter. It was a Roman style meal. Some of it was good to me and some not so much. My western tolerances did not find some seasonings to my liking. But, there was plenty of what I did like. I had good company talking with Baroness Katheryn and others at our table. During feast, His Majesty gifted the coin of his reign to me and several others for services rendered during the event. He is a generous King.

With all of the fighting I have been doing of late, I have had a bit of 'guilt' for my lack of service to my hobby and my kingdom. Don't get me wrong, it's just a minor perception issue in my head, nothing more. I serve my shire as Knight Marshal. I serve my kingdom as a deputy of the seneschalate, a web serf and as a Praetorian of the Legio Ursi. It’s the small services that I feel I have been missing from my service diet (for lack of a better explanation). So, I was happy that I was able to find some small things to help with and contribute at Black Axe. Small services take little time from your routine. It only takes an ability recognize the opportunity and act on it. In the act, we help the circus that is our SCA hobby succeed. The SCA was built on 'pay if forward' way before the concept was put into a movie and became trendy. That idea is one of the best things this hobby has going for it and probably why I like it so much.

Sated by the plentiful food and drink, I removed myself from the feast table and joined others in the kitchen to help with cleanup. I was reminded of older times with squires standing to at sinks and on guard with brooms and mops. We would invade the feastcrat's domain, taking over their realm with joyful exuberance, sharing stories of the day and telling tales at each other's expense as we put order to the chaos of a feast's aftermath. I see the faces and hear the voices of people that I share my SCA with, now and in the past, and smiled. It was enjoyable to partake in that experience with fellow SCAdians in the kitchen at Dalwhinnie. Good times were had and we left the kitchen in good order. 

I grabbed a chair and found a place by the fire of Xenos and Etain, listening to conversations as stars shown in the sky and a meteor burned its way across the atmosphere under a full moon. To the sound of a drum and voices of comradery, I felt my tiredness overcome me after a while and I bid the fellowship good night. 

The roar of the Dalwhinnie denizens awoke me the following morning. Bright and early with a cool morning dawning, I tore down my camp and hit the road north to my home on the Plateau of Cumbria and the Shire of Easaraigh.

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 Travel Log - Dreamstone 2023

Dreamstone 2023
Barony of Bryn Madoc
Camp Daniel Morgan
Hard Labor Creek State Park
Rutledge, GA
23 April 2023

In the afternoon of the 22nd day of April, Anno Societatis LVII, I hopped on my mount and turned it's nose southward. The journey took me off the Cumbrian Plateau, through the gap at Vulpine Reach and into the fertile lands of the Barony of Bryn Madoc for the event, Dreamstone. Late in the evening, I found lodging at a nearby waystation before completing my journey early the next morn. There was  rain shower as the dawn broke, but the showers dissipated shortly after breakfast. 

The trip from the waystation to the camp was short and I found setup well underway with many attendees in the effort of claiming space for day shades near the eric. The field was shared with rapier and armored combatants. Attendance was high with many notable and infamous personages. Once again, my focus was on armored combat and that is where I spent my day.

I received many complements on my new shield, which 100% of should be directed to my wife Ellen. Again, she dresses me well and I am grateful for her efforts.

The armored combat day started with a bridesmaid tourney for combatants that have never won a tournament. Having won a tournament of the same type many years ago, I did not participate. I think there were 6 participants. The format was round robin. The contest was won by Vilhjalmr Skogr.

The next contest, after some delay, was the Dreamstone tournament. The late start was due to waiting for the completion of the rapier captain's tournament. The armored and rapier Dreamstone tournaments ran concurrently. The format was a standard double elimination. In the first round, I drew Duke John of Ean Airgead (the Mad Celt). He is a formidable opponent and it was the first time that I can recall having ever shared the field with him (as an opponent). I do not remember a lot of detail of the fight, such as is my failing, but I do remember a nice clean hit to the top of my helmet. For a man that is at least a foot shorter than me, it was a excellent shot and happily accepted on my part. My next round was against a gentlemen that I think was called 'Roman'. The fight was not my best and I lost the round. The Dreamstone (armored) tournament was won by Duke Timothy of Long Bennington.

I made mistakes in the second round fight. The first was pausing my fight and making assumptions about shots I thought I landed. The pause left my defenses down. The fight should not stop until there is firm acknowledgment or a hold is called. If I had question, I should have called hold. That is on me. My second mistake was failing to change my strategy. I allowed the fight to be reset after some uncertainty and proceeded to carry the same fight to my opponent in the second pass. Failing to adapt, I fell into the trap of my own making and took a good blow losing the second pass. I was out of the tournament. The fault is my own. Lesson learned.

My next tournament was a great weapons tournament. Mostly a novelty for me. I haven't used my glaive in many years. It showed. It was single elimination and I was out in 1. The tournament was won by Thorhall Wulfstanson.

The last tournament of the day was in the format of the Diamond Tournament from Gulf Wars. I was paired with a rapier fighter, Giovanni (if I recall correctly). Together we had to win both our fights to advance. If one wins and the other loses, a second pass occurs where the first hit, on either field, advances the pair. In this round, we drew the Ducal pair of Duke Wulfstan (armored) and Duchess Thorkatla (Rapier). I gave Duke Wulfstan a good effort, but he won the first pass. Giovanni carried me to a sudden death round where I once again lost to His Grace. The tournament was single elimination, so that was the end of our run. Earl Lochlainn Glen Nodha and William were the tournament champions.

In my passes with Duke Wulfstan, I discovered a blind spot with my new helmet. In my second pass with His Grace, he landed a blow to the lower portion of my faceplate. The blow did not register, but I felt my aventail move. I had to ask for clarification as to what he hit because the aventail movement was not demonstrative of a telling blow. Left me slightly confused resulting a late thrust to His Grace well after his blow struck (which he, rightfully, assumed was good). So far, that was the only problem I have had with blow calling in my new helmet. I can live with it.

For pickups, I managed to only get in a couple of people. I had several good passes with Earl Lochlainn. I also squared with Baron Richard na Teanga Mhin, but only one pass. I owe him many more, but we keep missing each other for pickups. That was it.

My review of my fighting day was that I started out flat and came on later in the day. I did not get as much fighting in as I wanted. I will work on that in future events. I think I need to make sure I get some warmup fighting in before tournaments. Around 5 low-impact passes to loosen up should do for a pre tournament warmup. I did that at Iris Faire and it seemed to be 'just right'. I missed out on several quality pickups (it was a target rich environment). That’s on me not making time in an event schedule that had downtime built in.

I attended the Bryn Madoc court at the end of the day. The affair was loaded with whimsy and good humor. Many gentles were recognized to the joy of those in attendance. 

After court, I repacked my gear and mounted my steed for the journey northward in the dusk of the day. The trip was uneventful. The only excitement was when I stopped for a respite and had to fight a rabid marmot (Buccee's) on the side of the highway. I found my home where I left it in good order and greeted by our hounds as I arrived. It was a splendid trip and day in the sunshine with the people of Bryn Madoc. I look forward to visits in the future.

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 Travel Log - Iris Faire 2023

Iris Faire 2023
Barony of Glaedenfeld
Montgomery Bell State Park
Burns, TN
15 Apr 2023

Early on the 15th day of April, Anno Societatis LVII, Marek Arturson made the trek down from the Cumbrian lands of our shire home to visit the Barony of Glaedenfeld for their annual Iris Faire event. The Faire is becoming and traditional welcoming of spring in the lowlands to our west, and was true to form with an nice, warm spring day and excellent weather.

Marek was returning to 'home' of the SCA adventure after some idle time away from the hobby and I was happy to have his companionship for the journey. He and I have travelled together many times of the years. You cannot ask for a better travelling partner.

As has been my want of the recent times, I spent my day in armor, on the field in the armored combat activities hosted during the event. The Iris Faire tournament (for armored combat) had 29 combatants in attendance this year. It was a large list that drew representatives from the Kingdoms of the Middle and Gleann Abhann. The competition was top class and the best of challenges for all who participated.

The list started as a double-elimination, best two out of three, for the first two rounds before list administrators changed the bouts to single passes due to how long the list was pushing into the afternoon. The final was a standard best 2 our ot three with a clean slate for both finalists.

I had a lot of fun. I made it through 4 rounds before my day on the field concluded. My losses were to Earl Lochlainn and Viscount Valeric. Both men are the best of opponents and an absolute blast to cross swords with. Earl Randver defeated Sir Haldr for tournament champion. My sincere congratulations and thanks to everyone that participated throughout the well fought and well called list.

I was reminded later in the list that 'fun' is really the key to this game. The joy you carry on the field is infectious. I was happy that my fun made the day better for those I shared the day with and that just made it better for me (yay, more joy). The lesson here is something that I attribute to wisdom shared by Sir Mandin a while back that really stuck with me.  The first bit was 'Don't be a D$ck.' Hard to forget. Easy to comply with. The next bit was, 'When you fight, smile. Enjoy the experience.' Yes, I am parapharsing some of that. Not the first part, but I am sure on the second bit. The reward I get from that wisdom has been an embracing of the armored combat, laughing when I am in kit, and sometimes spreading that happiness to others in kit who might be having a bad or off day. It is simple. It is easy. And totally worth the effort.

While I make fun a priority, that does not imply that I like losing. I just don’t give a loss much weight in the grand scheme of things. Winning is not about victory as much as it is success. A win is demonstrative and proof of concept that I am improving and that all that 'stuff' that mentors and peers freely offer to me as advice along with my own individual efforts at improving is actually making some impact in my progression. It means that the game is starting to click for me. A win means that my goals of offering every opponent a challenge when I engage is being achieved.  I don’t need to beat you to win in my mind. I win if I fight, I have fun, and I made the engagement fun for my opponent in the process. 

That’s just me and how I approach things right now. Its evolved a lot over time. I am extremely content with this philosophy and how it shows in my interactions on the field of combat.

I revealed some major kit updates at Iris Faire. The first was my new helmet at it's first tournament. Still have a couple of adjustments to make, but it is really nice to fight in. I am loving it. 

The second reveal was a new heraldic device I have submitted that was painted on a new shield for me (with some awesome artistic flair) by my wife, Ellen. Had some people doing a double-take wondering who I was. The shield art was getting a ton of good commentary. My wife also sewed up my new fighting tunic. She dressed me up really well. It all felt really good to wear and represent (myself and her) in. It is a really good makeover.

Photo Credit Kim Garnett

My original heraldry is from the early ninety's. Submitted shortly after I started getting serious with the hobby. It has served me well. I will keep it. I have also submitted the new heraldry to the College of Heralds along with a joint badge for Ellen and I. The updates are welcome in my mind. I was a little nervous at first with new arms. But, the more I thought about it, I think I am OK. While a device is a form of identification, it is OK to have more than one ID. So, I am sold on it and will embrace have a second heraldic device to identify who I am.

I did not perform much in the way of service at the event. I have some SCAdian guilt, but I know it is OK. I did some marshalling after I was eliminated from the list to help out the MIC, Sir Valdryk. I also did some minor pack-mule work helping Baron Erickr carry thrones for court. Small services matter in the big scheme. I can live with that.

It was a long day in the sun, and the early spring day took its toll on Marek and I. So, we decided to depart the event before the evening feast and revelry in order to get back to our hearth in the Shire while we still had the energy for the trip. While my exposure to the event was limited to the armored combat field and part of court that afteroon, I truly did enjoy my day and the company of those I shared it with.

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
SCA Inc.

Clyde's Travel Log - Gulf Wars XXXI

Gulf Wars XXVIII
Lumberton, MS
11-19 MARCH 2023

It has been a couple of weeks and I have had time to let my mind settle from my annual trek to the Gulf Wars event. Time now to put virtual ink to virtual parchment and shelve the muse's production in the virtual halls of the virtual library for posterity for, most of all, my own recollection and memories of events that transpired, both trivial and thought-provoking. I hope that the five or so readers, including myself, that might see this and that were definitely not waiting for this particular perspective into the event itself find some solace and maybe even some comprehension into the humor, fore-thought and determined effort my toil has wrought. 

In the morning hours of March 11th, A.S. LVII, my lord, Earl Benen and I made our way down from the lands of the Cumbria Plateau to King's Arrow Ranch for Gulf Wars in the Kingdom of Gleann Abhann. The trip was uneventful. The day pleasant. We got to site in the mid afternoon and quickly got in setting up the Renaissance Arts & Design booth of wonders followed by my own meager camp in Fox’s Den. Lots of work to set up one, much less two campsites in disparate ends of the site. The work is tiring, but rewarding, We both find ourselves wrapped in the arms of weariness when it is done. My lord settles in to his tent for rest. I find my way to my own camp, and spend some time with my campmates near a fire, warmed by the flame and comradery found there. The stars are out and bright. A great comfort comes over my being as I retire and find a content sleep.

Rested, the broke fast with the Foxes Den citizenry the following morning. Meeting several new campers, like Lash and Argyle and Wolfram and Esme and Karis and so many more. The Den was full of many wonderful people this year include the Meridian Royalty and visitors from faraway lands.

I spent my day after the morning with Earl Benen helping him prepare his wares for sale and debating what the market would sustain for garments used as makeshift reliquary. What is the markup for such a garment? What would the market handle before counter fitting is commenced by some clever means like by using Tso’s sauce from Delights of Cathay to forge the look and feel of the original substance that marks a garment as a reliquary to begin with. Once the counterfeit product his the market, how does one secure bona fide for the original? Inquiring minds pondered this no satisfactory conclusion. 

I also did some shopping once the booth was established and ready. I procured a one-of-kind mug from Firehorse Pottery for Ellen to steal from me when I get home. It’s the least I could do. Been raining on and off all day, but will be drier tomorrow. Closed the day visiting some folks. Managed to get Fiana’s arrows delivered intact. Pop. Pop. Pop as the rain drums it’s rhythm on the tent canvas. It will be drier tomorrow.

Monday greeted my den-mates and I with a sunny start. I delved into the morning hours by hanging around camp and helped Sir John strap up the tower shield I made for him. He was very happy with it. He was marveling later in the week over how much energy he had and how good his legs felt because of the extra protection afforded by the new shield. 

I took delivery of a new custom helmet I ordered from Christopher Nowland. He did an outstanding job. Thanks Christoff for making my bad sketches into something very cool. This is definitely a helmet I could get hit in. It is my first custom helmet, and my fighting age, probably my last judging purely by the longevity of my previous helmets. Im extremely pleased with it.

Went to my first commanders meeting this year. It was interesting. GW XXXI was the first time I had been asked to serve as part of the command and control for the Meridian forces, for any event, ever. I served as 'line  commander' (or 'shield-wall wrangler' for a more role accurate description of my assignment). I think I did OK with the job but confess that I have much to learn and I am sure I missed a lot. While I am imposing in stature in melee, I do not feel my voice has the tone and pitch for cut through the din of the action. I could be wrong. I have never been much of a 'loud' presence. None the less, I did my best to take care of those in my charge, repeat commands, coordinate reserves, keep my soldiery informed, check on their fatigue, and provide support where needed as timely as possible. Sir Seamus, our general, marked GW XXXI with a small memento for each of his command team. I really appreciated the thought and the opportunity to serve in a new capacity at war. 

Tuesday, after some camp KP, I made my way to Hastings Field in my new spiffy ‘Bear’ tunic Ellen made for the town battle. The heavy linen fabric was really comfortable to fight in and I look forward to adding battle wear to it to give it that authentic medievally look (It's called character, Randy!). 

Ran into my first 'failure' as a Praetorian of the Legio Ursi discovering that none of the order showed up for the procession that morning to carry the order color's. I will do better. I am an Ursi.

The town battle was a fun fight. Even more so as first time in a leader role as line commander. Had fun, shouted a lot, offered words of encouragement,  and tried to look like I knew what I was doing. Basically, just normal sergeant stuff. Reminded me of my army days. Our side, allied with Trimaris, won the day. Lots of smiling on the field. It was a good day in the Sun made better by a dominant show by our army and our allies.

Tournament day (Hump Day!) had me lounging around camp in the morning. We had some good laughs on how to best skirt zip codes in order to takeover neighboring kingdoms and how to best start a grassroots movements to cede and regain lost Meridian principalities. All of these mostly harmless evil plans hatched to make Meridies a principle Kingdom for control of the Gulf Wars event and gain control of the event. Many weeks later and I'm not sure why we were scheming, but we did and someone better watch out. Because. Reasons.

Spent the afternoon hanging with Benen in the Renaissance Arts & Design booth in preparations for midnight madness. Finally got some Gode Bakery awesomeness. It was good, as always. I introduced Benen to ‘Terry Tate, Office Linebacker’ while debated the challenge of opening t-shirt style shopping bags (should be a war point, just saying). Lots of laughs tonight as I helped him peddle his merch. Closed out with a cup of coffee and off to bed.

It was interesting to see that a family of the 'Ice Mafia' has become established at Gulf Wars. It had me wondering of the dynamics at play. Do they have financial obligations to their northern kin at Pennsic? How much control does the Ice mafia really have over the Ice trade in general? Our they susceptible to racketeering charges for operating in different kingdoms?

Thursday at war started off with a 5 am wake-up and boiling water for coffee for camp, cooking breakfast and have good, earnest fun with Argyle in the kitchen helping Stanzi. I was off to muster after and the ravine for melee action.

I had a lot of fun in the 1.5hr res battle in a dust bowl gully. Our side was extremely successful holding our control point for nearly the entire battle. It wasn’t exciting work in the shield wall today but it was honest work. Take an objective and sit on it no matter what happens. Meridies did this well today. I reached a milestone myself of staying in the fight for the entire time without any breaks other than the administrative pauses that occurred through the fight. Had a blast, and so did everyone. A really friendly day fighting in my part of the line.

Friday was marked by a rain delay that started in the early morning through the late afternoon. The end result was a day full of casual socializing with camp mates and other friends throughout the day. It was a good, hard-working, protestant rain all day long. All martial activities were cancelled. While it was a let down to not get to fight, spending quality time with friends without any  scheduled agenda is a very positive result caused by natures need to rain down on the campsite. If I am honest, the scheduled fighting today would have been brutal after yesterday’s ravine fight for me as was still feeling the effects of that contest. I would have fought, if weather would have permitted it, but nowhere near 100%. I don’t think I would have been the only one in that boat.

As is the Foxes Den tradition, we closed the day with the campfire rite of mirthful companionship. It was the last fire of the war and it was good.

Saying goodbyes and hoping everyone gets home safe. Earl Benen and I chatting about all things and brainstorming ideas on the nighted roads of Gleann Abhann and Meridies that evening. The cold chill of our Plateau home called.

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 Travel Log - Menhir

Menhir

The Shire of Rising Stone
James C Ward Agricultural Center
Lebanon, TN
21 Jan 2023

Started the 2023 fighting season off with a 'bang' at Menhir yesterday. My squire bro Ronan and I journeyed down from the Plateau of the Cumbrians to visit the fun-loving folk of the Shire of Rising Stone at their event, Menhir.

For this event, I decided to take action on the council of several persons of import and not volunteer for anything that would conflict with fighting activities. A common piece of advice that I (and I'm sure most squires) receive is that they need to be in armor and on the field. I'll probably follow this practice going forward as far as fighting is concerned. If there is an opportunity to armor up, I am going to aim to be present and accountable.

Some part of me feels like the attitude above is selfish. And, to be honest and blunt, it is in some small bit. This SCA hobby is dependent on volunteer efforts to keep it moving along. When those volunteer pools dry up, that is when things faulter. I've got a strong sense of that need the SCA has and ignoring a need offends my idea of how this Dream works. 

But, the Dream also works when we strive for the personal things we came to perform and love about this SCA. I like to do armored combat. It gives me joy. And, I honestly am at the point in life where some activities have an expiration. I don't have any warning lights on the dash or anything, but the wear and tear on a body in any physical activity accumulates over time. Being a realist, I know that my time in kit is finite. 

So, a change in personal philosophy is in play. Fight first. Once the fighting is done, Ill provide what service I can for my hobby. I used to do the reverse of that. It'll take some getting used to. I hate seeing things go undone when I know I am able.

For those folks that have been telling me to do the above for a while, I never ignored you. I'm just slow to act on some things, and this is one of those things.

Now, back to Menhir.

As you may guess from the above, I did one thing at the event. I fought.

I joined in on the Papa Johannes Memorial Tourney that morning. It is a 'Pool Tournament' format. There were 18 or so combatants on the grounds that morning. The first round split the group into two 'pools' of roughly even numbers. Each pool fights a round robin tracking wins and losses. The second round took the top 4 from each 1st round grouping. The round robin repeats. The final was the top 4 from the second round.

There were many fine and esteemed participants in the list. Duke's Boru and Thomas Blackmore along with many peers, squires and unbelts made the groupings challenging and unique with very few common styles in play.

For my part, I had an OK day. There were some evident winter cobwebs in my presentation throughout the day. From the first round I managed to make the cut to the second. From the second I ended tied with Martin and Sir Haldr for the 4th place in the final. After the 3 of us fought it out, Sir Haldr advanced to the final. Duke Boru won the day.

My own assessment was that I was batting .500 all day. I had some good moments and some complete failures. I caught myself spectating in some of my fights causing me to take easy hits from my opponent. I felt my shield movement was out of sync at times. These are things Ill be working on. 

After the tourney, I joined in on some pickups. Got to spend some worthy and enjoyable passes with His Highness, Garick. I joined in a loose bearpit later in the day with Sir Eric Griffin, Sir Haldr, Ronan and Arthur. 

I sat two classes with HRH Garick (How to beat Garick) and Duke Boru (Footwork). Learned a couple of things Im going to work on from these classes.

Had some great advice presented that I will also be working on related to closing with an opponent and creating more randomization and less static looks to force my opposition out of a position or prevent them from getting 'set' into a strong stance (Hat tip to HG Boru). It all relates to controlling the fight. Which, feeds the 'fight my fight' rule that is another mantra that I hear a lot.

I had fun and our neighbors in Rising Stone did a bang up job as usual. Ronan and I packed up as the sun was setting and made the journey back to the Cumberlands for hearth and 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 Travel Log - Pennsic XLIX

Cooper's Lake Event Venue and Campground

205 Currie Rd, Slippery Rock, PA 16057

3-11 Aug 2022

Finally. My first Pennsic War. I'm possibly the first resident from my small shire of Easaraigh to go to Pennsic.

I made the journey to the premier SCA war - Pennsic. What follows here are some perspectives on my journey and thoughts on the experiences and things that I witnessed. 

My plans started with the knowledge that my knight and friend, Earl Benen MacTire, would be travelling to Pennsic XLIX alone this year without Countess Rosabel. After some discussion with my wife Ellen, we decided this was a good opportunity for me to get to see the war for the first time with the added benefit of helping a friend. So, I offered to travel with Benen to help him with his trip and provide support to him. As he is a long time Pennsic merchant (Renaissance Arts & Design - everyone should check them out) and attendee, assisting him would not only provide me with a confortable place to 'hang my hat' but it would also put me with one of the best guides a person could ask for for a first time trip to Pennsic.

Our trip was uneventful. Let me say that again, our trip... was uneventful. This made us both happy. After Benen's Columbus adventure story from his trip to Armistice last year, we both felt some relief in the pleasantness of a boringly routine trip from Tennessee to Pennsylvania.

We arrived at the site in the afternoon of August 3rd. My first impression on arrival was of how disorienting it would be if I was on my own. When you arrive at troll, you are pretty much in the middle of the site. You are surrounded by tents, vehicles, people, portajons, etc. The middle of the site is fairly level, so its like being dropped into the middle of a small town. Visibility of the troll area is somewhat limited, so you can see up and down the thoroughfares, but not much else. Use a northeastern style community for a visual, where the dwellings are all built close together with streets on a grid. It can be a little claustrophobic for the unaclimated. Arriving without an experienced guide or person meeting you at Troll, would really make for an overwhelming introduction to Pennsic for the first timer.

Our arrival at Troll was marked by the absence of any 'line' waiting to get in. So, we were trolled in within a few minutes. Now, I have seen the pictures and have heard the stories of the Pennsic Troll queue. So, I was quite happy to blow through the processed efficiently without any wait. My 1st takeaway is that 'Timing is eveything' for your Pennsic experience. Our arrival time, mid afternoon on a Wednesday, was a sweet spot as far as Troll is concerned.

Note, that while Troll was in a 'slow' period there were over 5,000 people onsite at this point of 'Peace Week'...

For the unindoctinated, 'Peace Week' is the first week of the Pennsic War. Pennsic is a 2 week event. During 'Peace Week', attendees settle in and setup camps, have classes and gatherings, etc. 'Peace Week' is geared toward a social experience. The second week of Pennsic is 'War Week'. And yes, this is when all of the martial activies of Pennsic take place. Back to the program...

...with still more attendees expected. Pennsic attracted somewhere just south of 8,000 people this year by the end of 'War Week'. I have been told that this was a small gathering in Pennsic terms. 

The COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly affected Pennsic attendance this year. Many people I know are still very cautious about gatherings with good reason. Pennsic XLIX was the first one held since the Society reopened for inperson activities. The virus was still active across the country and impacting people. I saw several posts from people noting it as the cause for not going or leaving the event early. Precautions were present. There was a mask policy in place for 'enclosed' spaces and some other areas, like Troll. Having been a cautious person through the pandemic, I welcomed the policy and also welcomed the ability to find spaces of openess around the site where I could bypass and avoid crowds. For all the people there, Pennsic is still an open air camping event. That helped me in my decision to attend on the heels of the pandemic shutdown of SCA activities.

With so many people there, I almost expected things to feel 'crowded'. I was pleasantly surprised that for the most part, the site did not feel crowded to me. Note that I dislike crowds. It's a level of discomfort that I avoid with a passion. So, me feeling comfortable with a camp population as big as Pennsic should be received as 'a big deal' for the like minded readers seeing this. 

The site covers over 500 acres and Pennsic is a sprawling construct plastered across most of that terrain. From the top of Mount Eiselinn to the bottom of The Bog, Pennsic occupies a vast area. Pepper all the attendees into those camps and venues and you rarely see too many people at one time. Not unlike the town analogy above, There might be 10,000 living in a town with me, but I will never see all those people at one time. That is how Pennsic is.

After registering at Troll, We had our site tokens and went to setup the booth and accoutrements. Being a merchant, Earl Benen has a 'traditional' location in the merchants area at the end of the Barn next to the very evil Ice Cream shop. We were met there by Sir Severin (once squire to Earl Benen and famous Trimarian personage) and Sir Marek, son Thomas and Baroness Sybilla (Friends and confidants from Aethelmarc) to help with the 'tent raising'. In short order we had the main tent up, my small tent up and walls errected to keep out most of the spurious riff-raff and help to fend off the temptations of the dread sweet treat dispensory next too us. 

This point on the corner of a shady lane at the end of the barn under the official 'Anus of Mordor' whitenoise broadcast would be my home and my first presence on Pennsic land. I did not realize it then but this locale would frame my Pennsic and set the tone for my event. Nothing bad about that at all. What I mean to say is that with Pennsic your location has a big influence on your experience. In this case, I got the 'merchant' affect on my event. There was a lot of foot traffic. I was in the middle of a lot of things (store, ice cream shop, merchants, ice cream shop, food court, ice cream shop, etc). I could see the fighting field. I had good access to 'hard' restroom and shower structures. I had easy access to a lot of things I would not normally have quick access to if I was out in the Sarengetti or up on the Mount or down in the Bog. My location framed my experience.

I suspect that concept is true for all attendees. My hypothesis is that Pennsic is not just one event. Pennsic is many events. The many events are held close together, times and locations overlap. Attendees travel through the two weeks, picking which 'events' they want to attend and return each eve to their chosen land. Some, never leave their land and that land is their event. You see, Pennsic as an 'event' is really big. It's too big really to be considered an event in itself. Pennsic, by my estimation, is more akin to an entire kingdom's calendar of events all held at one time. That, for the newbs like me, is what the Pennsic event is like. Pennsic is closer to a State Fair or one of those big music festivals with many stages. Calling Pennsic an event is really underselling it. My two cents.

I had brought my armor. But, I did not don it. Nagging nerve pinch in my back kept me off the field this time. With armored combat being my primary SCA activity these days, I had a lot of time on my hands. To wit, I directed it toward helping Benen run the booth. I have never been a merchant. Benen enthusiastically made efforts to induct me into the into the Hanseatic League. Not sure Ill make the cut. I do think I got a good understanding of how to be a sherpa in hot weather. Not for the meek. Merchanting is not a bad way to experience an event. But, I make no bones that I know much in my limited exposure. All I can say for sure is that Im a good helper, I appreciate the perspective and I was happy to be there. So, I watched the event through the frame of the tents doorway most of my days there and that was a good experience.

In my Pennsic acclimation, I have been educated on the legend of the Ice Mafia and I think I actually crossed paths with a 'made' member when meek young girl came into the booth and got an ‘Everyone listens to someone with an axe…‘ shirt in size small and produced a bank roll the size of my fist to pay for it. The little girl is not someone to be trifled with and I didn't. I also learned the mafia is into hawking the news in the Pennsic Independent newspaper that is produced during the event when a 6 or 7 yr old boy came up our lane. I heard him before I saw him. A child’s voice, barely audible coming unseen from the other side of the tent wall ‘Pennsic Independent , a dollar twenty-five…’. Then it repeated. And there he was in the door. Barely waist high. Had to buy one. No choice. He even had an adult bodyguard making change and carrying his bag of papers. A lot of the Pennsic myth comes to you it seems, but there is more to see than can show up on your doorstep. 

I made several forays from the booth in different directions to see what there was to see. Benen also provided guided tours around the camp, pointing out things of interest and recounting stories of past events. As I have previously mentioned, Pennsic is big. You cannot see it all. Just can't. I took in what I could. Got some pictures and just watched and listened. Pennsic is a lot.

There were a lot of merchants. Not as many as normal from what I understand, but a lot more that you will find anywhere else. Benen says a new SCAdian can come to Pennsic and leave fully kitted out for whatever their interests are provided they have the coin. That is a true statement. Everything to be had for a medieval recreationist was there. I think you could even make the case, for those not interested the whole Pennsic, to just plan a long weekend and drive up to Slippery Rock, get a room at an inn, daytrip the site and shop. That would be a worthwhile and fun trip for many I know.

In addition to the Cooper's store and restaurant, there were several food vendors selling sustenance. Food, drink, deserts... all were available. A person could go to Pennsic without packing any food. We were fortunate to have dinner brought to us by Baroness Sybilla and Sir Marek the first few nights before we started foraging. Though foraging at Pennsic is a minor affair with sundries being as plentiful as they are. I think bringing some water would be the only thing I would recommend as required, though you could get that readily at the Cooper's store alond with ice.

Heat was a big deal for the first half of our stay. While the temps were lower than they were in Tennessee, the humidity hovered close to 100% for several days. There werent many storms, but we were grateful for the breeze the storms brought for the relief provided. I took to showering late in the evening and found I was usually soaked by the time I got back to my cot. It made for a sweltering several days. Things did moderate toward the latter half of the time there. The temps cooled and the humidity lessened to a point that was almost ideal.

My biggest takeaway from the trip will be the time spent with people. Being just a 'poor 'ole rustic Meridian', getting some exposure to this SCA world at large did me good. I got to spend some quality time with Sir Severin, a brother from another land. I was intoduced to the progenitor and progenitrix of Earl Benen's chivalric peerage - Sir Tnek and Mistress Tannis (Tnek begat Quenton begat Brendan begat Benen). Duchess Rebekah helped Benen with midnight madness. I was given insight of the trials of an Aethelmarc Warlord from Sir Marek. In the mornings, we broke fast and some days Sir Lothar or Sir Johannes would join us. Through the day, we had visits from many others (not we so much as he - Benen) and I got to hear many stories. The evenings were met with the hunt for dinner, winding down discussions with many people who visited us and who we visited. All of these interactions were rewarding and fulfilling. All of them. Being a generally limited social creature (meaning Im generally insular in my social activies) the exposure to all of the comings and goings was a pleasant change to my norm. Most of all, getting to spend some time with Benen made the days worthwhile. Almost felt like I was making up for the years we didn't know each other in some small way. It was good 'bonding time' that I am thankful to have shared in.

Pennsic offers much in just plain tourism. The Runestone, where pilgrims deposit tokens in homage to the place, has a mystic feel about it along with its quiet space in the trees. The manorhouse on the lake that so often appears in pictures only hints at the vastness and ingenuity found in the camps hidden and tucked away around the lake in the wood. The infamous Bog. The various armies marching to and from trom the fighting field singing songs and horns blaring add daily color to the camps with banners in the wind and tabard worn. There is also the vast view of the entire site from the vantage of Mount Eislinn above the Pennsic numerials carved in its side Whether sitting in one spot and watching the thrum move past or exploring Pennsic on walkabout, you would be hard pressed to not see something new and interesting. 

Our trip ended with the hard stop shutdown of merchanting on Friday, 8/12. The Cooper's do not play around and all merchanting came to a hard stop early in the afternoon. We packed the camp. Marek, Sybilla and company help with the loadout. Farewells and hugs exchanged. As began to dusk settle over the camp, we were on the road south to our home on the plateau.

My journey was fruitful. While I was a spectator through most of it, the experience is rewarding. I now understand why people would say that everyone should make a trip to Pennsic at least once in their SCA lifetime. Hopefully, I will be able to go again and maybe try some different things. Time will tell.

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