Clyde’s Travels - Meridian Grand Tournament

Meridian Grand Tournament

Bert Adams Scout Camp

Covington, GA

Hosted by the Kingdom of Meridies

September 29 - October 1, 2023

At the end of September, I left for the southern pass from my Cumbrian home to attend the Meridian Grand Tournament in the baronial lands of South Downs. The tournament is an all day event consisting of 5 different tournaments that is capped off by the Earl Richard of Rae Fen Memorial Grand Tournament. 

I registered for three of the tournaments and helped administer two others during the day as well as having the good fortune to be selected to participate in the grand tournament itself.

Early in the day I went to the field for inspection and lost one of my swords along the way (fell off my cart). Lucky for me, it was found and returned by a friend of my Knight, Sir Almeric. As I was assisting with the setup of the Kingdom pavilion, I overhear a voice ‘So, I found this sword…’. I peered from under the canvas to see Sir Almeric, a smirk on his face and a look saying that there would be a penance due. I thanked the good knight and consented to pay whatever penance he thought was due. That penance by the end of the day was a single fight and sharing the day with him and his squire, Okami, field side, under my day shade. I feel I got away with one here as the company was outstanding and I enjoyed every minute of it.

I marshaled for the Armatura and Great Weapons tournaments, early and late in the day. I also furnished the prize for the Armatura, which was won by Xenos Theodrikes. The prize is a shield commission to be made by me. 

My first tournament in the day was the Sabre Tourney. I went to the second round, losing to Thorhall WulfstanSan in a quick exchange that left me at his mercy with no way for me to recover. Then on to the Chalice Tournament. I faired about the same, making it to the second round, losing to Graf Ulrich von Brandenburg. My third tournament was the Sable Sword challenge. In the William Marshal format, I fought a lot. I think I had 12 or more passes before I needed a rest. I tried to pick anyone I had not fought during the day. This is when I actually got my one pass with Sir Almeric. I felt good all day. I was hot, tired and happy. All my fights were as clean as I could make them. I had some good moments and some do’ah moments, like you do. I laughed all day long. It was a blast. Little did I know, it was not over.

As I was walking about the eric socializing, Graf Ulric called me to his pavilion to let me know I was selected to be the recipient of a prize for having the best crusader kit on the field. A fiberglass spear shaft was gifted to me Grafina Katerina and Graf Ulrich. Totally unexpected. I had honestly forgot about the field competitions. I nice reward for a good day fighting I thought. Little did I know, I wasn’t done.

At the end of the day, the 2 finalists of each tournament are sent to the final round along with selected fighters chosen by each of the peerages and populace. That’s when Mistress Mijna approached with Graf Ulrich and Sir Griffin to let me know the Order of the Pelican had chosen me to be their champion in the final. I was flabbergasted. This was the first time for me in the many MGT events I had been to where I was selected to be a champion in the final. I did not do particularly well in the final. I fought hard and hope I proved a challenge to my opponents and represented the Order of the Pelican to a standard befitting the honor the gave me.

Video Credit Asa Kolbrun

I was asked afterward how it felt to be selected. At the time, the best I could come up with was ‘weird’. It just felt weird at the time. I attribute the response to this being the first time I had experienced it. Do not get me wrong, it was a very good experience. It was just odd in that in any other tournament you fight in, you win to progress. In this case I was selected by a poll of the order to represent them. I think missing that process of moving though the ranks of a normal tournament where you understand that if you win you will move forward is what felt off. The experience was not diminished in any way. After thinking on it, the honor given in the selection is worth more than a simple win your way out. You are selected because you had done something right. It is an award of sorts for your prowess and franchise. I am humbled by that thought. It says you did things right and people saw you. That realization made me feel proud. But, wait… there is more to come.

The Grand Tournament was won by Duke Boru in the end. There were many wonderful fights in the final. Great efforts and grand chivalry were on full display. It was a fitting end to the fighting day.

Later in court, I watched as the proceedings carried on and came to a close. But, before the close… my name was called. I had no expectations. I had no notions that I was up for anything. Their Majesties Garrick and Yasamin greeted me and bade me kneel. Then, they called up the Order of the Sable Sword. Dumbfounded. His majesty took my hand and spoke sincerely to me and just to me. Acknowledgement of my improvements. Recognition of my efforts. In these moments, we often lose the specific words. And I have. But, I remember the feelings, the warmth, the pride, the thankfulness. The scroll was read. The cloak of the order placed upon my shoulders. The Order of the Sable Sword welcomed me into their cadre. What an awesome end to the day.

After court, we ate like kings on smoked meats and other delights. I sat with friends and we talked of all the things. Before he left, Sir Almeric gifted me a single link from his chain. Not a common tradition, but I had heard of it before. It’s an uncommon and meaningful honor. The gifting is a personal vote of support and gratitude. It is now part of my chain and his wisdom shared with me during the day will bolster my efforts going forward. Well met, Sir Almeric.

To say I had an awesome day would be an under embellishment. I had a rare day of good fortune that I would hope everyone has a chance to have at least once. I am very thankful for this hobby I share with so many good people that help to keep the dream alive.

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 - Hausblot

Hausblot

Pulaski, TN

Hosted by the Shire of Loch an Fhraoich

September 23, 2023

As Summer made way for Autumn, I travelled from my plateau home to the lowlands of upper Meridies to visit our neighbors from Loch an Fhraoich for their harvest celebration, Hausblot.

The day long affair had many activities to entertain everyone, but I went for the fighting and found plenty of that to my liking.

The first tournament of the day was a 3v3 team melee. The list was round robin. Due to my lack of planning ahead, I thought to just pickup a team when I arrived. As the time for the list approached and teams were being announced, I found myself running solo. It is not the condition I had expected, but was willing to accept. As luck would have it though, the illustrious Duke Boru was nearby and upon overhearing my lack of a team, he took pity on me and announced boldly that he would stand with me. This was a pleasant surprise and we two, we happy two, looked to the upcoming challenge with enthusiastic vigor.

That’s when the fun began. From our first engagement to our last, chaos reigned. I did my best to establish ruin and confusion. His grace administered calm ducal judgment to those I left in my wake. Together, we almost succeeded in the improbable. We came in as runner up in the end. It was a lot of fun sharing the field with His Grace and definitely something I would have on my highlight reel (if such a thing existed).

We paused for lunch. The food was well prepared, tasty and plentiful. I hydrated and ate light to prepare myself for the afternoon combats. 

In the afternoon, I participated in a single elimination tournament. Each round was the best 2 out of 3. There were around 20 fighters I think. I made it to the semi final rounds. My fighting was clean and I felt good about it. I lost to the phenomenal fighter Marcus Lepidus who went on to challenge Sir Haldr for the final. 

After the fighting, there was a Baronial Court with Their Excellencies Glaedenfeld presiding. Some awards and recognitions were given. And the day was done.

I had a ton of fun, laughing all day. I got to spend time with my friends and hangout in the sun and shade on a late summer day. It was a good time and made the journey home joyous with the warmth of camaraderie found on the field with Loch an Fhraoich.

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 - InterKingdom BIRTHDAY BASH/fighter practice

InterKingdom BIRTHDAY BASH/fighter practice

Shire of Nant-y-Derwyddon
Laurel Grove
Bristol, TN
26 August 2023

As I stood outside my shire home one fine day, a messenger arrived. He was on a donkey with a dull, deliberate demeanor that left me with the impression that the beast was casually going about its duty. The burden mounted upon its back, in the form of a perfumed herald, was the beast’s equal in inconspicuous urgency. The herald spoke, “I hear the bird’s tune can carry on the wind for 12 leagues.” 

I paused for a moment, slightly surprised. I knew the day might come but had not expected it so soon. “That is sometimes true for the Jay and the Robin, but only the Duck is guaranteed”, I replied. 

The herald rummaged in his bag and retrieved a bound with wax, rolled parchment. The herald handed me the parcel. The donkey turned and away they went, leaving me standing in the road. 

I broke the seal, and here is what I saw. 

Unto the Warden, Shire of Easaraigh, Meridies, We are aware that you, your liege, and squire-brother are rarely seen in the same locations at any given time. You must foster unity and brotherhood with your kin. Do better. 

 

Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to get off your collective ‘duffs’ and go do something together.  

 

As usual, any knowledge of you, your associates or the missive will be expressly denied in the event of discovery. This message will self destruct in 10 seconds.

I blinked twice. A black and white goat approached. In passing, it snagged the missive from my hand. It chewed loudly as it moved away. The missive was gone. The goat soon after, disappearing into a field over a small rise.

A few days later, opportunity presented itself in the form of the dashingly heroic form of Sir Marek. Trusted confidant of our good Earl, he asked if we would be going to the Shire of Nant-y-Derwyddon for the upcoming regional practice. The Earl must have been in a good and magnanimous mood because he responded positively to the inquiry. To my amazement, a plan was coming together.

That very eve, I dispatched a messenger fowl to my squire-brother, Ronan, to see if he would also be amicable to a journey east with the Earl and I. No more than three quacks and a duck flatulence later, we had our answer. He accepted. The Earl's wolfpack would be making the journey to the far northeastern reaches of the Meridian lands.

Early on the morning of the event, Earl Benen, Ronan, and I mounted a wagon heading east. The journey into the mountainous reaches of Meridies was peaceful and as quick as the wind. We discussed many subjects of serious and less than serious nature as we followed the trails into the Appalachia.

We arrived at the Laurel Grove estate early in the afternoon. The estate, within the Shire of Nant-y-Derwyddon's oversight, is a prime venue in the region. Popular with the locals as well as travellers from the Kingdoms of Aethelmearc and Atlantia.

Many fighters were arriving in the same time span as we did. Immediately upon our arrival, we were greeted by the stalwart Sir Marek, knight of Aethelmearc and friend to the house of Benen MacTire. He helped us to the fighting eric, and we were greeted by many friendly faces from the local shire and others of the region.

There were many fighters of renown and fame present from three kingdoms - Meridies, Atlantia, and Aethelmearc. Here is a list of some of the most prominent present in the eric that day:

Duke Cuán MacDaige

Duke Christoph Krieger

Duke Anton Tremayne

Duchess Signy Heri

Earl Benen MacTire

Viscount Waleric von Bredereke

Sir Marek Viacheldrago

The ducal contingent represented Atlantia. Earl Benen and Viscount Waleric were there for Meridies. Sir Marek, as previously indicated, is a champion of Aethelmearc. There were over 20 fighters from 3 kingdoms. Some brand new. Some newish. Skills ranged from novice to intermediate to expert to 'DAMN!, they're good!'.

I was most impressed with the mentoring nature that the Atlantian royal peers adopted throughout the day. Atlantians, known for their stout and powerful skills on the tourney field, surprised me at first with a side of Atlantian single combat I had not witnessed before. Me, expecting strong blows and near impregnable opponents, found an ally, showing me my faults and how to correct. While still damn near impregnable, everything was an opportunity for learning. I was amazed and truly impressed when I discovered they had adopted a teaching role for the day. They were overflowing with observations, technique and enthusiasm for teaching all day long. I felt privileged with a gift of a 'Ducal University' being delivered from Atlantia for all of us to share. 

The day, while somewhat cooler, fell into the heat that has plagued us in Meridies all summer. It was oppressive, forcing us to work in short bursts of combat and longer intermissions to manage our constitutions.

I had many, many wonderful passes throughout the day. I think I fought 9 or 10 different fighters, only a couple I knew first hand. I got caught in some habitual fighting and corrected for it. I worked with some newer fighters and I was able to receive some direct instruction from Dukes Anton and Cuan. It was a fruitful day for me and I am very happy we made the journey. The lessons learned will be carried with me for quite a while.

Most of all, I got to spend the day with my peer and my squire-brother. We shared a day together. My improbable mission was accomplished.

We closed our day in Nant-y-Derwyddon at a local eatery with Sir Marek. We ate good food. Talked about fighting. Reviewed our day. And finished with some banana free banana pudding for free.

Sated, we warily dodged pedistrian railings back to our wagons were we bid the good Sir Marek adieu, mounted our conveyance and made our way down from the mountains to our Cumbrian plateau homes. It was a very good day.

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 - 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.