Thursday, December 30, 2010
Konnichiwa & Greetings to the Populace of Nottinghill Coill!
The Barony had a very good year in 2010, let's keep the momentum going!
We will hold our first Baronial Populace Meeting of the new year at our Baronial Birthday on Saturday February 26, time to be announced presently. I hope you can attend. If you have an idea for a Practice, Workshop, Demo or Event please contact me at barontakeda@yahoo.com.
I wish everyone a happy and prosperous New Year! As always I remain.....
In Service to the Dream,
Baron Takeda Yoshinaka
Seneschal, Nottinghill Coill
We will hold our first Baronial Populace Meeting of the new year at our Baronial Birthday on Saturday February 26, time to be announced presently. I hope you can attend. If you have an idea for a Practice, Workshop, Demo or Event please contact me at barontakeda@yahoo.com.
I wish everyone a happy and prosperous New Year! As always I remain.....
In Service to the Dream,
Baron Takeda Yoshinaka
Seneschal, Nottinghill Coill
A&S by Rohesia Anven of Thessalonica
Greetings,
This month I would like to thank those who showed an interest in last month’s competition. Unfortunately, there were no scrolls submitted so I will save the idea for another day. If you are currently working on something scribbly I encourage you to enter in the Twelth Night scroll blank competition that Baroness Tegan , the Kingdom Chart Signet, is sponsoring. (More details are available on the Merry Rose)
For this month’s edition of the Baronial A&S section I want to start out with some “thank yous.” First and foremost to everyone who competed in the Yule Toy Tourney A&S competition. Without you there would be no competition! Next, I would also like to thank the judges; Mistress Siobhán NicDhuinnshléibhe, Mistress Collwen ferch Dafydd Caerllion and Mistress Lidia de Ragusa. Without judges there couldn’t be a competition either! Last, I would also like to thank Countess Kari for helping round up such excellent judges.
This month I have a fun and challenging quiz. I have a photo collage of the various entries that were submitted at the event. Each individual picture has a number and below I have listed the names of the A&S contestants. And you don’t just win bragging rights, there is a $10 gift certificate on the line. The certificate is the winner’s choice of either one of these stores: JoAnns Fabrics, Hancock Fabrics, A.C. Moore, Hobby Lobby or Michaels.
Rules: The first person to _email me_ all nine correct numbers with the corresponding competitor’s names - WINS! The contest ends two weeks from the day that the Quill is published online. Contest eligibility is limited to those who are “residents” of Nottinghill Coill. However, the judges I listed above as well as Baron Geldamar and Baroness Etain are automatically disqualified.
*Hint: There are 7 names listed but 9 pictures, so that means someone may have entered more than one item.
Contestants:
Antonio Felluci
Jean-Claude de Lyon
Brandon Caiside
Avisa of Dun Carraig
In Service,
Rohesia Anven of Thessalonica
arwynn16(AT)|gmail.com
This month I would like to thank those who showed an interest in last month’s competition. Unfortunately, there were no scrolls submitted so I will save the idea for another day. If you are currently working on something scribbly I encourage you to enter in the Twelth Night scroll blank competition that Baroness Tegan , the Kingdom Chart Signet, is sponsoring. (More details are available on the Merry Rose)
For this month’s edition of the Baronial A&S section I want to start out with some “thank yous.” First and foremost to everyone who competed in the Yule Toy Tourney A&S competition. Without you there would be no competition! Next, I would also like to thank the judges; Mistress Siobhán NicDhuinnshléibhe, Mistress Collwen ferch Dafydd Caerllion and Mistress Lidia de Ragusa. Without judges there couldn’t be a competition either! Last, I would also like to thank Countess Kari for helping round up such excellent judges.
This month I have a fun and challenging quiz. I have a photo collage of the various entries that were submitted at the event. Each individual picture has a number and below I have listed the names of the A&S contestants. And you don’t just win bragging rights, there is a $10 gift certificate on the line. The certificate is the winner’s choice of either one of these stores: JoAnns Fabrics, Hancock Fabrics, A.C. Moore, Hobby Lobby or Michaels.
Rules: The first person to _email me_ all nine correct numbers with the corresponding competitor’s names - WINS! The contest ends two weeks from the day that the Quill is published online. Contest eligibility is limited to those who are “residents” of Nottinghill Coill. However, the judges I listed above as well as Baron Geldamar and Baroness Etain are automatically disqualified.
*Hint: There are 7 names listed but 9 pictures, so that means someone may have entered more than one item.
Contestants:Etain of Sutherland
Thamira ha Sophan
Frida in Harfagra Antonio Felluci
Jean-Claude de Lyon
Brandon Caiside
Avisa of Dun Carraig
In Service,
Rohesia Anven of Thessalonica
arwynn16(AT)|gmail.com
The Raptor's Tale: Chapter One by Black Jack of Flint
"Aye, Cap'n!" The Bosun brought a whistle to his lips, and began to sound the call. The Bosun's mates took up the whistle, calling down into the berthings for the day watch to come up.
"Mr. Miller, check with Cookie, and see if'n he can't safely light the galley fires, and get some hot food into these men. I'll be in me cabin if ye need me."
"Aye, Cap'n, will do so straight away. Do ye be havin a course in mind fer today?"
"Yes, make for Calais. I've a meeting with Madame Sylvie and the others coming up, and I would be remiss if I was to arrive late. However, if we stumble across a ship in need of salvage on the way, sing out!" With that, the Captain's wide grin split his close trimmed beard, and he went below.
"Black"Jack Flint, currently Captain of the Pirate Ship Raptor, went to his cabin, and sat at his desk, missing the chair as it slid out from underneath him. He had been captain of the ship for just under six months, and was still getting a feel for how she moved. "Blast!" Flint muttered to himself as he picked himself back up. Standing, he felt the ship turning hard to port. "What the devil is going on here?" he asked himself as he went to the door. At that moment, the cabin boy came in, and informed that there was a Merchant ship 2 points off the port bow, about a league off, and that Mr. Miller had given chase. "Very well, lad, inform the gun crews tae make ready, and tell Mr. Miller I will be up shortly." "Aye aye, Cap'n!" The dirty lad scampered off.
Flint arrived on the quarterdeck shortly thereafter, dressed in his traditional garb. Black tunic, knee breeches, and what his officers called "that ridiculous sash and head wrap", both of which were a bright vibrant purple. "Report, Mr. Miller!"
"Cap'n, we've a merchantman sitting low in the water, and I don't believe she's spotted us yet. We've got a good breeze pushing us towards her, and we're gaining fast. We should be able to take her fairly easily."
Flint grabbed a spyglass from the rack on the rail, and took a look. "Ye've been spotted now, Mr. Miller. She's flying every inch of sail she has, and ye're losing your lead. Mr. Bradley," Flint called to the pilot at the helm, "If you please, two points more to port, see if we can't regain some of that lead. We'll tack up a bit, and then see if we can't come back across, and rake her stern. Get the starboard gun crews loaded and ready to fire." Flint looked at the mast of the pursued ship. "Mr. Miller, can you make what colors she's flying?"
Miller looked again, and replied, "Looks like she's flying the Union Jack, sir."
"All right, then, fly the same, and see if we can't get them to slow down. Prepare our colors as well, to run up AFTER the first shots are fired. Don't run out the guns until I give the order."
Time crawled by as they gained on the ship. The tacking to port had helped to regain some lost ground, as well as having put up an extra sheet on the topsail. The Raptor was now in a fast pursuit, flying every inch of sail she could put on. "Mr. Miller, I believe you may now call full battle stations, and have the boarders begin their preparations. Mr. Golden!! Make ready to have the Port chasers send a warning shot across her as soon as you see our colors run up! Gun crews, as soon as Mr. Golden fires his warning shot, I want the starboard crews to run out! Port crews, stand by to assist reloading and aiming!"
Flint pulled the glass out again, and was judging the distance to the enemy ship. "What say you, Mr. Miller, I would put us at just over five hundred yards, yes?"
Miller took the glass, and made his own estimate. "Six hundred at the most, Cap'n. We should close to within five hundred in a moment."
Both men watched the ship grow larger as the distance closed. Then Flint called out, "Strike that Jack, and fly our true colors!!!! Mr. Golden, FIRE!!!!! Gun crews, run out and take aim! Go for the Rudder, if you can!!! We are still coming up on her stern. Reload as quickly as you can, with chain and make your second shots for her sheets!"
The Port chasers fired, as Captain Flint's personal colors went up, replacing the Union Jack that was on the mast. The enemy tried to heel over to break away, which was exactly what Flint was counting on. "GUN CREWS FIRE!!!" The sound of cannon fire could easily be heard over the pounding of the surf. Flint and Miller watched the enemy, to see what affect the Raptor's gun crews had, if any. Miller called out, "Her rudder's busted, Cap'n, it worked!!"
Flint shouted, "Boarders on deck! Helm, make ready to come alongside on her port. Mr. Golden, well done! Double load your guns to fire upon their crews as we pull up! Mr. Stone, if you please, have the quarterdeck guns follow the same order. Sweep their decks as we pull up, to reduce the risk to our boarders." The men shouted acknowledgement, and ran to carry out the orders.
The boarding parties swarmed on deck, with muskets on their backs, pistols and cutlasses and knives in their belts, and grapple lines in their hands. Flint smiled, and turned to Mr. Miller. "We've got another advantage, Mr. Miller. The wind just turned, and is now blowing her into us. On my order, reef all sails so as to not get tangled in theirs."
Miller nodded, and answered, "Aye aye, sir."
Flint turned to the helmsman. "We're ready whenever you are, Mr. Bradley."
"Aye, Cap'n, we be comin alongside now."
Flint looked, and replied, "Well done, lad, not a scrape to be heard! Grapples away, reef all sails, boarders, take her!!!!" The cabin boy arrived on deck with Flint's pistols, and cutlass. After belting his weapons on, he moved down to board the enemy ship.
Miller called out, "Cap'n she's ours! She's struck her colors, and they're surrendering!!!" A cheer went up throughout the ship.
Flint boarded, and headed for the quarterdeck, where he found his First Mate, Mr. Thomas, and several boarders surrounding the Officer staff of the taken ship, who all looked very unhappy. "Gentlemen, I be Captain "Black"Jack Flint, Captain of the ship Raptor. Who be the Captain here, and what ship is this?"
One of the officers stepped forward. "I am currently acting as captain, as your "Warning shot" took our captain's head off his shoulders. The man never knew what hit him. The ship is called Elizabeth's Pride."
Flint grinned insolently. "Well then, he didn't have tae worry about why his ship was taken so easily, did he? Gentlemen, I'll take yer swords and me men will take the rest of yer weapons. Soon as we can find a place to be settin ye ashore, we'll do so. Only thing I need from you lads is yer word that there'll be no trouble between here and there, or I shall have ye put over now, tae swim home."
The captured officers looked at each other, and shrugged. The "Acting" Captain spoke again. "This was our first voyage, and was supposed to be relatively easy. We left Port Jamaica a month ago, most of us having been there since we were young lads, and were returning to London with jewelry and gold for Queen Elizabeth, and goods to trade on the market."
"Well then, methinks this turned out to be a rather profitable voyage, after all. Methinks Madame Sylvie would be thrilled to have some new jewels, and of course I'll have tae be finding something nice for my Lady Ophelia, as well. Mr. Thomas, if you please, make sure you've got firm control of the ship, and pick some of your men to stay here with you, and we'll take you in tow until we make landfall." Flint turned to the Raptor. "Mr. Miller!" Flint shouted across the span.
"Aye, sir!" came the reply from the Raptor's quarterdeck.
"Mr. Miller, if you would be so kind, please tell me where the nearest spot of semi-hospitable land is fer us to set these men?" Miller left the side to go check the charts, and came back about fine minutes later.
"We can hit Lisbon in two days, on our way to Calais!"
"Fair enough!" Flint turned back to the captives. "Gentlemen, it looks like you're to be our guests for at least another two days, providing the weather holds, you'll have to find other passage home from Lisbon. No worries, I'm a gentleman, I'll not take anyone's personal monies or property, just what is on the Manifest, and anything else I find in the holds. Mr. Thomas, do ye have a Quartermaster among yer lot tae go over the manifests?" Thomas nodded in the affirmative. "Fair enough, then, set him to work, and I want copies of the Manifests before we hit Lisbon. Also, someone bring me the Captain's log, so that I might review it. I'll be returning to the Raptor as soon as I get the log, Mr. Thomas, so the ship will be yours."
"Aye aye, Cap'n."
A cabin boy arrived with the Ship's and Captain's personal logs, and Flint returned to the Raptor. "Mr. Miller, at your convenience, break us free of the Pride, and take her under tow. She's not goin much of anywhere with no rudder, is she? I'll be below reviewing these logs."
"Aye, sir, if anything comes up, we'll sing out."
Flint turned to go below, and stopped. "Oh, and Mr. Miller, an extra rum ration to the crew with dinner, with my thanks for a job well done today." The crew cheered the Captain as he went below.
The trip to Lisbon went smoothly, with no further problems. Captain Flint had decided that he wasn't going to sell the Pride, as she apparently was contracted with the Queen herself. Last thing he wanted at this point was that fop, Francis Drake chasing him all over the seas. Once the two ships arrived in Lisbon Port, Flint had all the cargo moved from the Pride to the Raptor, and sold off whatever he could get a good profit for. All the jewelry was kept for Madame Sylvie to go through first, for her and her ladies. Then she would have her people sell the rest of it, and Flint would get his share of the profits.
The Pride's crew was then released, and their officers had their weapons returned. Elizabeth's Pride was then allowed to put in for repairs to her rudder, and then back underway for London. The Raptor then set sail, seeking the next trophy on the way to Calais.
© 2010 Jack Black of Flint
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Greetings to the populace of Nottinghill Coill.
Although this month has been filled with sadness, it is now a time of thanksgiving. Sometimes the sorrows remind us of the things that we should be thankful for every day.We are thankful for the life of Baron Corwyn Woodward, who contributed so much to the lives of those who knew him, and the history of our Barony. We are enriched by his memory.
We are thankful for the support shown to Irmgard, Wilhelm and Dorthy when they lost their home to fire. We are even more grateful that they are safe, for things can be replaced.
We are thankful for all these things and so many more. The SCA is our extended family, and we wish you all the very best during this holiday. We will raise a toast to the fine people we are thankful to call friends.
Geldamar and Etain
Baron and Baroness
Nottinghill Coill Baronial Birthday
February 25 – 27, 2011
Barony of Nottinghill Coill
Come and help celebrate the Birthday Day of the Barony of NottinghillCoill! A day filled with Baronial Champion Challenges, A&S Competitions, Classes, Merchants for Shopping, and of course a wonderful Feast!
The Nottinghill Coill Baronial Scribal Guild will be sponsoring a breakfast on Saturday morning. For a small donation you’ll get a hot homemade breakfast without having to cook or clean up!
Martial Activities: Armored, Rapier and Target Archery - look for more details as they become available!
Arts and Sciences Activities: Open Competition, Baronial Champion Competitions, Best Birthday Cake Competition (these will be eaten at the event), and a Baronial Scroll Blank Competition.
Cost:
Adult, Member: $8.00 Day-Trip, $8.00 Feast, $5.00 Camping
Adult, Non-Member: $13.00 Day-Trip, $8.00 Feast, $5.00 Camping
Youth (5-17): $3.00 Day-Trip, $8.00 Feast, $5.00 Camping
Child (0-4): Guests of the Baron and Baroness *
Make Checks Payable To: SCA, Inc., Barony of Nottinghill Coill
Cost Notes: There is limited cabin space and tent camping is allowed.
*All feast spots are $8.00 per person. Cabin space is $5.00 per person.
Site: Camp Sandy Ridge, Ebenezer Road, Bennettesville, SC. Site opens on Friday at 5 PM and closes Sunday at Noon.
Site Restrictions: No pets. Smoking in designated areas only. No open flame in feast hall. No ground fires. DRY SITE; absolutely no alcohol!
Feast Information: Feast is being prepared by Lord Axum Oneal. Please direct any dietary concerns to: smsoforic(at)aol.com
Merchanting Information: Merchants are welcome, please contact the autocrat.
Autocrat’s Information: Lady Milicent Shiveley & Lord Donal Oneal (Robin & Donny Oneal);
Phone: 843 917-4511
Email: Hagatha819(at )aol.com (Milicent)
Rainbowarrior826(at) aol.com (Donal)
Reservations: Lady Emma verch Howell (Karen Beedy) 2212 E. Lydia Highway, Hartsville, SC 29550 Email: K.beedy(at)hotmail.com Phone Number: 843-861-7853
Directions:
From the South:
Take your best route to Highway 52 south of Society Hill.
Take Hwy. 52 North into Society Hill. In Society Hill, follow Highway 401, NOT Hwy. 52, which bears left. Follow Hwy. 401 straight through Society Hill (Gailey and Lord plant will be on the left as leave Society Hill). Go 7 miles, look for Hwy. 912. Turn LEFT onto Hwy. 912. Follow Hwy. 912 for 8 miles until ends at Hwy. 9. Turn LEFT onto Hwy. 9 and then turn RIGHT onto Ebenezer Rd. (you will see a church and a water tower). Follow Ebenezer Rd. for 3 1/2 miles. Sandy Ridge will be on the RIGHT.
From North of Bennettsville
Take your best route to Hwy. 9 near Pageland/Cheraw.
Take Hwy. 9 East towards Bennettsville. Look for water tower on LEFT of highway before Bennettsville. Turn LEFT onto Ebenezer Rd/water tower turn). Ebenezer United Methodist Church will be on your RIGHT after you turn onto Ebenezer Rd. Follow Ebenezer Rd. for 3 1/2 miles. Sandy Ridge will be on your RIGHT.
Barony of Nottinghill Coill
Come and help celebrate the Birthday Day of the Barony of NottinghillCoill! A day filled with Baronial Champion Challenges, A&S Competitions, Classes, Merchants for Shopping, and of course a wonderful Feast!
The Nottinghill Coill Baronial Scribal Guild will be sponsoring a breakfast on Saturday morning. For a small donation you’ll get a hot homemade breakfast without having to cook or clean up!
Martial Activities: Armored, Rapier and Target Archery - look for more details as they become available!
Arts and Sciences Activities: Open Competition, Baronial Champion Competitions, Best Birthday Cake Competition (these will be eaten at the event), and a Baronial Scroll Blank Competition.
Cost:
Adult, Member: $8.00 Day-Trip, $8.00 Feast, $5.00 Camping
Adult, Non-Member: $13.00 Day-Trip, $8.00 Feast, $5.00 Camping
Youth (5-17): $3.00 Day-Trip, $8.00 Feast, $5.00 Camping
Child (0-4): Guests of the Baron and Baroness *
Make Checks Payable To: SCA, Inc., Barony of Nottinghill Coill
Cost Notes: There is limited cabin space and tent camping is allowed.
*All feast spots are $8.00 per person. Cabin space is $5.00 per person.
Site: Camp Sandy Ridge, Ebenezer Road, Bennettesville, SC. Site opens on Friday at 5 PM and closes Sunday at Noon.
Site Restrictions: No pets. Smoking in designated areas only. No open flame in feast hall. No ground fires. DRY SITE; absolutely no alcohol!
Feast Information: Feast is being prepared by Lord Axum Oneal. Please direct any dietary concerns to: smsoforic(at)aol.com
Merchanting Information: Merchants are welcome, please contact the autocrat.
Autocrat’s Information: Lady Milicent Shiveley & Lord Donal Oneal (Robin & Donny Oneal);
Phone: 843 917-4511
Email: Hagatha819(at )aol.com (Milicent)
Rainbowarrior826(at) aol.com (Donal)
Reservations: Lady Emma verch Howell (Karen Beedy) 2212 E. Lydia Highway, Hartsville, SC 29550 Email: K.beedy(at)hotmail.com Phone Number: 843-861-7853
Directions:
From the South:
Take your best route to Highway 52 south of Society Hill.
Take Hwy. 52 North into Society Hill. In Society Hill, follow Highway 401, NOT Hwy. 52, which bears left. Follow Hwy. 401 straight through Society Hill (Gailey and Lord plant will be on the left as leave Society Hill). Go 7 miles, look for Hwy. 912. Turn LEFT onto Hwy. 912. Follow Hwy. 912 for 8 miles until ends at Hwy. 9. Turn LEFT onto Hwy. 9 and then turn RIGHT onto Ebenezer Rd. (you will see a church and a water tower). Follow Ebenezer Rd. for 3 1/2 miles. Sandy Ridge will be on the RIGHT.
From North of Bennettsville
Take your best route to Hwy. 9 near Pageland/Cheraw.
Take Hwy. 9 East towards Bennettsville. Look for water tower on LEFT of highway before Bennettsville. Turn LEFT onto Ebenezer Rd/water tower turn). Ebenezer United Methodist Church will be on your RIGHT after you turn onto Ebenezer Rd. Follow Ebenezer Rd. for 3 1/2 miles. Sandy Ridge will be on your RIGHT.
Chapter 4: Gypsy Gold by Baron Bardulf
“Well, what do you remember?” Katherine hovered close.
“The woman gave me something to drink in a beat-up old goblet. She said it was a potion that would protect me. I was cautioned to drink it slowly. It had an odd taste, very sweet and bitter at the same time.”
“As soon as I touched the goblet, everything shifted, it all was so clear and transparent… no, that’s not it. It was as if I became transparent. Nothing came from me, it all came through me from somewhere else. I had no fear, no thoughts, and nothing to remember…”
“Everything was revealed to him - I spared him nothing. When I turned up the 'Tower' card, I saw it all - betrayal, torture, disgrace, and death by fire. To his credit, I saw him flinch only once.”
“The infidel would escape - but just barely… I told her where to hide something. If she did so, the old woman would win her freedom before she too died.”
“That’s the last thing I can remember before I woke up here.”
Dulcy’s voice trailed off. “I’ve tried over and over to recall what I said, but I just can’t. The memories keep going through my head like a song. I know the melody, but I can’t remember the lyrics.”
Katherine interrupted gently. "I was thinking about that gold...."
"Yeah, me too. I already know what you're going to say." Dulcinaya smiled sadly. "I know they meant well, but they might as well have filled my purse with rocks. We can't do anything with that gold - it’s worthless. You and I must keep it hidden and never tell a soul. If that wealth became known, every cutthroat in God’s creation would hunt us down."
"Besides, I’m a dirt-poor gypsy. Can you imagine me telling a judge that two strangers that nobody else saw drugged me and then stuffed my purse with ten gold florins?”
“It’s not hard to imagine at all. After he enjoyed a good laugh, the judge would hang the whole Kumpania as thieves." Katherine scowled, as if to recall an odd memory. “I didn’t think of it until now, but there’s one more thing. Elphin told me that when he pulled your face off the table, you opened your eyes for a moment and said one word before passing out again.”
-fin
“The woman gave me something to drink in a beat-up old goblet. She said it was a potion that would protect me. I was cautioned to drink it slowly. It had an odd taste, very sweet and bitter at the same time.”
“As soon as I touched the goblet, everything shifted, it all was so clear and transparent… no, that’s not it. It was as if I became transparent. Nothing came from me, it all came through me from somewhere else. I had no fear, no thoughts, and nothing to remember…”
“Everything was revealed to him - I spared him nothing. When I turned up the 'Tower' card, I saw it all - betrayal, torture, disgrace, and death by fire. To his credit, I saw him flinch only once.”
“The infidel would escape - but just barely… I told her where to hide something. If she did so, the old woman would win her freedom before she too died.”
“That’s the last thing I can remember before I woke up here.”
Dulcy’s voice trailed off. “I’ve tried over and over to recall what I said, but I just can’t. The memories keep going through my head like a song. I know the melody, but I can’t remember the lyrics.”
Katherine interrupted gently. "I was thinking about that gold...."
"Yeah, me too. I already know what you're going to say." Dulcinaya smiled sadly. "I know they meant well, but they might as well have filled my purse with rocks. We can't do anything with that gold - it’s worthless. You and I must keep it hidden and never tell a soul. If that wealth became known, every cutthroat in God’s creation would hunt us down."
"Besides, I’m a dirt-poor gypsy. Can you imagine me telling a judge that two strangers that nobody else saw drugged me and then stuffed my purse with ten gold florins?”
“It’s not hard to imagine at all. After he enjoyed a good laugh, the judge would hang the whole Kumpania as thieves." Katherine scowled, as if to recall an odd memory. “I didn’t think of it until now, but there’s one more thing. Elphin told me that when he pulled your face off the table, you opened your eyes for a moment and said one word before passing out again.” “What did I say?”
“Rosslyn” Katherine eyed Dulcy quizzically. “Got any idea what it means?”
Dulcinaya pondered a moment and shrugged. “No - not a clue.”
Scribal Gauntlet by Rohesia Anven of Thessalonica
Greetings fair populace,
This month a gauntlet is thrown and a challenge issued… of inky and painty proportions! That’s right a scribal challenge…
The scribal challenge will be a two part, scroll blank challenge surrounded around two specific Baronial events, and is an opportunity for anyone to participate scribal arts.
How it works: Yule Toy Tourney, Part 1, is where a “partial scroll blank” turn-in will happen, sometime in the AM. Then later at the event, but before feast and after all points have been tallied, there will be a “scroll swap.” Each scribe will choose a few of someone else’s work to finish before NCBB. Baronial Birthday, Part 2, is the second and final scroll turn-in and where all points will be tallied. The top three winners will also be announced. (Prize TBD)
Categories: Scribe will choose to complete only one of the following categories for each scroll submitted.
1) Calligraphy only (with space/border allowance for illumination or capital AND text spaces left for name, date, event & Crown or Baronage signatures)
2) Illumination only (one, two, three or four sided painted border; with or without use of linework) a. Extra credit: Whitework and/or gilding (white “highlights” on the paint, “gold” used throughout)
3) Linework only (one, two, three or four sided border; inked artwork ready for paints)
Point system:
1) Calligraphy = 2 points
2) Illumination = 1 point; a. Extra credit = 1 point (for both or one, but not each)
3) Linework = 1 point
For example, “Lady Jane” and “Lord John” each bring a scroll to Yule Tourney that has only linework. They each receive 1 point. Then later their scrolls are “swapped” for different ones. “Jane” takes her swapped scroll home and adds the calligraphy while “John” adds an illumination. At NCBB, “Jane” receives 2 points with a grand total of 3 and “John” receives 1 points for a grand total of 2.
This challenge is for anyone in all stages of scribal skill; from the novice to those whom wanted to try but just haven’t put pen to parchment. Will you answer the call? It starts TODAY!
Special Guidelines:
• Please refrain from using the following: “Crayola” type markers or watercolors (with only exception of gouache which is an “opaque watercolor”) for coloring/illumination and felt tip, modern pens or other various markers for completing linework. Calligraphy style “markers” are allowed but discouraged for this competition.
• Regular “office paper” or “printer paper” will not be allowed. Please use art paper meant to handle inks and paints; examples are brands like Canson, Strathmore, Master’s Touch, etc. Key phrases for the type of paper are “vellum”, bristol board, or if it specifies it can handle ink and paints.
• Prepare a lightly penciled 1” border around all sides; this is the margin that will be left blanks so that the scroll recipient can easily mat and frame later.
•On the back of the page pencil in two things; your SCA or modern name and your source. The latter is important for the next scribe to match the script or artwork later.
•You will hopefully not be given your own work at the swap; part of the fun will be to complete someone else’s scroll blank. I will do my best to make sure you don’t! (And no swapping your swapped scrolls back from someone else)
•Extra credit (whitework and/or gilding) is only available to the scribe doing the illuminating/ painting.
•Participation is required; in other words, in order to receive a swapped scroll you must have submitted at least one scroll at Yule Tourney. And in order to maintain and attain a score you must bring the swapped scrolls back to NCBB with an additional category completed.
•Attendance at events is crucial but not 100% necessary. However you will need someone to hand deliver your scrolls at Yule and to deliver finished pieces at NCBB.
•All guidelines are honor based; please adhere to them…please ask questions if you aren’t sure. I wont be turning back scrolls. But if there is a blatant misuse of the materials guidelines above I may exception to this (i.e. crayon colored scroll on printer paper).
•Be creative, do as little or as much art as you want and don’t be afraid to ask questions of your fellow!
Are you not a scribe (or aspiring scribe) but still want to help out? Why not “sponsor” a local scribe by volunteering resources, materials or encouragement! Additonally, prize ideas and/or donations are very welcome! Contact me offlist [arwynn16@gmail.com]
In service to the Dream,
Rohesia Anven of Thessalonica
Nottinghill Coill Baronial MoAS
This month a gauntlet is thrown and a challenge issued… of inky and painty proportions! That’s right a scribal challenge…
The scribal challenge will be a two part, scroll blank challenge surrounded around two specific Baronial events, and is an opportunity for anyone to participate scribal arts.
How it works: Yule Toy Tourney, Part 1, is where a “partial scroll blank” turn-in will happen, sometime in the AM. Then later at the event, but before feast and after all points have been tallied, there will be a “scroll swap.” Each scribe will choose a few of someone else’s work to finish before NCBB. Baronial Birthday, Part 2, is the second and final scroll turn-in and where all points will be tallied. The top three winners will also be announced. (Prize TBD)
Categories: Scribe will choose to complete only one of the following categories for each scroll submitted.
1) Calligraphy only (with space/border allowance for illumination or capital AND text spaces left for name, date, event & Crown or Baronage signatures)
2) Illumination only (one, two, three or four sided painted border; with or without use of linework) a. Extra credit: Whitework and/or gilding (white “highlights” on the paint, “gold” used throughout)
3) Linework only (one, two, three or four sided border; inked artwork ready for paints)
Point system:
1) Calligraphy = 2 points
2) Illumination = 1 point; a. Extra credit = 1 point (for both or one, but not each)
3) Linework = 1 point
For example, “Lady Jane” and “Lord John” each bring a scroll to Yule Tourney that has only linework. They each receive 1 point. Then later their scrolls are “swapped” for different ones. “Jane” takes her swapped scroll home and adds the calligraphy while “John” adds an illumination. At NCBB, “Jane” receives 2 points with a grand total of 3 and “John” receives 1 points for a grand total of 2.
This challenge is for anyone in all stages of scribal skill; from the novice to those whom wanted to try but just haven’t put pen to parchment. Will you answer the call? It starts TODAY!
Special Guidelines:
• Please refrain from using the following: “Crayola” type markers or watercolors (with only exception of gouache which is an “opaque watercolor”) for coloring/illumination and felt tip, modern pens or other various markers for completing linework. Calligraphy style “markers” are allowed but discouraged for this competition.
• Regular “office paper” or “printer paper” will not be allowed. Please use art paper meant to handle inks and paints; examples are brands like Canson, Strathmore, Master’s Touch, etc. Key phrases for the type of paper are “vellum”, bristol board, or if it specifies it can handle ink and paints.
• Prepare a lightly penciled 1” border around all sides; this is the margin that will be left blanks so that the scroll recipient can easily mat and frame later.
•On the back of the page pencil in two things; your SCA or modern name and your source. The latter is important for the next scribe to match the script or artwork later.
•You will hopefully not be given your own work at the swap; part of the fun will be to complete someone else’s scroll blank. I will do my best to make sure you don’t! (And no swapping your swapped scrolls back from someone else)
•Extra credit (whitework and/or gilding) is only available to the scribe doing the illuminating/ painting.
•Participation is required; in other words, in order to receive a swapped scroll you must have submitted at least one scroll at Yule Tourney. And in order to maintain and attain a score you must bring the swapped scrolls back to NCBB with an additional category completed.
•Attendance at events is crucial but not 100% necessary. However you will need someone to hand deliver your scrolls at Yule and to deliver finished pieces at NCBB.
•All guidelines are honor based; please adhere to them…please ask questions if you aren’t sure. I wont be turning back scrolls. But if there is a blatant misuse of the materials guidelines above I may exception to this (i.e. crayon colored scroll on printer paper).
•Be creative, do as little or as much art as you want and don’t be afraid to ask questions of your fellow!
Are you not a scribe (or aspiring scribe) but still want to help out? Why not “sponsor” a local scribe by volunteering resources, materials or encouragement! Additonally, prize ideas and/or donations are very welcome! Contact me offlist [arwynn16@gmail.com]
In service to the Dream,
Rohesia Anven of Thessalonica
Nottinghill Coill Baronial MoAS
Monday, October 25, 2010
Greetings to the Barony from your Very Proud Baron and Baroness!
War of the Wings was a wonderful event, and we were so very happy to have time to spend with all of our friends. We experienced such joy at representing this fine group and words cannot express our gratitude to all the fine gentles who made it happen. Special thanks go out to Lord Brandon for organizing our encampment, and Lady Milicent who pulled the potluck dinner together.Now our thoughts turn to more local events. In November we have Try It Day in the Canton of Brockore Abby. This is a wonderful time to share what you do with friends or family who have perhaps not felt comfortable coming to an event, or to try something new yourself! Relax and avoid the holiday shopping madness!
Yule Toy Tourney is a chance to enjoy and event and get that warm feeling from helping others less fortunate. The toys collected will be distributed by Country Santa, spreading the joy of the season. And to add to our fun, we’ll have an Iron Chef feast featuring the secret ingredient- APPLES!
We look forward to seeing all of you in the coming months.
Geldamar and Etain, Baron and Baroness
Yule Toy Tourney V, December 11
As the leaves change color and fall from the trees, the weather gets colder and the Yuletide Season approaches. It is a time to curl up beside a warm fire on a chilly winter’s night and enjoy the peaceful joy of the season in the company of loved ones. But let us all also remember those who need our help the most at this festive time of year. The Barony of Nottinghill Coill would like all to join us the weekend of December 10th-12th for our annual Yule Toy Tourney and help bring the spirit of Yuletide to needy children in the upstate of South Carolina. Each new, unwrapped toy donated will be hand delivered on Christmas Eve to children who otherwise would not have the opportunity to experience this magical time of the year! The Country Santa has been working many years to give toys to needy children in the upstate. ALL toys will be donated to this most worthy organization! The website for The Country Santa is http://www.countrysanta.org/
Martial Activities: Heavy and Rapier Tourneys will be “gift tourneys”. Each fighter will be given two “gifts”. If you are defeated on the field, your opponent will tell you whom to present the gift to on their behalf. There will be additional gifts at the MoL table so that eliminated fighters can buy back in to the tourney for a $5.00 donation to “Country Santa”. The winner of each tourney will be the last fighter with a gift remaining. Archery Shoot will be a Holiday Themed test of skill and accuracy.
Arts & Sciences Activities: While documentation is not required, extra points will be given if it is included! 1) Best Handmade Toy (does not have to be period) 2) Best Baked Item (breads, cookies, etc.) 3) Best Yuletide Ornament
SITE ENTRY: One new UNwrapped toy per Gentle. For Fighters: one new UNwrapped toy per Fighter, per weapon form. All toy donations will go to “Country Santa” of Pickens County SC.
Lodging: $10.00 per person. This covers lodging for Friday and Saturday Nights in dormitory-style rooms that sleep from 6 to 12 persons. Each room has its own heating/cooling unit and bathroom. Lodging will be limited to the 1st 50 gentles who register, so register early!
Feast: $10.00 per person. As a special treat, Saturday evening, three of the foremost chefs in the Barony will participate in a “Medieval Iron Chef” challenge. Lady Jamila, Lady Milicent, and Captain Nichola will each prepare feast portions using a secret ingredient chosen by Their Excellencies - APPLES. Feast is limited to 80 gentles, so don’t miss out!
Site: Wesleyan Camp, Tabor Building. 125 Bethany Cove Drive, Pickens, SC 29671
Site Restrictions: Site is Dry. No Fire Pits or Open Fires. Smoking in designated areas only. No pets.
Autocrat: Brandon Caiside (Brandon Cassady). PO Box 543, Easley, SC 29641. Phone: (864) 404-6796. Email: bcaiside AT yahoo.com
Reservations: Lady Caitríona inghean Ghiolla Phádraig (Jennifer Dutschke), 308 Earle Rd, Central, SC 29630.
Email: scagreyhound AT yahoo.com.
Make checks payable to: SCA Inc./Barony of Nottinghill Coill
Martial Activities: Heavy and Rapier Tourneys will be “gift tourneys”. Each fighter will be given two “gifts”. If you are defeated on the field, your opponent will tell you whom to present the gift to on their behalf. There will be additional gifts at the MoL table so that eliminated fighters can buy back in to the tourney for a $5.00 donation to “Country Santa”. The winner of each tourney will be the last fighter with a gift remaining. Archery Shoot will be a Holiday Themed test of skill and accuracy.
Arts & Sciences Activities: While documentation is not required, extra points will be given if it is included! 1) Best Handmade Toy (does not have to be period) 2) Best Baked Item (breads, cookies, etc.) 3) Best Yuletide Ornament
SITE ENTRY: One new UNwrapped toy per Gentle. For Fighters: one new UNwrapped toy per Fighter, per weapon form. All toy donations will go to “Country Santa” of Pickens County SC.
Lodging: $10.00 per person. This covers lodging for Friday and Saturday Nights in dormitory-style rooms that sleep from 6 to 12 persons. Each room has its own heating/cooling unit and bathroom. Lodging will be limited to the 1st 50 gentles who register, so register early!
Feast: $10.00 per person. As a special treat, Saturday evening, three of the foremost chefs in the Barony will participate in a “Medieval Iron Chef” challenge. Lady Jamila, Lady Milicent, and Captain Nichola will each prepare feast portions using a secret ingredient chosen by Their Excellencies - APPLES. Feast is limited to 80 gentles, so don’t miss out!
Site: Wesleyan Camp, Tabor Building. 125 Bethany Cove Drive, Pickens, SC 29671
Site Restrictions: Site is Dry. No Fire Pits or Open Fires. Smoking in designated areas only. No pets.
Autocrat: Brandon Caiside (Brandon Cassady). PO Box 543, Easley, SC 29641. Phone: (864) 404-6796. Email: bcaiside AT yahoo.com
Reservations: Lady Caitríona inghean Ghiolla Phádraig (Jennifer Dutschke), 308 Earle Rd, Central, SC 29630.
Email: scagreyhound AT yahoo.com.
Make checks payable to: SCA Inc./Barony of Nottinghill Coill
Dukkering, Chapter Three: Soldier of Fortune by Baron Bardulf
After a candle had been placed in a window, the sound of a carriage could be heard outside. A man and a woman entered and surveyed what was before them. Although they were dressed like commoners, their disguises failed instantly.
He was old and bearded but presented himself with the calm, rock-solid demeanor of a seasoned warrior. He was a man born to command armies, yet there was a sense of earthy humility about him. He expected obedience and devotion, not out of pride, but simply because that was the natural order of things.
Although she too carried the weight of many years, the woman was unlike her companion. The dark skin and eyes bespoke a Turk, or perhaps a Moor. While it was clear that the other four men beheld her with respect and awe, fear was easily seen behind their regard. They took pains never to look her in the eyes.
“Are we alone?”
“Yes Sire - as you have ordered, there are none here but the gypsy woman.”
“Take your men outside. Stay in the shadows, remain unseen and allow no one to enter.”
“Sir Tancred...” The ice in the woman’s voice halted them. “...that doesn’t mean you can kill some unlucky wretch.”
When the door shut, the old man glared at the woman beside him.
“I’ll thank you not to address my men in that way. Tancred’s a fine knight...”
“- and a damned sorry excuse for a monk. Have you forgotten what he did to those poor bastards at Caesarea? They had laid down their weapons and yet he slaughtered them.”
The man shrugged off the reproach and turned his attention to Dulcinaya.
“So that’s her, eh? - that gypsy?”
“Don’t make light of the humble; she is a powerful seer.”
“How did you learn of that knave’s ‘ talents’?”
“I have my own gifts.”
He gave the old woman a look of barely contained disgust. “ I’ve had enough of your foul arts.”
“I didn’t choose to be what I am - and neither did she.”
The man strode across the room and stood before Dulcinaya’ s table.
“Now then…” He placed his fists on the table-board and leaned closer. “ …tell me my future with those cards.”
“Cards?” Dulcy’s eyes opened wide with sudden panic. “Oh, you mean these? Fortune telling?? N-N-Never M’Lord!!! I’ll not do such a loathsome thing! These cards are for clever tricks, idle amusements, games of chance, sleight of hand....”
“There! - you see? Here is your great oracle! This miserable creature has confessed herself to be a fraud. We’ re done here! I’m through with this nonsense.”
“Stop it, Jacques. You're scaring her. She thinks you’re a witch-hunter.”
“Me, a witch-hunter? Of that you must have no fear.” He looked at the older woman with a wry smile. “I’ve already found all the witchcraft I can deal with.”
“Pray, be seated.” The woman took her place at the end of the table while “ Jacques” made a great show of sullen resignation and sat opposite Dulcinaya. “ You must forgive the old dog.” Her voice hinted at irritation. “ He’ s a soldier. Oft-times he forgets that not everyone must jump when he barks.”
The woman’s demeanor shifted. The dark eyes beheld the gypsy with a serious and uncompromising regard. “I now ask for your service…and above all…your trust.”
She reached beneath her cloak and unfastened a leather pouch that hung from a belt.
“NO!” He rose to his feet and bellowed. “ I FORBID IT!!”
“You can’ t stop me. Accept that…”
“You don’t dare…you wretch! Have you forgotten your oath?”
“Spare me the lecture - I’m not one of your acolytes.”
“If you defy me….”
“Even in my defiance I will honor my oath. I pledged you my service - not my obedience! When you spared my life at Antioch, I gave my vow to you. In Jerusalem I accepted the burden that you placed upon me. I have served you like no other.”
“If it’s any comfort to you, you were my last choice.”
“I was your only choice. Only I could bear its touch without going mad. How many of your men paid dearly for that knowledge? I’ ve often marveled at my fate. How can it be that only an infidel woman can hold and possess the object that all of Christendom desires?”
The dark eyes grew cold.
“Mark my words, you fool! You and your knights are too rich, too powerful, and too proud. The whirlwind is coming, Jacques. I can feel it, but I cannot see it! It will soon be upon us and it may already be too late. The gypsy is your only hope.”
The old man looked at the woman. His eyes searched her as one who was grasping for a shred of trust.
“Please believe me.” Her voice softened. “If there were any other way........”
Jacques slowly regained his seat. “May God forgive me for this.”
The woman opened the pouch and produced a well-worn goblet and cruet.
He was old and bearded but presented himself with the calm, rock-solid demeanor of a seasoned warrior. He was a man born to command armies, yet there was a sense of earthy humility about him. He expected obedience and devotion, not out of pride, but simply because that was the natural order of things.
Although she too carried the weight of many years, the woman was unlike her companion. The dark skin and eyes bespoke a Turk, or perhaps a Moor. While it was clear that the other four men beheld her with respect and awe, fear was easily seen behind their regard. They took pains never to look her in the eyes.
“Are we alone?”
“Yes Sire - as you have ordered, there are none here but the gypsy woman.”
“Take your men outside. Stay in the shadows, remain unseen and allow no one to enter.”
“Sir Tancred...” The ice in the woman’s voice halted them. “...that doesn’t mean you can kill some unlucky wretch.”
When the door shut, the old man glared at the woman beside him.
“I’ll thank you not to address my men in that way. Tancred’s a fine knight...”
“- and a damned sorry excuse for a monk. Have you forgotten what he did to those poor bastards at Caesarea? They had laid down their weapons and yet he slaughtered them.”
The man shrugged off the reproach and turned his attention to Dulcinaya.
“So that’s her, eh? - that gypsy?”
“Don’t make light of the humble; she is a powerful seer.”
“How did you learn of that knave’s ‘ talents’?”
“I have my own gifts.”
He gave the old woman a look of barely contained disgust. “ I’ve had enough of your foul arts.”
“I didn’t choose to be what I am - and neither did she.”
The man strode across the room and stood before Dulcinaya’ s table.
“Now then…” He placed his fists on the table-board and leaned closer. “ …tell me my future with those cards.”
“Cards?” Dulcy’s eyes opened wide with sudden panic. “Oh, you mean these? Fortune telling?? N-N-Never M’Lord!!! I’ll not do such a loathsome thing! These cards are for clever tricks, idle amusements, games of chance, sleight of hand....”
“There! - you see? Here is your great oracle! This miserable creature has confessed herself to be a fraud. We’ re done here! I’m through with this nonsense.”
“Stop it, Jacques. You're scaring her. She thinks you’re a witch-hunter.”
“Me, a witch-hunter? Of that you must have no fear.” He looked at the older woman with a wry smile. “I’ve already found all the witchcraft I can deal with.”
“Pray, be seated.” The woman took her place at the end of the table while “ Jacques” made a great show of sullen resignation and sat opposite Dulcinaya. “ You must forgive the old dog.” Her voice hinted at irritation. “ He’ s a soldier. Oft-times he forgets that not everyone must jump when he barks.”
The woman’s demeanor shifted. The dark eyes beheld the gypsy with a serious and uncompromising regard. “I now ask for your service…and above all…your trust.”
She reached beneath her cloak and unfastened a leather pouch that hung from a belt.
“NO!” He rose to his feet and bellowed. “ I FORBID IT!!”
“You can’ t stop me. Accept that…”
“You don’t dare…you wretch! Have you forgotten your oath?”
“Spare me the lecture - I’m not one of your acolytes.”
“If you defy me….”
“Even in my defiance I will honor my oath. I pledged you my service - not my obedience! When you spared my life at Antioch, I gave my vow to you. In Jerusalem I accepted the burden that you placed upon me. I have served you like no other.”
“If it’s any comfort to you, you were my last choice.”
“I was your only choice. Only I could bear its touch without going mad. How many of your men paid dearly for that knowledge? I’ ve often marveled at my fate. How can it be that only an infidel woman can hold and possess the object that all of Christendom desires?”
The dark eyes grew cold.
“Mark my words, you fool! You and your knights are too rich, too powerful, and too proud. The whirlwind is coming, Jacques. I can feel it, but I cannot see it! It will soon be upon us and it may already be too late. The gypsy is your only hope.”
The old man looked at the woman. His eyes searched her as one who was grasping for a shred of trust.
“Please believe me.” Her voice softened. “If there were any other way........”
Jacques slowly regained his seat. “May God forgive me for this.”
The woman opened the pouch and produced a well-worn goblet and cruet.
The Tradition of Medieval Gaelic Storytelling by James Acken
When sitting down to write this article I suddenly remembered the opening credits to Steven Spielberg’s 1985-1987 television series Amazing Stories.
Its first enthralling image showed a group of Neanderthal like humans around a campfire while a storyteller, lit from below by firelight, gesticulated wildly, weaving some truly ‘Amazing Story’.
The image carried all the power and significance of narrative or storytelling. We live by stories. They provide the glue for our culture and act as the backbone of almost every religion that exists. The unique traditions of storytelling can thus often act like a cultural thumbprint.
The word saga, for example, is a Scandinavian term that has its roots in their verb ‘to speak’ and is cognate with our verb ‘to say’. It suggests the oral origin and nature of the Norse and Icelandic sagas, each of which is divided into a number of short chapters not unlike episodes of The Sopranos or Lost and advance the fairly linear story often through multiple generations.
The shape of these large narratives is close enough to our modern novel that students usually find the sagas easier to engage with than Gaelic sgeula or scéalta, even though these latter are only the length of a single chapter of the sagas.
Numerous collections of scéla (and from here on I use the neutral medieval word) have appeared over the last century. Tom P. Cross and Clark H. Slover’s Ancient Irish Tales is robust though slightly archaic in language, while Geoffrey Gantz’s Early Irish Myths and Sagas is a clear modern translation but hardly complete. Myles Dillon’s The Cycles of the Kings is perhaps a better representation of how the medieval Gael would have thought about these tales.
The great difficulty of the scél tradition is that it seems so transparent in translation. Certainly there are odd moments, as when the jealous wife of Mider, one of the Tuatha Dé Danann, transforms his lover-to-be, Etaín, into a giant, musical fly, the water and music from whose wings could heal the sick and sustain warriors better than food; and certainly, the tales make a strange kind of fairy-tale sense, as when Cú Chulainn must perform a number of heroically difficult tasks to win his wife Emer, and then, having fathered a son by a different woman overseas, unknowingly kills him when the boy comes to find his father. Still, there are some moments when the tales present seemingly impossible difficulties for the modern reader.
One example is in the death-tale of the legendary Irish king, Conaire Mór mac Eterscél, entitled Togail Bruidne Dá Derga, or ‘The Destruction of Dá Derga’s Hostel’. The story is simple.
After a long and peaceful reign, Conaire breaks his gessa, the semi-divine taboos set on him at birth, and falls prey to his treacherous foster-brothers who ally themselves with the British king, Ingcél Cáech.
The great confrontation between Conaire and his foster-brothers - a kind of an early Irish Showdown at the O.K. Corral - takes place at one of the great guest-houses in Ireland: the bruiden of Dá Derga.
If the plot is simple, the scél is not. A maddeningly repetitive series of descriptions occupies almost half of the tale - some 24 pages of Gantz’s 51 page translation - wherein Ingcél spies on Conaire’s retinue in the bruiden and describes them to the foster-brothers.
The list of names and increasingly bizarre descriptions, one of which shows Conaire’s otherworldly champion Mac Cécht as a landscape complete with hills, forests and lakes, is so interminable that students invariably skip at least a third of them.
Nevertheless, these descriptions were central to the purpose of the scél. A Gaelic nobleman’s greatness was expressed in his (or her) entourage, and Conaire’s boasted fantastic individuals from every corner of Ireland and Scotland - half of them from the síd, the infamous fairy-mounds. Mac Cécht himself, described as a landscape, is from the síd and thus, when Mac Cécht fights, it is as though the land itself fights for Conaire.
The true power of the Gaelic scéla, though, is in how they mirror our human experiences. Each scél elucidates a single or short series of events where several characters meet. Each of these characters feature in any number of other scéla so that the events of one scél resonate throughout the entire corpus of scéla like ripples in a lake.
Without reading these, it is difficult to really grasp how this works, but the effect is that the more you read, the more significant each little thing becomes. With this in mind the scope of the scél tradition, extending in written form from the earliest Gaelic sources of the seventh century to the present day, collections of oral tradition like Joe MacNeil’s Tales until Dawn: Sgeul gu Latha, cannot but instill awe in the most jaded of us.
Its first enthralling image showed a group of Neanderthal like humans around a campfire while a storyteller, lit from below by firelight, gesticulated wildly, weaving some truly ‘Amazing Story’.
The image carried all the power and significance of narrative or storytelling. We live by stories. They provide the glue for our culture and act as the backbone of almost every religion that exists. The unique traditions of storytelling can thus often act like a cultural thumbprint.
The word saga, for example, is a Scandinavian term that has its roots in their verb ‘to speak’ and is cognate with our verb ‘to say’. It suggests the oral origin and nature of the Norse and Icelandic sagas, each of which is divided into a number of short chapters not unlike episodes of The Sopranos or Lost and advance the fairly linear story often through multiple generations.
The shape of these large narratives is close enough to our modern novel that students usually find the sagas easier to engage with than Gaelic sgeula or scéalta, even though these latter are only the length of a single chapter of the sagas.
Numerous collections of scéla (and from here on I use the neutral medieval word) have appeared over the last century. Tom P. Cross and Clark H. Slover’s Ancient Irish Tales is robust though slightly archaic in language, while Geoffrey Gantz’s Early Irish Myths and Sagas is a clear modern translation but hardly complete. Myles Dillon’s The Cycles of the Kings is perhaps a better representation of how the medieval Gael would have thought about these tales.
The great difficulty of the scél tradition is that it seems so transparent in translation. Certainly there are odd moments, as when the jealous wife of Mider, one of the Tuatha Dé Danann, transforms his lover-to-be, Etaín, into a giant, musical fly, the water and music from whose wings could heal the sick and sustain warriors better than food; and certainly, the tales make a strange kind of fairy-tale sense, as when Cú Chulainn must perform a number of heroically difficult tasks to win his wife Emer, and then, having fathered a son by a different woman overseas, unknowingly kills him when the boy comes to find his father. Still, there are some moments when the tales present seemingly impossible difficulties for the modern reader.
One example is in the death-tale of the legendary Irish king, Conaire Mór mac Eterscél, entitled Togail Bruidne Dá Derga, or ‘The Destruction of Dá Derga’s Hostel’. The story is simple.
After a long and peaceful reign, Conaire breaks his gessa, the semi-divine taboos set on him at birth, and falls prey to his treacherous foster-brothers who ally themselves with the British king, Ingcél Cáech.
The great confrontation between Conaire and his foster-brothers - a kind of an early Irish Showdown at the O.K. Corral - takes place at one of the great guest-houses in Ireland: the bruiden of Dá Derga.
If the plot is simple, the scél is not. A maddeningly repetitive series of descriptions occupies almost half of the tale - some 24 pages of Gantz’s 51 page translation - wherein Ingcél spies on Conaire’s retinue in the bruiden and describes them to the foster-brothers.
The list of names and increasingly bizarre descriptions, one of which shows Conaire’s otherworldly champion Mac Cécht as a landscape complete with hills, forests and lakes, is so interminable that students invariably skip at least a third of them.
Nevertheless, these descriptions were central to the purpose of the scél. A Gaelic nobleman’s greatness was expressed in his (or her) entourage, and Conaire’s boasted fantastic individuals from every corner of Ireland and Scotland - half of them from the síd, the infamous fairy-mounds. Mac Cécht himself, described as a landscape, is from the síd and thus, when Mac Cécht fights, it is as though the land itself fights for Conaire.
The true power of the Gaelic scéla, though, is in how they mirror our human experiences. Each scél elucidates a single or short series of events where several characters meet. Each of these characters feature in any number of other scéla so that the events of one scél resonate throughout the entire corpus of scéla like ripples in a lake.
Without reading these, it is difficult to really grasp how this works, but the effect is that the more you read, the more significant each little thing becomes. With this in mind the scope of the scél tradition, extending in written form from the earliest Gaelic sources of the seventh century to the present day, collections of oral tradition like Joe MacNeil’s Tales until Dawn: Sgeul gu Latha, cannot but instill awe in the most jaded of us.
Fellow Citizens...
First, I want to welcome anyone who would be willing to do an interview or for your own original submissions of A&S works and research for the purpose of sharing here. This section is for YOU, the artisans of our fair Barony!This month I also wanted to take the time to urge all artisans to consider teaching an A&S class (or two or three!) at the upcoming Baronial events; Yule Event and Baronial Birthday. I would like to see people teaching introductory levels classes just as much as advanced. You do not have to be a laurel or considered yourself to be “laurel quality” to teach an A&S class. So let’s get the creative cogs moving and put on those teaching caps. If you need assistance please bug your local Minister’s of A&S or feel free to contact me so I can bug them.
Don’t make me hunt you down! Okay, well just so you know that would actually be fun for me, so don’t tempt me!*
Rohesia Anven of Thessalonica
Baronial MoAS
Scribe, Heavy fighter, Combat & Target Archer, etc.
*Autocrats feel free to contact me as your mercenary for hire in order to find people to teach classes at your event… [slightly evil grin]
Ahoy the Coill!!!
Just wanted to throw something in this edition of The Quill because of a recent conversation on the Merry Rose. For those who aren’t on the Rose, or don’t follow it much, there was recently a discussion about how we as a Society treat newcomers and how we can improve that. One of my biggest pet peeves is people treating newcomers like they have “cooties”, and as was put in one post, “passing them off to the nearest Chatelaine”.
I try to make it clear that in my opinion, everyone who plays this game IS a Chatelaine…
Which brings me to the point of this letter…
I would like to say that in my opinion, this Barony is the most Welcoming group I have ever seen, in my 15 years of playing, in two different Kingdoms now. It makes me feel good to see that there are ALWAYS new people at our events, and there is ALWAYS someone talking about having helped a newcomer recently.
I would like to thank each of the Canton Chatelaines, but it’s just as much every member of every group, as it is the Chatelaines. And THAT is what is going to keep the SCA alive for our children to grow up in, and our grandchildren when it’s their time.
I don’t say thanks enough to everyone for all that they do to make this Barony what it is, and for that I apologize.
But all of you, doing what you all do so well, is what makes my job as Baronial Chatelaine easy.
I look forward to seeing many of you at the Try It Day hosted by Lady Millicent, and hope to see a lot of new faces that day as well!!!
Yours in Service,
BlackJack
Colonial Cup Demo
The Colonial Cup races will be held November 13th this year in Camden, South Carolina. The local groups closest to Camden have been invited by the Colonial Cup to participate in the In-field activities, to include a processional in front of the Grand Stand and a demo of the different activities the SCA has to offer. The Colonial Cup races are very popular and highly publicized so the opportunity for media coverage and promotion is excellent.
There are still some spots that need to be filled for the demo and processional, including heavy and rapier fighters, and those with portable A&S activities. If you would be willing to help with this very important event, please contact Baroness Beatrice von Staufen
baronessbeatriceAThotmail.com
803-646-6441
There are still some spots that need to be filled for the demo and processional, including heavy and rapier fighters, and those with portable A&S activities. If you would be willing to help with this very important event, please contact Baroness Beatrice von Staufen
baronessbeatriceAThotmail.com
803-646-6441
Try It/Newcomers Day
Saturday, November 27, 2010 9 AM to 8 PM
Antioch Recreation Center
2460 Antioch Road, Hartsville, SC 29550
Ever wanted to try a new art or craft? Want to find out more about fighting or archery? Want to learn some new recipes? Want to just get away from all the Turkey Day left overs? Well here’s your chance! Come join us on Saturday, November 27 for Try It Day!
A day filled with hands on classes and marshaled activities. For those new to the SCA it’s a chance to try out different activites and maybe find something you love….For the more experienced, it’s a chance to try something you’ve never done before! And after the day is over, there will be a pot luck feast in the hall! So grab your gear (garb is optional!) and join us…there’s sure to be something for everyone.
If you are interested in teaching a class or sharing your knowledge with others, let us know and we’ll set aside some space and time for you. And for those with a fighting mind, there is ample room for heavy, rapier and archery. ALL levels of interest and skill are welcomed. This would be a real opportunity to talk with those who are skilled in YOUR areas of interest!
Feast will be pot luck! This means many items to choose from, so you get a chance to sample a variety of dishes. The ‘cost’ of feast is a dish that serves about 8 people.
The real bonus to all this??? It’s FREE!!!!!!!!!
For more information or to set up class space please contact:
Lady Milicent Shively
Email:_Hagatha819ATaol.com
OR
Lord Donal Oneal
Email: _RainbowWarior826ATaol.com
Phone: 843-917-4511 (Milicent & Donal)
Directions:
From the North: Take your best route to Highway 15 South Business. Turn right onto Highway 102 (Patrick Highway). Continue for 0.6 miles to the fork in the road and bear right onto Antioch Road. Site will be approximately 4.2 miles on the left. Watch for signs.
From the South: Take your best route to Highway 15 North Business. Turn left onto Highway 102 (Patrick Highway). Continue for 0.6 to the fork in the road and bear right onto Antioch Road. Site will be approximately 4.2 miles on the left. Watch for signs.
Hotels within 15 minutes of site:
Comfort Inn
903 S. 5th Street Hartsville, SC 29550
843-383-0110
Fairfield Inn
200 S. 4th Street Hartsville, SC 29550
843-332-9898
Landmark Inn
1301 S. 4th Street Hartsville, SC 29550
843-332-2611
Antioch Recreation Center
2460 Antioch Road, Hartsville, SC 29550
Ever wanted to try a new art or craft? Want to find out more about fighting or archery? Want to learn some new recipes? Want to just get away from all the Turkey Day left overs? Well here’s your chance! Come join us on Saturday, November 27 for Try It Day!
A day filled with hands on classes and marshaled activities. For those new to the SCA it’s a chance to try out different activites and maybe find something you love….For the more experienced, it’s a chance to try something you’ve never done before! And after the day is over, there will be a pot luck feast in the hall! So grab your gear (garb is optional!) and join us…there’s sure to be something for everyone.
If you are interested in teaching a class or sharing your knowledge with others, let us know and we’ll set aside some space and time for you. And for those with a fighting mind, there is ample room for heavy, rapier and archery. ALL levels of interest and skill are welcomed. This would be a real opportunity to talk with those who are skilled in YOUR areas of interest!
Feast will be pot luck! This means many items to choose from, so you get a chance to sample a variety of dishes. The ‘cost’ of feast is a dish that serves about 8 people.
The real bonus to all this??? It’s FREE!!!!!!!!!
For more information or to set up class space please contact:
Lady Milicent Shively
Email:_Hagatha819ATaol.com
OR
Lord Donal Oneal
Email: _RainbowWarior826ATaol.com
Phone: 843-917-4511 (Milicent & Donal)
Directions:
From the North: Take your best route to Highway 15 South Business. Turn right onto Highway 102 (Patrick Highway). Continue for 0.6 miles to the fork in the road and bear right onto Antioch Road. Site will be approximately 4.2 miles on the left. Watch for signs.
From the South: Take your best route to Highway 15 North Business. Turn left onto Highway 102 (Patrick Highway). Continue for 0.6 to the fork in the road and bear right onto Antioch Road. Site will be approximately 4.2 miles on the left. Watch for signs.
Hotels within 15 minutes of site:
Comfort Inn
903 S. 5th Street Hartsville, SC 29550
843-383-0110
Fairfield Inn
200 S. 4th Street Hartsville, SC 29550
843-332-9898
Landmark Inn
1301 S. 4th Street Hartsville, SC 29550
843-332-2611
Friday, September 24, 2010
The Hector Cycle I: Scél na Trí Mac Duibh Dá Leine
Cú Collchaille Echduine (James Acken)
Once upon a time, there was a man named Dubh Dá Leine who lived in the Islands of Western Scotland. He had three sons .i. Erc, Echbél and Finn Srianmhór. Erc was an excellent sailor and the sea called to him in Winter as in Summer. Echbél was a bard and a judge, who excelled at poetry, jurisprudence and all forms of learning, but he left the islands for the sake of foreign lore in the wide world and was not heard from again. Finn was good with horses and it was from his ability to tame any horse that he got his name Srianmhór: Great Bridle.
Their father’s wife was a jealous woman who was also a powerful poetess and because Dubh Dá Leine’s sons were not hers, she took a great disliking to them. Dubh Dá Leine was a great man for fighting and loved nothing more than standing at the headlands watching for raiding parties of Pictish warriors, as these promised the greatest challenge. Some say that, as he stood watching from the top of Beann Dá Fhíthich on Aídhche Shamhna, the mountain was opened beneath him. There he saw a bright woman among a throng emerge and, watching her closely, followed the host through the country and back into the mountain. As told in Togail Glinn na nGall Uaine, there he performed three great feats in seeking her out and at last won her favor; she gave him the three sons .i. Erc, Echbél and Finn Srianmhór.
After a full year in the mountain, Dubh Dá Leine returned home on the same night he left, but a great jealousy lay on his wife. ‘No welcome before you’ said she. ‘Then welcome these three sons’ said Dubh Dá Leine. ‘No welcome for them indeed but my curse,’ she said. ‘From where have they come?’ ‘From the headlands by the Western sea,’ he answered, ‘and you a mother to them.’ ‘That is not true indeed,’ she said, ‘but the sea shall be mother, wife and daughter to them. It shall be their life and death, for of women is the fortune of a man.’
‘Of whose family are they?’ she asked. ‘They are of your family,’ he answered. ‘That is not true indeed,’ she said. ‘Breacan was their mother’s brother; Airdomain his father, son of Dídomuin, son of Ard; Cindomain Abainn their mother’s messenger. Derrit, Díomra, and Dolbach her three handmaidens.’
‘What are their names?’ She asked. ‘They are nameless save that you name them,’ he answered. ‘That is not true indeed,’ she said, ‘for their mother named them in secret.’ Then she said:
Erc the eldest,
Ocean’s rider,
Riches seeking,
Heavens’ fire,
A fickle journey
A Joyfull lyre,
Loving wonder,
Wandering Erc.
Echbél the salient,
A sage’s psalter
Somber pages,
a steed’s halter,
home departing,
deepest fountain,
Fickle travel,
Touring Echbél.
Then she fell silent. ‘What of the third boy?’ Asked Dub Dá Leine. Then she said:
Finn the youngest
Of youthful hosts
Hungry wolves
Waiting ghosts
Gripping swords
A saddling post
Crooked paths
Biting frost
Finn the youngest ...
‘He has the makings of a horseman,’ she said ‘but will never see sixteen years in these lands.’ ‘That is a bitter curse,’ said his father. ‘That is the least of my curse, for these are not the sons of my house.’
This then was the cause of the jealousy of his wife .i. that he should bring home three boys who were none of hers and for that she cursed them.
This then was the curse laid on the Trí Mhic Dubha Dá Leine in the time of Ninian, apostle to the Southern Picts, and Martin, the soldier-saint: that they should die far from their father’s lands and that each son to the end of seventy-two generations should always die in a land different from that of their birth.
Once upon a time, there was a man named Dubh Dá Leine who lived in the Islands of Western Scotland. He had three sons .i. Erc, Echbél and Finn Srianmhór. Erc was an excellent sailor and the sea called to him in Winter as in Summer. Echbél was a bard and a judge, who excelled at poetry, jurisprudence and all forms of learning, but he left the islands for the sake of foreign lore in the wide world and was not heard from again. Finn was good with horses and it was from his ability to tame any horse that he got his name Srianmhór: Great Bridle.
Their father’s wife was a jealous woman who was also a powerful poetess and because Dubh Dá Leine’s sons were not hers, she took a great disliking to them. Dubh Dá Leine was a great man for fighting and loved nothing more than standing at the headlands watching for raiding parties of Pictish warriors, as these promised the greatest challenge. Some say that, as he stood watching from the top of Beann Dá Fhíthich on Aídhche Shamhna, the mountain was opened beneath him. There he saw a bright woman among a throng emerge and, watching her closely, followed the host through the country and back into the mountain. As told in Togail Glinn na nGall Uaine, there he performed three great feats in seeking her out and at last won her favor; she gave him the three sons .i. Erc, Echbél and Finn Srianmhór.
After a full year in the mountain, Dubh Dá Leine returned home on the same night he left, but a great jealousy lay on his wife. ‘No welcome before you’ said she. ‘Then welcome these three sons’ said Dubh Dá Leine. ‘No welcome for them indeed but my curse,’ she said. ‘From where have they come?’ ‘From the headlands by the Western sea,’ he answered, ‘and you a mother to them.’ ‘That is not true indeed,’ she said, ‘but the sea shall be mother, wife and daughter to them. It shall be their life and death, for of women is the fortune of a man.’
‘Of whose family are they?’ she asked. ‘They are of your family,’ he answered. ‘That is not true indeed,’ she said. ‘Breacan was their mother’s brother; Airdomain his father, son of Dídomuin, son of Ard; Cindomain Abainn their mother’s messenger. Derrit, Díomra, and Dolbach her three handmaidens.’
‘What are their names?’ She asked. ‘They are nameless save that you name them,’ he answered. ‘That is not true indeed,’ she said, ‘for their mother named them in secret.’ Then she said:
Erc the eldest,
Ocean’s rider,
Riches seeking,
Heavens’ fire,
A fickle journey
A Joyfull lyre,
Loving wonder,
Wandering Erc.
Echbél the salient,
A sage’s psalter
Somber pages,
a steed’s halter,
home departing,
deepest fountain,
Fickle travel,
Touring Echbél.
Then she fell silent. ‘What of the third boy?’ Asked Dub Dá Leine. Then she said:
Finn the youngest
Of youthful hosts
Hungry wolves
Waiting ghosts
Gripping swords
A saddling post
Crooked paths
Biting frost
Finn the youngest ...
‘He has the makings of a horseman,’ she said ‘but will never see sixteen years in these lands.’ ‘That is a bitter curse,’ said his father. ‘That is the least of my curse, for these are not the sons of my house.’
This then was the cause of the jealousy of his wife .i. that he should bring home three boys who were none of hers and for that she cursed them.
This then was the curse laid on the Trí Mhic Dubha Dá Leine in the time of Ninian, apostle to the Southern Picts, and Martin, the soldier-saint: that they should die far from their father’s lands and that each son to the end of seventy-two generations should always die in a land different from that of their birth.
Luminaries Illuminated: Mili's Story
Come pull up a seat and join me here by the fire. I am Lady Milicent Shiveley and I would tell you the story of my one true love. It all began with the death of my mother when I was but a child. After her death I was raised by my step-father, who was a vile, vile man. Upon my reaching the age of 16, he decided it was time for him to take a new wife and I was to be it. I would have none of it as I detested the man, for he was cruel and a drunk. One dark night, I packed what I could carry and left his house to never look back. Thus began my journey into the world alone.
For the first few weeks after I left my step-father’s home it felt as though the rain would never end. My body ached for the comfort of a bed and a warm hearth to rest my weary feet upon. As a runaway with limited funds, I tended to sleep in abandoned barns and an under an occasional tree. Ever careful of strangers, I shied away from everyone in my quest to reach the Abbey. But one morn there was a loud crash, followed by deep laughter that roused me from sleep. I awoke to a giant of man lying at my feet. Seeing my sudden alarm, he arose and quickly introduced himself, “Please do not be alarmed, I am Jean-Claude de Lyon and mean you no harm.” He spoke with great polish and a charm that immediately set me at ease. Though barely of age, he proved himself well read and worldly. Through many conversations shared that day, I learned he too was searching for a place to call home. As fate would have it, we became traveling companions and with time, great friends.
After several months on the road and many misadventures, we finally reached Brockore Abbey. Gaining permission from the monks to settle just outside the walls of the Abbey, Jean-Claude and I built small huts for each of us. Life became very routine and we earned our keep. Jean-Claude hunted and did repairs with-in the Abbey. In return the monks taught him his letters and other knowledge, the likes of which only the wealthy received at University. As a female, I was not allowed within the walls of the Abbey, but I earned my keep and a small garden spot by cooking and sewing for the monks. Though not the luxury life I grew up with, it was a good life and one I have grown to cherish.
Winter passed and with it came the long days of spring. At the Abbey, spring meant cleaning everything, starting the summer gardens and the visits of many travelers and singing troupes making their way to the city. On one particular day, I was weeding my garden when I noticed a stranger staring at me over the gate. He spoke not a word, just stood and watched as I worked. I glanced up often intending to speak but each time I caught his eyes, it was as if I were struck dumb, unable to speak. Still he stood there not saying a word, merely smiling more and more each time our eyes met. Then I looked up and he was gone. My heart felt as though it had left my body and shattered into a million parts. Scolding myself heartily for such silly feelings, I rose and went inside to clean up and make myself a wee meal, all the time thinking on this stranger and who he was. I saw him often the next few days working at the Abbey, in the small village down the way, and oft times in the company of Jean-Claude. But never did I speak to him; surely he must have thought I was the village idiot!
And then, he was standing at my door! Again, I was speechless, but with a smile he said, “M’Lady, I am Donal Oneal and I shall call upon you this evening. I would be greatly pleased is you would join me for a stroll into the village.” I could only nod as he took my hand, kissed it and walked away still smiling. Once he was out the gate, my mind began to race and I was as flustered as a school girl. But I was ready at the appointed time and gladly took his arm as we strolled into the village. Listening as he spoke of his life, all I could think was how lucky I was to be in the company of such an exception man. He was beautiful to me with his dark hair and greying beard; I had to stop myself from drowning in his blue eyes. It was at the moment I knew I was hopelessly in love with a man that I didn’t even know! It was such a heady feeling that I didn’t bother to consider what exactly that meant or even what his intentions might have been.
From that day forward we spent a great deal of time together talking while strolling the village. I found myself falling more and more in love with the man, never thinking of what that truly meant. As Spring turned Summer and melted in Fall, our relationship blossomed and moved forward. By mid-fall night time found him quietly entering my home and staying until just before day break. Never would he enter the house before dark as he guarded my reputation with great care. We didn’t speak of marriage nor of how long he would stay, as we both knew he was a wonderer and staying put was not in his soul. And to my great joy, he chose to spend the winter months there with me as well. It was a time of great pleasure and joy for me. Someone to share my entire world with, something I had never had. And he loved me! Loved ME! The plain little runaway who had nothing to offer but her heart and her home. I felt like a queen and the future didn’t matter.
Spring came once more and the wonderlust in Donal began to grow. I saw it and knew what the outcome would be. I could see it in his eyes the day he came to say good-bye. Once more I was speechless and knew that I would never find another man such as he. He promised to return with the winter and I could only hope he spoke truthfully to me. The days after he left was as empty as my heart. The warm and love filled home became just a house. The days I had spent with him became a blur – nothing much seemed to matter anymore. The Summer heat was oppressive but not nearly as much as the winter that had sprung to life within my soul.
And suddenly winter was upon us once more. The outside cold began to match that which had taken hold of my heart. One evening I cleared dishes from a meager meal and readied myself for bed. Not really caring if the fire in the hearth would make it through the night, I crawled into my lonely bed almost hoping to never awaken again. Dreams of my Donal plagued me that night more than the day he left. The tears flowed like wine and the ache within my soul was such a physical pain that I cried out until sleep and exhaustion overtook me. Daybreak came and slowly I awoke to the smell of hot tea and soft noises with my house. There was a familiarity I felt but could not explain as I struggled to open my eyes to see if this was yet another taunting cruel dream. I felt the brush a hand upon my face and knew it was my Donal come back to me. I opened my eyes and there he was. He had returned just as he had promised, returned with the winter!
That was well over 25 years ago. We have never married and most likely never will. We have loved and laughed and shared so many years together and I still get lost in his eyes. But this I know for certain, when the snows begin to fall and winter wraps it’s icy hand round the earth, my Donal will return to me just as he did that first winter.
by Lady Milicent Shiveley
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Easy Fabric Batik by Rohesia Anven of Thessalonica
Greetings,
A while ago I stumbled upon an art how-to “Easy Fabric Batik” by Dick Blick and am reviving it from my archives for this month’s article. It’s short, sweet and best of all it is kid friendly! There is no use of hot wax and is fun for kids (of all ages) to participate in. I tried it myself and the final product will be with me at War of the Wings. Follow the link below (which requires Adobe reader) and follow the very easy instructions. One note to keep in mind is that they call for a small class size amount of materials, which may be great if you wish to use this at an event, demo or A&S day activity.
In service,
A while ago I stumbled upon an art how-to “Easy Fabric Batik” by Dick Blick and am reviving it from my archives for this month’s article. It’s short, sweet and best of all it is kid friendly! There is no use of hot wax and is fun for kids (of all ages) to participate in. I tried it myself and the final product will be with me at War of the Wings. Follow the link below (which requires Adobe reader) and follow the very easy instructions. One note to keep in mind is that they call for a small class size amount of materials, which may be great if you wish to use this at an event, demo or A&S day activity.
I ran into some minor issues but for the most part it took minimal effort to create a really pretty final product. Keep your design simple and go and have some artsy fun! I have included an image with my try.
Left side is with the glue lines and the right is the paint applied once the glue dried.
In service,
Rohesia Anven of Thessalonica
arwynn16[at]gmail[dot]com
https://sites.google.com/site/byzantinetimetraveller/
Dukkering, Chapter Two: The Gypsy Trap by Baron Bardulf
Life would slow down after All Hallows Day. The harvest was done and the farmers had plenty of idle time and idle money. On a cold night, they would find their way into the tavern. The lure of a warm fire, the company of friends and perhaps some spiced wine would prove irresistible.
Dulcy usually set herself up in the fire-side corner of the public room. An azure tablecloth, two borrowed candles and some scattered herbs would set the stage. There she would hold court like a ragged gypsy mage-queen.
In that corner, magic reigned and a ha’penny or other petty coin would buy a peek at whatever the future held. While a palm reading was best for some queries, the cards were Dulcinaya’s favorite.
Theatrics were the enchantment of the game. Each card was revealed slowly and teasingly. The turn of a card brought forth a look of grave concern, feigned shock, or perhaps surprised delight. The secret to dukkering was to answer each question with yet another question. Thus a heart’s desire would be laid bare. When a few more cards were shown, there would be a raised eyebrow, a knowing glance, or perhaps a conspiratorial wink and a sly smile. Whispering a vague prophecy somehow made it all seem true.
However, this Sabbath’s Eve had been a wretchedly slow night, and there was naught but three pence in her purse to show for it.
It was near closing time. A few farmers argued drunkenly as to what next year’s market would bring. Off in the other corner there were four strangers who drank and kept mostly to themselves. One could overhear the usual debate concerning the vagaries of gambling, the fickleness of women, or the merits of one horse over another. By the look of them, they were likely nothing more than sell-swords.
“Tis Sabbath Eve, gentlemen, and midnight is upon us - we must bid all a good night.” The serving wench made her usual announcement to no one in particular. The farmers downed the last of their grog and ale while gathering their cloaks. The four in the corner didn’t so much as lift their cups. The wench went over to their table. “There’s an inn less than a league north of here. I’m sure you gentlemen will find a night’s rest there.” They kept their seats and said nothing as the last of the farmers left the tavern. “Surely you'll not break the Sabbath? There’ll be hell to pay if the Vicar finds out that you were sitting here with an ale in your hand past midnight.”
“What about the gypsy?” One of the men queried.
“I let her stay because she helps me clean up this rat-hole tavern. Now out with all of you! None of you look like the sort who will sweep floors.”
“Sit down and be silent, woman.”
“I’ve no patience for your nonsense. I’ve got work to do. Now get out!”
The man stood up and towered over the wench. “That wasn’t a suggestion.”
He turned to the other three and gave orders…”You guard the door - and keep the gypsy in her seat. Search the larder and kitchen - make sure no one else is here.”
The brute held the trembling woman's face before his.
"Leave this place, tell no one what you have seen, and do not return until sunrise. If you disobey, the gypsy..." He glanced in Dulcinaya's direction. "...will be found feeding the crows in a field somewhere. Do you understand?"
The wench gave a terrified nod and fled the tavern.
"Give the signal that it's safe to enter."
By Baron Bardulf
Dulcy usually set herself up in the fire-side corner of the public room. An azure tablecloth, two borrowed candles and some scattered herbs would set the stage. There she would hold court like a ragged gypsy mage-queen.
In that corner, magic reigned and a ha’penny or other petty coin would buy a peek at whatever the future held. While a palm reading was best for some queries, the cards were Dulcinaya’s favorite.
Theatrics were the enchantment of the game. Each card was revealed slowly and teasingly. The turn of a card brought forth a look of grave concern, feigned shock, or perhaps surprised delight. The secret to dukkering was to answer each question with yet another question. Thus a heart’s desire would be laid bare. When a few more cards were shown, there would be a raised eyebrow, a knowing glance, or perhaps a conspiratorial wink and a sly smile. Whispering a vague prophecy somehow made it all seem true.
However, this Sabbath’s Eve had been a wretchedly slow night, and there was naught but three pence in her purse to show for it.
It was near closing time. A few farmers argued drunkenly as to what next year’s market would bring. Off in the other corner there were four strangers who drank and kept mostly to themselves. One could overhear the usual debate concerning the vagaries of gambling, the fickleness of women, or the merits of one horse over another. By the look of them, they were likely nothing more than sell-swords.
“Tis Sabbath Eve, gentlemen, and midnight is upon us - we must bid all a good night.” The serving wench made her usual announcement to no one in particular. The farmers downed the last of their grog and ale while gathering their cloaks. The four in the corner didn’t so much as lift their cups. The wench went over to their table. “There’s an inn less than a league north of here. I’m sure you gentlemen will find a night’s rest there.” They kept their seats and said nothing as the last of the farmers left the tavern. “Surely you'll not break the Sabbath? There’ll be hell to pay if the Vicar finds out that you were sitting here with an ale in your hand past midnight.”
“What about the gypsy?” One of the men queried.
“I let her stay because she helps me clean up this rat-hole tavern. Now out with all of you! None of you look like the sort who will sweep floors.”
“Sit down and be silent, woman.”
“I’ve no patience for your nonsense. I’ve got work to do. Now get out!”
The man stood up and towered over the wench. “That wasn’t a suggestion.”
He turned to the other three and gave orders…”You guard the door - and keep the gypsy in her seat. Search the larder and kitchen - make sure no one else is here.”
The brute held the trembling woman's face before his.
"Leave this place, tell no one what you have seen, and do not return until sunrise. If you disobey, the gypsy..." He glanced in Dulcinaya's direction. "...will be found feeding the crows in a field somewhere. Do you understand?"
The wench gave a terrified nod and fled the tavern.
"Give the signal that it's safe to enter."
By Baron Bardulf
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Recipe by Vincent d'Orleans
I have an excellent recipe for Horsey Dorveys, a most delightful morsel that goes well with any fine chocolate and champagne. The recipe takes a bit of work, but with everyone pitching in, we can pull it off.
It is basically a hand pressed fresh horse pate’, wrapped in a crispy frog skin crepe, then lightly accented with a drizzle of a rich, creamy, snail shell sauce. Yummy. Nothing else like it.
Given how Silvermist hardly drinks, I am sure that she is not in need of her entire liver. In all likelihood, it is conceivably possible that eventually she would somewhat heal from the procedure. I shall need some help holding her down, but if I am not mistaken where the liver is, all should go fairly quickly.
What we will need:
If you get another horse this year, we can make this an annual tradition!
It is basically a hand pressed fresh horse pate’, wrapped in a crispy frog skin crepe, then lightly accented with a drizzle of a rich, creamy, snail shell sauce. Yummy. Nothing else like it.
Given how Silvermist hardly drinks, I am sure that she is not in need of her entire liver. In all likelihood, it is conceivably possible that eventually she would somewhat heal from the procedure. I shall need some help holding her down, but if I am not mistaken where the liver is, all should go fairly quickly.
What we will need:
A wooden meat grinder (to avoid that unpleasant metallic taste)
4-5 large frogs (or toads if none are available)
1 large Vidalia onion
Thick fresh cream
Mushrooms (Dulcy, whatever you have handy)- leftover escargot shells (hang on to any you get between now and then)
- 2 cases Dom Perigon
- French Tarragon (fresh stuff, not the dry store stuff, preferably shipped in that day from Paris)
- Silvermist
- rope
sharp knives- 1-2 horse tranquilizers
- sutures
If you get another horse this year, we can make this an annual tradition!
IMPORTANT! For best results, Silvermist needs to be on a strict diet of oats only for the next few weeks. She will like that.
Truly in Service,
Vincent
Monday, August 30, 2010
Greetings unto the Populace of Nottinghill Coill,
War is fast approaching our northern neighbors!
War of the Wings is October 7-10 and the Populace needs to register by September 15th via ACCEPS for space in the Baronial Encampment.
Our Baronial Land Steward is Captain Brandon Caiside and he can reached at bcaiside@yahoo.com.
The following is from Captain Brandon:
"The easiest way is to register online via ACCEPS (it's basically credit card/debit card processing for SCA Events). You can go to this site http://warofthewings.com/reservations.htm
Once you register (if you use ACCEPS) you will get a confirmation e-mail. Then go to this site
http://www.warofthewings.com/land.htm and register with the land agent for the event. forward your ACCEPS confirmation e-mail to Captain Brandon he can make sure that everyone gets on the list. He just need the names of who is with you, the tent dimensions and if it is a period tent or modern."
I look forward to seeing you all on the Fields! As always, I remain....
in Service to the Dream,
Baron Takeda Yoshinaka
Seneschal, Barony of Nottinghill Coill
War of the Wings is October 7-10 and the Populace needs to register by September 15th via ACCEPS for space in the Baronial Encampment.
Our Baronial Land Steward is Captain Brandon Caiside and he can reached at bcaiside@yahoo.com.
The following is from Captain Brandon:
"The easiest way is to register online via ACCEPS (it's basically credit card/debit card processing for SCA Events). You can go to this site http://warofthewings.com/reservations.htm
Once you register (if you use ACCEPS) you will get a confirmation e-mail. Then go to this site
http://www.warofthewings.com/land.htm and register with the land agent for the event. forward your ACCEPS confirmation e-mail to Captain Brandon he can make sure that everyone gets on the list. He just need the names of who is with you, the tent dimensions and if it is a period tent or modern."
I look forward to seeing you all on the Fields! As always, I remain....
in Service to the Dream,
Baron Takeda Yoshinaka
Seneschal, Barony of Nottinghill Coill
Pennsic 2010 Atlantian Royal Court Reports
August 9
Felix del Rey- Order of Chivalry
Angus of Bedford - Order of the Silver Osprey with Award of Arms
Innogen of Clonmel - King's Award of Excellence
Aedan Aylwyn - Award of the Shark's Tooth
Kenji Yoshimoto - Award of the Shark's Tooth
August 12
Glaukos the Athenian - Award of the Shark's Tooth
Thomas Schreiber - Award of the Shark's Tooth
Gardner's Company - Vexillum Atlantiae
The Company of Dragoon Guards - Vexillum Atlantiae
The Atlantian Rapier Army of Pennsic XXXIX - Augmentation of Arms with the suggested form of a unicornate natural seahorse (Spike) in either argent (White) or azure (Blue) to best compliment the arms of the recipient.
Iain mac Donnchaidh - Award of Arms
Tselmeg - Order of the King's Missiliers with Award of Arms
Kel of Ponte Alto - Award of Arms
Henry West - Court Baron
Emma West - Court Baroness
Audrey Brant - Award of Arms
Thomas Brant of Salem - Award of Arms
Caitlin Inghean Fheichin - Order of the Sea Dragon with Award of Arms
Dagmar - Award of Arms
Segehart Leutmericz - Order of the Coral Branch
Vortigern Faber - Order of the White Scarf
Aminah bint al-Megal'lid - Order of the Coral Branch
Elias Forsyth - Award of Arms
Talorgen nepos Wrguist - Order of the Golden Dolphin
Marcellus Capoziello da Napoli - Order of the Golden Dolphin
Alexandra Shipman - Queen's Order of Courtesy
Catalina Riquel de Luna - Queen's Order of Courtesy
Nikulas Akrapillar - Award of Arms
Briana Maclukas - Augmentation of Arms for Companion of the Gilded Portcullis*
Evan da Collaureo - Augmentation of Arms for Companion of the Gilded Portcullis*
Cassandra Arabella Giordani - Augmentation of Arms for Companion of the Gilded Portcullis*
Catalina dell'Acqua - Augmentation of Arms for Companion of the Gilded Portcullis*
Morwenna Trevethan - Order of the Pelican
Erin Lockheart - Award of Arms
Brukland of Anglesey - King's Award of Excellence
*Augmentation of Arms for Companion of the Gilded Porcullis has the suggested form of a Portcullis Or(Gold).
August 13
Lynet Semere - King's Award of Excellence
Brom Midguard - Award of the Shark's Tooth
Joscelin d'Outremer - Award of the Shark's Tooth
House Blackspear - Award of the Shark's Tooth (to the fighting unit as a group)
House Hedgehog - Vexillum Atlantiae
Arnbiorn Bassi Dansson - King's Award of Excellence
Hjoir Gudmundson - Award of Arms
Margharite Mandler - Award of Arms
Bojzena z Osturna - Order of the Golden Dolphin
Felix del Rey- Order of Chivalry
Angus of Bedford - Order of the Silver Osprey with Award of Arms
Innogen of Clonmel - King's Award of Excellence
Aedan Aylwyn - Award of the Shark's Tooth
Kenji Yoshimoto - Award of the Shark's Tooth
August 12
Glaukos the Athenian - Award of the Shark's Tooth
Thomas Schreiber - Award of the Shark's Tooth
Gardner's Company - Vexillum Atlantiae
The Company of Dragoon Guards - Vexillum Atlantiae
The Atlantian Rapier Army of Pennsic XXXIX - Augmentation of Arms with the suggested form of a unicornate natural seahorse (Spike) in either argent (White) or azure (Blue) to best compliment the arms of the recipient.
Iain mac Donnchaidh - Award of Arms
Tselmeg - Order of the King's Missiliers with Award of Arms
Kel of Ponte Alto - Award of Arms
Henry West - Court Baron
Emma West - Court Baroness
Audrey Brant - Award of Arms
Thomas Brant of Salem - Award of Arms
Caitlin Inghean Fheichin - Order of the Sea Dragon with Award of Arms
Dagmar - Award of Arms
Segehart Leutmericz - Order of the Coral Branch
Vortigern Faber - Order of the White Scarf
Aminah bint al-Megal'lid - Order of the Coral Branch
Elias Forsyth - Award of Arms
Talorgen nepos Wrguist - Order of the Golden Dolphin
Marcellus Capoziello da Napoli - Order of the Golden Dolphin
Alexandra Shipman - Queen's Order of Courtesy
Catalina Riquel de Luna - Queen's Order of Courtesy
Nikulas Akrapillar - Award of Arms
Briana Maclukas - Augmentation of Arms for Companion of the Gilded Portcullis*
Evan da Collaureo - Augmentation of Arms for Companion of the Gilded Portcullis*
Cassandra Arabella Giordani - Augmentation of Arms for Companion of the Gilded Portcullis*
Catalina dell'Acqua - Augmentation of Arms for Companion of the Gilded Portcullis*
Morwenna Trevethan - Order of the Pelican
Erin Lockheart - Award of Arms
Brukland of Anglesey - King's Award of Excellence
*Augmentation of Arms for Companion of the Gilded Porcullis has the suggested form of a Portcullis Or(Gold).
August 13
Lynet Semere - King's Award of Excellence
Brom Midguard - Award of the Shark's Tooth
Joscelin d'Outremer - Award of the Shark's Tooth
House Blackspear - Award of the Shark's Tooth (to the fighting unit as a group)
House Hedgehog - Vexillum Atlantiae
Arnbiorn Bassi Dansson - King's Award of Excellence
Hjoir Gudmundson - Award of Arms
Margharite Mandler - Award of Arms
Bojzena z Osturna - Order of the Golden Dolphin
Scribing - Where to start? by Rohesia Anven of Thessalonica
Greetings to the Populace,
I hope to do a regular Arts & Science block within our lovely Baronial newsletter. My wish is to do a spotlight on a specific art or artist and need your help. Please contact me with someone who has done something A&S related that you feel deserves a little attention. This does not have to be peer level work, in fact I'm hoping to find the people that will be future peers or future leaders in their respective art forms. Any help in finding up and coming artists will be greatly appreciated! As for this Quill I have decided to do a scribal article or tutorial for your reading and scribling pleasure.
I was recently asked if I could give someone a "scribal assignment or homework" so they can start practicing and creating while learning more about scribing. It was a good question and quite frankly it was something I wanted when I started out three years in Trimaris. It is a bit of a tricky question and my start into the scribal world was a doozy (you should ask me about it some time!) but what I have learned is that my advice for starting is with illuminated capitals. They can be found in many manuscripts or texts in a wide range of time periods and cultures. It is also a good place to start for both want to be calligraphers and/or illuminators. It can practiced on a scrap piece of paper first for your initial start to learning how to use gouache, gold paint or leaf and how to set up your margins and spacing.
So how are illuminated capitals useful in the SCA scribal world? First, they can provide a simple and elegant one of a kind and original scroll design without dedicating thousands of hours to complete. The scroll blank can be used in a pinch because they are pretty versatile in their application of an award scroll. A combat scribe can calligraphy in the whole word text prior to or at an event if needed. If the scroll is partially blank where there is calligraphy minus the names and dates and are left with blank spaces then it is even easier to accommodate to the needs of the Coronet or Crown at the last minute. They are also relatively simple in nature to create from start to finish so that they are not be too intimidating to attempt for a beginner scribe.
The first step is deciding if you are going to do all the calligraphy for the text or just the illuminated capital. If you are just doing the illuminated capital then you are pretty much free to use what letter of the alphabet you want. Just bear in mind that some letters like X, Y and Z are extremely rare. If you are deciding to scribe the whole text or want to be accommodating in your illumination the next step is to find the award scroll text you are wanting to use and find the first letter.
[Advanced method: You do not necessarily need to use the first letter of the first word in the award text. You can start a few lines and then incorporate the capital in a word later in the line of text.]
Once you figure out what letter you want to illuminate you will need to find a period example. I have provided a few samples with the source text it is located in within this article. Once you find an example you like you can start setting up your margins on the paper you want to use. Depending on the paper you are using you can trace the outline of the capital in pencil using a window for light or a light table. You can either print off the capital or if you practice ddrawing it you can use your sample. Starting out with practicing to free hand draw capitals is a good way to start and easily achievable over time and practice. Also the ability to paint over mistakes is what most people love about illuminating!
[Advanced method: Some period manuscripts show indentations from the styluses they used which is visible underneath the paint and ink. Youcan recreate this by using a hard lead pencil and erasing the markings before you paint or ink in lines.]
Try it out and see what works for you and what works for the materials you have. You will learn what you like or dislike about your paintbrushes, paints and even the type or brand of paper you use. Currently I use Reeves gouache but plan on ordering Windsor & Newton when money allows. I use either Canson or Bristol vellum papers but prefer Pergamenta and use that for special projects. For paint brushes I love Loew-Cornell or Painter's Touch. For calligraphy I am still experimenting and do not have a favorite. However I am currently using the Manuscript pens with the ink cartridges and also use plain nibswith the dip ink method. I hope that this short tutorial will help you but if you have any questions please feel free to email me arwynn16(at)gmail.com.
I hope to do a regular Arts & Science block within our lovely Baronial newsletter. My wish is to do a spotlight on a specific art or artist and need your help. Please contact me with someone who has done something A&S related that you feel deserves a little attention. This does not have to be peer level work, in fact I'm hoping to find the people that will be future peers or future leaders in their respective art forms. Any help in finding up and coming artists will be greatly appreciated! As for this Quill I have decided to do a scribal article or tutorial for your reading and scribling pleasure.
I was recently asked if I could give someone a "scribal assignment or homework" so they can start practicing and creating while learning more about scribing. It was a good question and quite frankly it was something I wanted when I started out three years in Trimaris. It is a bit of a tricky question and my start into the scribal world was a doozy (you should ask me about it some time!) but what I have learned is that my advice for starting is with illuminated capitals. They can be found in many manuscripts or texts in a wide range of time periods and cultures. It is also a good place to start for both want to be calligraphers and/or illuminators. It can practiced on a scrap piece of paper first for your initial start to learning how to use gouache, gold paint or leaf and how to set up your margins and spacing.
So how are illuminated capitals useful in the SCA scribal world? First, they can provide a simple and elegant one of a kind and original scroll design without dedicating thousands of hours to complete. The scroll blank can be used in a pinch because they are pretty versatile in their application of an award scroll. A combat scribe can calligraphy in the whole word text prior to or at an event if needed. If the scroll is partially blank where there is calligraphy minus the names and dates and are left with blank spaces then it is even easier to accommodate to the needs of the Coronet or Crown at the last minute. They are also relatively simple in nature to create from start to finish so that they are not be too intimidating to attempt for a beginner scribe.
The first step is deciding if you are going to do all the calligraphy for the text or just the illuminated capital. If you are just doing the illuminated capital then you are pretty much free to use what letter of the alphabet you want. Just bear in mind that some letters like X, Y and Z are extremely rare. If you are deciding to scribe the whole text or want to be accommodating in your illumination the next step is to find the award scroll text you are wanting to use and find the first letter.
[Advanced method: You do not necessarily need to use the first letter of the first word in the award text. You can start a few lines and then incorporate the capital in a word later in the line of text.]
Once you figure out what letter you want to illuminate you will need to find a period example. I have provided a few samples with the source text it is located in within this article. Once you find an example you like you can start setting up your margins on the paper you want to use. Depending on the paper you are using you can trace the outline of the capital in pencil using a window for light or a light table. You can either print off the capital or if you practice ddrawing it you can use your sample. Starting out with practicing to free hand draw capitals is a good way to start and easily achievable over time and practice. Also the ability to paint over mistakes is what most people love about illuminating!
[Advanced method: Some period manuscripts show indentations from the styluses they used which is visible underneath the paint and ink. Youcan recreate this by using a hard lead pencil and erasing the markings before you paint or ink in lines.]
 |
| figure 1 |
Once you have marked the outline you can either begin to scribe the text wording if you choose to do so. If not then it is time use the gold paint or gold leaf to fill in the letter. Keep in mind that the letters in red or blue ink and sometimes other colors usually accompanied by flourishes are called historiated capitals. Here (figure 1) is the difference between the two; on the left is a historiated capital and the other is illuminated. Either one will suffice just bear in mind what style you are going with and stick to that method throughout the artwork. For example, a historiated capital is usually red and blue ink and the same colors used for the flourishes within the document with no additional artwork as it is seen with a manuscript with an illuminated capital.
 |
| figure 2 |
The next step is to color in the rest of the illuminated capital. Most of the time the letter was surrounded by a "box" of color and then highlighted markings were added on top. The common mistake I see people make when using gouache is that the paint is too transparent,so when they try to paint the highlighted florals they do not show up. Illuminated capital exercises are a good way to practice getting the right consistencies. If the color is too washed then it will resemble a lot like watercolor in a traditional sense. But if you take a good look at what period example you are using you can see if that technique was used or not. Most of time as is the case with illuminated capitals the paint was "thicker". See my example (figure 2) where I have used too much water and the gouache is too thin versus the right consistency needed for this style of illumination.
Try it out and see what works for you and what works for the materials you have. You will learn what you like or dislike about your paintbrushes, paints and even the type or brand of paper you use. Currently I use Reeves gouache but plan on ordering Windsor & Newton when money allows. I use either Canson or Bristol vellum papers but prefer Pergamenta and use that for special projects. For paint brushes I love Loew-Cornell or Painter's Touch. For calligraphy I am still experimenting and do not have a favorite. However I am currently using the Manuscript pens with the ink cartridges and also use plain nibswith the dip ink method. I hope that this short tutorial will help you but if you have any questions please feel free to email me arwynn16(at)gmail.com. 
In Service, Rohesia Anven of Thessalonica
Nottinghill Coill MoAS (warrant is in the mail!)
Canton of Cyddlain Downs
Sources
:Bodleian Library, University of Oxford
MS. Don. b. 5, fol. 263r (Detail)
MS. Bywater adds. 2, fol. 64v (Detail)
Kings College, Cambridge
Illuminated Capital 'R' on a Royal Licence of Richard II, 1393 (WEL/19)
Paulus Swaen old Map auction and galleries
Anonymous, Manuscript leaf with 2-line illuminated capital
Bardic Arts: Songwriting by Vincent d'Orleans
To Not Be Here (Haigen's Song)
I can still remember before I was born
Angels sat beside me on a summer morn
Though it now is cloudy, somewhere I recall
They told me I could choose to be anyone at all.
I looked out from the heavens as far as I could see
At all the many wonders, so much I could be
Would I be the wisest, richest, or a knight
Or find a world of treasure of another kind.
I must have looked forever and could not make a choice
Until I heard the whisper of a single voice
Singing soft and sweetly beside a gentle stream
I took it for a calling, what else could it mean?
This is my decision, it is very clear
I will have the simple, take my comfort there
I'll not be a warrior, I'll not be a king
Give me words and music, I will gladly sing.
When I am uncertain, when I am unsure
I try to remember what I bargained for
I could have had it easy, life without a care,
But it would not have suited me to not be here.
I can still remember before I was born
Angels sat beside me on a summer morn
Though it now is cloudy, somewhere I recall
They told me I could choose to be anyone at all.
I looked out from the heavens as far as I could see
At all the many wonders, so much I could be
Would I be the wisest, richest, or a knight
Or find a world of treasure of another kind.
I must have looked forever and could not make a choice
Until I heard the whisper of a single voice
Singing soft and sweetly beside a gentle stream
I took it for a calling, what else could it mean?
This is my decision, it is very clear
I will have the simple, take my comfort there
I'll not be a warrior, I'll not be a king
Give me words and music, I will gladly sing.
When I am uncertain, when I am unsure
I try to remember what I bargained for
I could have had it easy, life without a care,
But it would not have suited me to not be here.
YULE TOY TOURNEY V
As the leaves change color and fall from the trees, the weather gets colder and the Yuletide Season approaches. It is a time to curl up beside a warm fire on a chilly winter’s night and enjoy the peaceful joy of the season in the company of loved ones. But let us all also remember those who need our help the most at this festive time of year. The Barony of Nottinghill Coill would like all to join us for our annual Yule Toy Tourney and help bring the spirit of Yuletide to needy children in the upstate of South Carolina. Each new, unwrapped toy donated will be hand delivered on Christmas Eve to children who otherwise would not have the opportunity to experience this magical time of the year!
The Country Santa has been working many years to give toys to needy children in the upstate. ALL toys will be donated to this most worthy organization! The website for The Country Santa is http://www.countrysanta.org/
Martial Activities:
Heavy and Rapier Tourneys will be “gift tourneys”. Each fighter will be given two “gifts”. If you are defeated on the field, your opponent will tell you whom to present the gift to on their behalf. There will be additional gifts at the MoL table so that eliminated fighters can buy back in to the tourney for a $5.00 donation to “Country Santa”. The winner of each tourney will be the last fighter with a gift remaining.
Archery Shoot will be a Holiday Themed test of skill and accuracy.
Arts & Sciences Activities:
1) Best Handmade Toy (does not have to be period)
2) Best Baked Item (breads, cookies, etc.)
3) Best Yuletide Ornament
While documentation is not required, extra points will be given if it is included!
Cost:
SITE ENTRY: One new UNwrapped toy per Gentle. For Fighters: one new UNwrapped toy per Fighter, per weapon form. All toy donations will go to “Country Santa” of Pickens County SC.
Lodging: $10.00 per person. This covers lodging for Friday and Saturday Nights in dormitory-style rooms that sleep from 6 to 12 persons. Each room has its own heating/cooling unit and bathroom. Lodging will be limited to the 1st 50 gentles who register, so register early!
Feast: $10.00 per person. As a special treat, Saturday evening, three of the foremost chefs in the Barony will participate in a “Medieval Iron Chef” challenge. Lady Jamila, Lady Milicent, and Captain Nichola will each prepare feast portions using a secret ingredient to be chosen by Their Excellencies and announced during Baronial Court at War of the Wings. Feast is limited to 80 gentles, so don’t miss out!
Site: Wesleyan Camp, Tabor Building. 125 Bethany Cove Drive, Pickens, SC 29671
Site Restrictions: Site is Dry. No Fire Pits or Open Fires. Smoking in designated areas only. No pets.
Autocrat: Brandon Caiside (Brandon Cassady). PO Box 543, Easley, SC 29641. Phone: (864) 404-6796. Email: bcaiside AT yahoo.com
The Country Santa has been working many years to give toys to needy children in the upstate. ALL toys will be donated to this most worthy organization! The website for The Country Santa is http://www.countrysanta.org/
Martial Activities:
Heavy and Rapier Tourneys will be “gift tourneys”. Each fighter will be given two “gifts”. If you are defeated on the field, your opponent will tell you whom to present the gift to on their behalf. There will be additional gifts at the MoL table so that eliminated fighters can buy back in to the tourney for a $5.00 donation to “Country Santa”. The winner of each tourney will be the last fighter with a gift remaining.
Archery Shoot will be a Holiday Themed test of skill and accuracy.
Arts & Sciences Activities:
1) Best Handmade Toy (does not have to be period)
2) Best Baked Item (breads, cookies, etc.)
3) Best Yuletide Ornament
While documentation is not required, extra points will be given if it is included!
Cost:
SITE ENTRY: One new UNwrapped toy per Gentle. For Fighters: one new UNwrapped toy per Fighter, per weapon form. All toy donations will go to “Country Santa” of Pickens County SC.
Lodging: $10.00 per person. This covers lodging for Friday and Saturday Nights in dormitory-style rooms that sleep from 6 to 12 persons. Each room has its own heating/cooling unit and bathroom. Lodging will be limited to the 1st 50 gentles who register, so register early!
Feast: $10.00 per person. As a special treat, Saturday evening, three of the foremost chefs in the Barony will participate in a “Medieval Iron Chef” challenge. Lady Jamila, Lady Milicent, and Captain Nichola will each prepare feast portions using a secret ingredient to be chosen by Their Excellencies and announced during Baronial Court at War of the Wings. Feast is limited to 80 gentles, so don’t miss out!
Site: Wesleyan Camp, Tabor Building. 125 Bethany Cove Drive, Pickens, SC 29671
Site Restrictions: Site is Dry. No Fire Pits or Open Fires. Smoking in designated areas only. No pets.
Autocrat: Brandon Caiside (Brandon Cassady). PO Box 543, Easley, SC 29641. Phone: (864) 404-6796. Email: bcaiside AT yahoo.com
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