Mermaid`s Tales Number One-Use this one

Winter
Edition
(Hey, it’s False Isle, what can I say?)
the
Mermaid’s
Tales
Number One
In this issue:
Seneshale’s Message
Page 3
Owyn takes an editorial we
Page 4
News
HL Sabine de Provence
Seneschal
HL Rhyannan of Pembroke Castle
Deputy
Lady Effie Little
Arts and Science
Deputy
Deputy
Bard
Lady Constance de Montbard
HL Alicia le Wilfulle
m’lord Thormot Mac Otter of Rushen
Lady Constance de Montbard
Exchequer
Lord Edward the Merchant
Master of Stables HL Rory Woulfe of Kildare
Deputy
Lord Thorvald “Toothspitter” Ivarsson
Chronicler
Deputy
Webmaster
HL Owyn of Clan Frog
Lady Svanna of the Wilde Woode
Lord Hermannus der Mensche
Chatelaine
Lady Tita the Wanderer
Herald
HL Saeunn Hrafnsdottir
Deputy
Deputy
Vox Herald
Chirurgeon
(in-process)
HL Alicia le Wilfulle
m’lady Aline de Bruges
Lady Calandra De Silva
Lady Elvgiva Rolandsdottir
Mermaid’s
Mermaid’s—A peasant’s POV
Just a Picnic
WinterFeast
Gerhard Kendal
His Lordship Rory Woulfe of Kildare,
GdS, JdL
Apprentice to Sir Baron Gerhard Kendal
Cadet to Don Diarmuid de Rosas,
Instructor False Isle Ecole d'Epee,
Master of Stables to the Shire of False Isle,
Photo by
Her Ladyship Sabine de Provence
Pages 10 & 11
Arts and Sciences
Lady Effie’s Report
Skald of the North
Daughters of the Desert
Mermaid Awash by Svaana
A Tale of Mermaids
Azemar’s Poetry
New Principality Banner
Page 8
Page 9
Page 9
Page 12
Page 14
Page 14
Page 18
Special Interest
Youth Gang
Upcoming Principality events
Know Your Peasants?
Page 12
Page 18
Page 18
Entertainment
Robin of Sherwood—a review
Owyn’s Wish List
Humour
Cover Art
Page 5
Page 6
Page 7
Page 7
Page 16
Page 19
all about you if you will but look
Travel
Stephen and Alicia
Eleanor de Guernsey
Page 15
Page 17
Like Janus, the two-faced God of January, let me take this time to
reflect backward and to cast my eyes forward.
Over the past year False Isle has experienced some significant
changes, some bumps in the road and, as usual, pulled through
with our own natural aplomb and bonhomie.
I begin writing this missive on St. Margeurite Bourgeoys day, being
the 12 day of January. St. Margeurite, like many of us found herself installed in this strange new world far away from friends and
family of the great continent. However she did not let this sad state
dishearten her instead she forged ahead and opened a school in a
ville call Mont Royal. She worked diligently and endured many a
hardship and setback. She chose to include the indigenous people
of this land over much dissent. I take inspiration from this lady
and hope that False Isle will continue to be mutually inclusive,
supportive and a Shire for One and a Shire For all!
The principality is well organized, officers and royals are approachable and accessible and more relevant to those An Tirians residing
North of the 49th parallel. The Shire has contributed monetarily to
the inception of the principality as well as several very notable projects.
The SCA instituted a non-member surcharge for Kingdom sanctioned events of Four gold coins. It has caused some rancor, as well
adding another layer of the ubiquitous paperwork. I encourage anyone with strong feelings against it to contact society officers.
We have another year of splendid events to anticipate. Let us gather
to raise a pint at Winter feast, acquire more knowledge at Ithra,
fend of invaders at Mermaid and give our guests the “royal” treatment at Investiture. Music, and Dance are experiencing a Renaissance in False Isle and I encourage anyone that might be interested
to attend these very enjoyable activities and commend those that
take the time to offer these gatherings.
There has been some changes in officer ship and I would like to
extend my gratitude to those who have served so well and so long
in the past especially Ladyship Rhyannan outgoing Seneschal and
Lordship Grimon de Beaujolais.
Remember that if you have the chance for to travel outside the
Shire you are welcome in any place, such is our renown. Each of us
is an ambassador for this place and all do the Shire proud.
The officers team and I wish to support you all in your Medieval
studies or projects. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have
any suggestions, ideas or problems.
May we continue to gladden each other hearts,
The creation and installation of the Principality of Tir Righ has
been the harbinger of change for the better methinks. This was
evidenced when Their Highness’ Thora and Oak attended Mermaid and handed out 1 ‘Ship and some 13 Shire awards of arms
many of which were extremely overdue. I will bet a Queens ransom
in deniers that there will be more to be granted this year!
Page three
HL Sabine de Provence, AA GDS
Seneschale
Instructor Ecole D'Epee
Cadet to Magister Albert Faulke of Sanford
Shire of False Isle
Tir Righ , An Tir
*Fidelitas cum Permotione
Stoned Ruin
...some editorial comment from Owyn...
Well, there you have it. Finally done. I fell for the second oldest
trick in the book when I began this project. Oh, it will be easy. No
problem. Probably be able to bang it out in a few hours. This isn’t
the first time I’ve fallen for this. Think I’ll ever learn? Probably
not!
You might notice some changes since the days of the “Runestone”.
I’ve never been noted for my ability “to leave well enough alone”, as
my Mother has always said. For as long as I can remember she
has had a plaque on the kitchen wall with the Thoreau different
drummer quote on it. I have followed that drummer all my days.
Which brings me to the welcome that has been extended to me
here in False Isle. Now that I’ve been here for a while, I find
myself pleased that that welcome is as warm today as it was
when I first came Up with Jeff to visit Kelli and squeeze in
an Ithra.
Many years ago Baroness Amanda told me that I was a
lucky man to be surrounded by a group like Clan Frog. She,
of course, was right. At WinterFeast I had the opportunity to
speak to Amanda once more and was very pleased to be able
to tell her that I hadn’t forgotten her words.
Half of Clan Frog now lives in False Isle! ...and I got to say
to Amanda that I feel doubly blessed. Clan Frog and now the
incredible folks of False Isle. Here in SCA heaven, I remain,
Your Servant,
Owyn
With the advent of the Poor Drogo’s Almanac/the Mermaid’s Tales
format, we must say a sad farewell to the “Runestone”. It has
served the Shire well for many years.
Founded by Lady Svaana of the Wilde Woode and then later edited and produced by His Lordship Stephen of Hunmanby it has
been an example of False Isle’s creativity and determination. Although any publication of this nature would be impossible without
the combined efforts of most of the Shire, the bulk of the work and
responsibility falls on the shoulders of the Editor. Both of these
fine gentles have given yeoman service and we offer them our
thanks and praise for their efforts.
I hope to live up to their beginnings. With Drogo and his staff
taking the reins of the monthly publication we here at the Mermaid’s Tales have been able to spend much more energy and time
on the quarterly magazine. It gladdens my heart to see Drogo
find his niche here in False Isle. (Even if he did mistakenly refer
to the Trip to Jerusalem as the Road to Jerusalem. Please understand he’s just a peasant, whether he can read and write or not.
Patience with our inferiors is called for. I’m sure he wont make
that mistake again.)
“the Mermaid’s Tales” is
As for the rest of the contributors to this issue, I find myself absolutely amazed. In my long experience in the newsletter business,
never have I seen such an avalanche of submissions and ideas. As
memory serves getting submissions should be similar to having
teeth removed. Yes, I do know from whence I speak. False Isle once
again proves itself remarkable.
We will always try to respect the rights of artists, photographers
and writers.
Trying to keep these publications free also should have been quite
the chore. A fine egalitarian idea but as with many other things,
a lot tougher in reality than dream. The populace has once again
jumped to the pump and donations have been coming in. Those
supporters have not only helped us provide you with this product,
but have helped ME live out my SCA dream of a colour newsletter.
Thank You. Thank You. Thank You.
Page Four
Disclaimer
a quarterly publication of the Office of the
Chronicler for the Shire of False Isle and does not necessarily
represent SCA opinion. It is not a corporate publication of SCA
Inc. and does not delineate policy.
For now “the Mermaid’s Tales” is provided free for the populace of
False Isle (one per mailing address) and copies are sent to Kingdom and Principality Royals and Chroniclers. (as well as some
of False Isle’s special friends from afar.)
(...but if Johnny Hart actually complains about me using
“Wizard of Id” strips in a freebie paper, made by volunteers,
funded by donations and having a circulation of about 27, well,
life really is too dangerous and we can start our march into the
sea.)
Any errors, omissions or mistakes one might find throughout
this publication have been strategically placed there for your
entertainment and meant simply as an amusement. Collect the
whole set.
Prince Einar Guntharson Graces the Mermaid’s Tournament
Princess Thora Golvik Personifies Grace
Most Chivalrous Archer
Children's Sponsored Archery
John McAndrew
Liam MacConneach,
sponsored by Hilary of Misty
Glen
Heavy
Best Challenge:
Their Highnesses bestowing Awards of Arms on their deserving
subjects Bartholomeus de Crecy, Arianwyn verch Laugharne & Azemar de Lyon. (left to right)
The 6th annual Mermaid’s Tourney at Kent’s Beach was the spectacular event that it has always proved to be in the past. The final
gate count was 221.
The False Isle Order of Precedence took a giant leap forward. The
presence of the first royalty to visit False Isle, the Prince and Princess
of Tir Righ, Einar and Thora made for an exciting Court. Many of
the populace, especially those who tend not to travel, were recognized for their contributions to the dream.
Edward the Merchant;
heralded by Aline DeBruge
Most Ribbons received from the Ladies: Rory Woulfe, who most
honourably gave his prize to
Edward the Merchant for all
his hard work these past 5years
getting his armour together
Ladies' Choice:
Christian d'Artois
Boffer:
Elizabeth the Dragon
Lady's Accolade Brass Rose (Rapier) for most enjoyable fight
Alaria, Cadet to Maestro Guidobaldo
Scavenger Hunt: Adult
Child:
Isabeau
Brendan
The date for next year's Mermaid's Tourney is July 9 - 11, 2004.
Come and see what a False Isle welcome can be.
Come and see what a “moonbag” is.
Many AoA’s were awarded as well as a couple of grants of arms. May
False Isle’s navy grow ever stronger! (See related article on Page Six.)
The Tourney results were as follows:Most Chivalrous Overall
Arts & Sciences
Best Tribute to our Mermaid
Accolade Rapier Winners:
Archery
Overall Winner:
Crossbow Royal Rounds
Running Stag Shoot
Measured String Shoot
Royal Rounds
Flying Wand Shoot
Peg the Parrot
John McAndrew
Eyealbeth, with a lovely dance
Rory Woulfe and Pierce O'Brien
Delwyn verch Ynyr
Mikhail Kurganovic
: personal best of '89'
Kenneth of Shaftsbury
Bartholomeus de Cressy
Delwyn verch Ynyr
: personal best of '95'
Delwyn verch Ynyr
Delwyn verch Ynyr
Page Five
This picture could only be possible at the Mermaid’s Tourney
The Mermaid herself might watch from here.
Mermaid’s Tourney
- a peasant’s POV Dateline August, Kent’s Beach
Owyn, dot Velsh Lord mit eine ship, intended to report to you uf de
tournament held here in False Isle to pay homage to de Mermaid.
However, his report vas zo full uf zuperlatives und praise for de event
und de Ottocrat, dot Velsh Lady mit eine ship, Rhyannan of Pembroke Castle, dat it vas unreadable. Vell, you could read it, but not if
you vere diabetic. Zo ve can fill dis space mit my observations.
Dis vas primarily ein gatheringk of de fighters, gentry, nobililty, und
royalty. Premier amongst dem vere Dere Highnesses Einar und Thora
uf our Principality, Tir Righ. Old friends to False Isle, Gerhard und
Amanda Kendal uf Vestmoreland, bot beingk Lions uf An Tir, vere
dere. DeBaron und Baroness uf Lions Gate, Harold Devin uf
Waltham und Aurora Argentius came too.
Uf course dere vas eine big court. Owyn tells me dot it vas ein uf de
best courts he’s attended. He’s never been to an eric to vatch de
fightink but hast never missed eine court, not even eine schmall von.
By de time it vas over False Isle had eine new member uf de nobility
und more new gentry den I haf fingers.
Dot beauteous Wiking Lady Saeunn Hrafensdottir vast given eine
ship. The navy uf False Isle grows even more powerful. She vas admitted into de Order uf de Goutte de Sang. Membership carries eine
Grant uf Arms und ist avarded by de Crown to dose who haf given
excellent zervice to de Kingdom. Dot grant ist de zecond level uf armigerous rank und thus Nobility.
Svaana uf de Wilde Woode und Thorfin uf Black Point vere called to
court. For de first time in many years dey veren’t feedingk der masses
from de Bear Pit. Dey vere finally given dere Avard of Arms. De
Prince, a typical Wiking varrior, admired Lord Thorfin’s massive
veapons. Lady Svaana beamed.
Elfgiva Rolandsdottir vas avardered her Avard of Arms (AoA) as vell.
Elfgiva und her lord husband, Thorvald “Toothspitter” Ivarsson, are
amongst de founding members uf False Isle. Regrettably, Thorvald
vas sailing afar aboard eine all too real ship on about our country’s
business.
Edward de Merchant und Effie Little, married at eine previous Mermaid tourney, also received dere AoA’s und like all who haf, may
now be referred to as Lord und Lady. Edward and Owyn bote had
firsts at dis event. Lord Edward fought in his first heavy tourney und
Owyn watched his first fight. House Little und Clan Frog are allied
by marriage. Lord Edward ist de first heavy fighter between bote
households! Lady Effie is False Isle’s Mistress uf Arts und Ziences.
Calindra de Silva und Geoffrey uf Mylar vere next. Lady Calindra
almost had to herald her own avard. Lord Geoffrey ist ein schtudent
uf Owyn und probably vhy I vas fired. (I tink Owyn likes Geoffrey
better dan me, but I’m not bitter.) Title und property in de zame year,
not bad. Good tink dey have not yet invented de vord bourgeoisie.
Stephen uf Hunmanby, that multitalented medievalist vust next at
court. With his AoA Lord Stephen joins his wife, Lady Alicia the
Wilfulle, on the list of False Isle’s gentry.
Bartholomeus de Cressey, Arianwen verch Laugharne, und Joshua
are finally inschtalled at Chateau Cressey. Mit dere triple avard,
Lord Bartholomeus, Lady Arianwen und Lord Joshua give Lund a
full set uf AoAs. Even peasants can sharpen dere skills mit dere
bows at dere archery range.
Tita de Wanderer und Hermannus der Mensch , whose energy und
enthusiasm ist unmatched, alzo picked up dere AoA’s. Lady Tita is
our Chatelaine and irrepressible Dance Mistress. Lord Hermanus
ist der Mensch.
Morgan von Drachenfel, after years uf quiet service, vas noticed by
the Prince himself and avarded his AoA on de schpot. Lord Morgan ist not only a cook of note, but ist always to be seen helpingk all
about de site at any event (He vould have made ein great peasant.)
Sadly, our Landsknecht Lord Morgan hast taken ein commission in
Lionsdale to zuit his mundane employment. He promises ve vill
meet again.
Owyn schpoke mit most everyvon mentioned above und zays each
uf dem share eine tingk in common. Vhen de Prince came on der
site, Owyn congratulated him on his vinning Coronet Tourney und
becoming de first Prince uf Tir Righ. He replied, “Oh, I was just
having a good day.” Humility. Royalty dat has ein underztandingk
of humility! Owyn hast taught me dat humility ist dere core uf chivalry und courtesy und honour. You can underschtand none uf dese
mitout underschtanding humility. Power mitout humility leads to
revolting peasants.
If I had vanted to schpoil de punchline I vould haf called dis report
“A Lesson in Humility.” Gerhard und Amanda bote haf been
named Lion uf An Tir. Dis ist ein mark uf favour given once ein
reign to ein individual who embodies de IDEALS uf de Society.
Dey bote said, “Ah, we’re just doin’ stuff we love.” Again mit humility. Vhen it vas suggested to devin und Aurora dat dey should run
for Baron und Baroness uf Lions Gate dey bote paled und zaid “Us?
Who us?” (‘cha) Dey vere de most obvious choice but dey never
efen tought uf demselves as contenders. It ist obfious what de populous uf Lions Gate tought!
Und vhen he schpoke to all de False Islers dat recieved avards dey
all zaid basically de same tingk. “I don’t know why I got this.” Owyn
und I agree dat each uf dese False Islers hast shown why dey vere
found deserving. Quiet service, mithout hope of reward or recognition, for de benefit uf de whole group. You all zhould be wery
proud uf yourselves. I zalut you.
Your peasant,
Drogo, untermensch
Page Six
Just a Picnic
On Thanksgiving weekend, members of the Shire of False Isle
joined together for a day of fun and festivities known as "Just a Picnic", which took place at Kent's Beach, the site of the renowned
"Mermaid's Tourney", autocrated by Aline de Bruges and Lady
Constance de Montbard.
Following the advice of our illustrious soon-to-be-ex-Seneschale,
Rhyannan of Pembroke Castle, we gathered in a cottage upon the
very verge of the beach, there to sate our souls with fine food, music and song, games, and handiwork from stitchery to carding wool;
and especially, with the warmth and comfort of good friends.
Such warmth was well-needed; the skies opened and rained down
upon us for many an hour. The hardiest souls were daunted (and
the shiniest almost rusted!); except for the courageous (and sometimes rather wet) Lord Bartholomeus, who braved the torrential
downpours to maintain an archery site within view of the snug confines of the cabin as well as the covered veranda (so those of us who
were not so brave could admire his prowess with bow and arrow,
and that of other hardy individuals, while yet enjoying the comfort
of our snug cabin).
The Shire's fighters regaled all with epic of deeds done and battles
won, and plans for another day.
There were some, led they say by Sabine and Arianwyn, who when
the rains finally abated, and who were surely afflicted by "cabin fever", tucked up skirts and leggings into belts and tested the theory
that salt water does not freeze. (Perhaps they were right? But what
about bare feet?)
As evening descended, the fragrance of savoury dishes and sizzling
meats welcomed all, as people shared in both the cooking and the
feasting. Quite a number of people remained and celebrated late
into the night before retiring to the several beds in the cabin, awakened rather early by the fragrance of coffee and hot porridge, a
hearty breakfast prepared by Aline, to prepare for packing up.
Winterfeast 2004
~ the Autocrat’s view ~
by Tita the Wanderer, AoA
A wise man once said, “Every Winterfeast has its own distinct flavour
… and this one tasted of HAGGIS!” Well, it wasn’t exactly a wise
man, it was HL McGrimmin, and it wasn’t ‘once’ it was several times,
the Sunday morning after the feast.
But nevertheless, there is wisdom in his words. Every Winterfeast is
different, and this one had several distinguishing features to make it
memorable in the hearts and minds of those who attended.
For the first time, HE Amanda Kendal of Westmoreland graced us
with her presence at Winterfeast. In her honour, HL Rory Woulfe of
Kildare undertook to present False Isle’s populace to her in a Grand
Procession which was enjoyed heartily not only by the participants but
also by Amanda herself. She was grateful for the opportunity to meet
her Shire once again, with many new and familiar faces in attendance.
The Moose Hall, ably decked out by Hermannus and his faithful team
of decorators, was a sight to behold with its false walls, abundant heraldry, and the strikingly elegant suit of armour behind the head table.
One could not help but feel medieval when entering such a grand
hall.
And a fine time was had by all.
Aline de Bruges
Autocrat, "Just a Picnic"
Deputy Herald and Graphic Herald
The feast was prepared by first-time Feast-o-Crat HL Sabine and her
unfailing helpers, then served by a crew of young volunteers who
gamely dressed in garb and addressed all they served as “m’lord” or
“m’lady.” (Anyone else smell recruits, or is that just the Chatelaine in
me taking over?) The food itself was superb, and it was a real treat to
sit and be served, as we nobles too rarely get to indulge in such pleasures.
We had several guests from afar make an arduous journey over land
and sea to join us in our merriment, for which we were most grateful.
Page Seven
con’t on page 8
Arts and
Sciences
WinterFeast
con’t from page 6
Special recognition must be given to Lord Thorvald and Lady Elfgiva,
who were only able to stay in our fair Shire for a number of hours but
still managed to add their special flavour to the celebrations. Great
thanks also to Morgen von Drachenfel, who traveled to False Isle and
then lent his hand to decorating and kitchen work!
After dinner, the evening flew too quickly by us, with so many activities and entertainments that one could scarcely take them all in. Once
again, Lord Edward the Merchant challenged the populace with a storytelling contest, the entries for which kept us amused throughout the
evening.
Congratulations to Adrian of the Grievous Wound and young Owain
for their winning entries. There was also a dance contest sponsored by
myself in a quest to find the most fleet-footed dancer. Unfortunately,
the winner - Wulfwynn of Hartwood – lives out of town, so I can’t
recruit her to our False Isle Dance Troupe!
Speaking of dance, we were treated to several presentations by The
Daughters of the Desert, The False Isle Dancers, and Bashira, a guest
from Insula Magna. We were also treated to music from live bards,
including Thormot, our own Shire Bard, and Stephen of Hunmanby,
Bardic Champion of Tir Righ. In addition, Owain arranged a beautiful medieval carol for two voices, and I was honoured to sing this duet
with him. The talent in our Shire continues to amaze me!
Oh, and somewhere along the way…
…Rory managed to start a war with Lions Gate
…We celebrated Thormot’s birthday
…Sabine became a Journeyman (ask her what for, if you dare)
…House Little made some money to help with the Investiture
…And a good time was had by all!
If I thanked all who had helped, the list would be equal –at least!- to
our False Isle phone list. As is always the case in our Shire, every gentle who attended Winterfeast contributed something to its stunning
success. Though Hermann and I may be the autocrats, every member
of this group has a right to be proud for their part in this wonderful
evening. Three cheers for the inspiring Shire of False Isle, who make
the title of Autocrat a joyous one!
Illiterate?
No, dat hast notingk to do mit de Marital status
your parents enjoyed,
but if you are ein peasant und cannot read
Greetings False Isle,
Well, we have managed to fill the last three months with a variety of
things, but first I would like to congratulate Stephen of Hunmanby
for his Jambe de Lion and Alicia la Willfule for her Goutte de Sang.
Well done.
Our Friday night meetings have been going very well. We had H.L.
Saeunn Hrafnsdottir, H.L. Alicia le Willfule and Aline de Bruges do
a well informed class on Heraldry and period names. Many that have
long put off these chores have a renewed interest and are currently
working on their goals.
Through much effort we have acquired to large dolls, which we plan
to dress up in period garb for demos for schools and the like.
H.L. Alicia le Willfule gave a class on gameboard making just in time
for Christmas, a nice idea for Christmas gifts.
My daughter Ashley the Crow's school put on a Christmas concert
that's theme was Good King Wencelas, and we were asked to help
out. We were split into the categories of weapons, armor, costuming
and cooking. The interest and response of the children and their
teachers was most gratifying. On hand for the demo were H.L. Rory
Woulfe of Kildare, H.L. Sabine de Provence, Lord Hermannus der
Mensch, Lady Constance de Montbard and Lady Effie Little. Many
thanks.
Thursday nights are split between medieval dance with Lady Tita the
Wanderer and medieval music with Thormot Mac Otter of Rushen
and H.L. Stephen of Hunmanby, those attending are most thrilled.
The Daughters of the Desert are continuing their Middle Eastern
dance classes early Friday evenings. Special thanks to Lord Hermannus der Mensch for keeping our web site up and running allowing us
all to keep in touch. Our new Chronicler H.L. Owen of Clan Frog
has given us the fist issue of Poor Drogo’s Almanac and as always
Drogo has his finger on the pulse of the Shire.
Wishing everyone happiness in the New Year.
Write to:
Lady Effie Little
Drogo’s school of letters
C/o this paper
To inquire about lessons
Group rates available
Mistress of Arts and Sciences
Non literati Carborundum
Page Eight
A&S
Con’t from page 8
Greetings Infidels!
His Lordship Stephen of Hunmanby
Bardic Champion of the Principality of Tir Righ
The Principality Champions are Heavy Champion (Scourge of the
North), Rapier Champion (Scar of the North, Guardian of the Rapier), Archery Champion (Scorer of the North), Arts & Sciences
Champion (Scholar of the North), and Bardic Champion.
Considered Ministers of the Principality, the Principality Champions
are selected through competition, rather than by appointment. They
can easily be considered the best the Principality has to offer. HL
Stephen of Hunmanby proved his Bardic skills a match for any and
all competition at this year’s Fall Coronet Tournament.
HL Stephen’s term of service will be until the next Fall Coronet
Bardic and Archery championship tournament is held. An event he
must organize. Considering the talent in the Principality choosing a
successor might be tough. Champions may defend their title. (What
do you think, Stephen?)
Duties of All Champions
To swear an oath of fealty and service to the Coronet.
To defend the honor and prestige of the Coronet and the Principality
of Tir Righ, whenever such is challenged.
To support the Coronet in war.
To attend all Coronet Events, unless that champion receives permis
-sion from the Coronet not to do so.
To speak or act in the Coronet’s name when delegated to do so.
To further the interests of their area of endeavor.
Some highlights of the last year were: In January we performed at the
North African Night for the French Club to help them raise money
for their pre-school program. In April we had both Ithra and Earthday performances. Roving dancing in July's Mermaid tourney and a
performances at the Fall Fair Demo rounded out this year’s tour.
In November members of the Daughters of the Desert formed a caravan to attend the Hafla hosted by Shareef Musiqu al-Rashid and
Belly Belly Hip.
It was inspiring to watch so many beautiful dancers perform and to
partake of the dance and drum classes, along with the opportunity to
meet new friends. The food was delicious prepared by a Syrian Chef
and the great tent was lavishly decorated with many beautiful lights
and lengths of cloth. Kareema, Sameera, Talib, Jannah, Malik and
Haziza, enjoyed ourselves immensely and intend to go next year.
En Sha' Allah,
Submitted by Jannah and Sameera
Rights and Privileges
To have a place at the high table for the champion and an escort.
To stand armed near the Coronet at all events.
To be at the side of the Coronet in war.
To bear and display the regalia of their position.
SKALD OF THE NORTH (Bardic Champions)
• XXXIV/1999 Premier: Justin de Leon
• XXXV/2000: Petro Rosvardo Thorvaldson
• XXXVI/2001: Anya Rozvardo
• XXXVI/2002: Bernadette Ebhilín Árd
• XXXVI/2003: Stephen of Hunmanby
Page Nine
Page Nine
Some of The Daughters of the desert
Front Row (Reclining) Kareema (Karen) Jannah (Sabine/Jeannette)
Back Row Sameeha (Constance) Talib (Rory) Kaheel (mka Merv new
fellow with the camera) Aziza (Judy Texada)
Gerhard Kendal
of Westmoreland
1936 -2003
“Life’s too short...
...find something you are
passionate about and do
some each and every day.”
The picture far left is of Gerhard teaching at
the very first newcomers workshop in False
Isle. My memories of this picture are of him
drawing on the chalk board explaining the
evolution of the SCA vehicle. First he drew a
small car, then crossed that out and drew a
bigger car, then a car and trailer, then a moving van. It went something like that. And
how true it is!
The picture to the left is in Seagirt at a Kingdom A & S. I loved his outfit. And of course
I got my hand kissed :-)
At a Mermaid's Tourney he presented with
the Baron and Baroness's favour. (And I got
my hand kissed again :-) That picture missed
being printed here, but is a favourite among
my SCA memories.
Since our paths crossed many times and it
saddens me that they won’t cross again.
(Hand kisses will never be the same.)
Rhyannan
of Pembroke Castle
First by Her Ladyship Rhyannan at
the Shire meeting and then by
Amanda herself at WinterFeast, we
have been asked to attend Gerhard
Kendal’s wake en masse as a Shire.
Page Ten
It will be Saturday March 13th. It will
be all day. So Saturday morning travel
should work. It is NON-SCA, no
garb. Let’s not disappoint these two.
It was Gerhard Kendall who came the closest to ending
my rapier career. My first battle as a carded fighter was
SeaLion held in Seagirt. I fought hard and found it very
confusing as to who was whom out there on the battlefield so one of my frere-de-le-blade (who shall remain
nameless) decided to string me along that I had fought
for the wrong side! (False Isle had sworn fealty as a Canton to Lions Gate).
Now I was in a moral quandary. In an effort to regain
my dignity and remain chivalrous I flung myself on the
ground before Baron Gerhard and placed my blade underneath his lifted foot. As he gazed down in some astonishment I explained that I may have fought for the wrong
side and if he deemed fit that he should bring his foot
down thus destroying my An Tir blade and ending my
rapier career.
Verily, he then smiled, and then chuckled and asked me
if "I fought to the best of my ability?" (yes), "did I enjoy
myself? (oh yes!), then he moved his foot and bid me continue to fight. This small tale demonstrates Gerhard’s approach to everything, humour, patience, and forgiveness.
I bid adieu to the finest hand-kisser in the Knowne
Worlde. A scholar, a leader, a warrior, a gentleman, with
just the right amount of rogue. I pity those fair maidens
that will never have the chance to feel the caress of his
velvet lips.
I Remember Gerhard
My first meeting with Gerhard was at the first SCA thing we went to,
a newcomers event in Lions Gate. I was a little nervous about how
would we taken, two gay men with a fourteen year old daughter. It
was the first thing that we had really done with the three of us, out
together as a family.
Everything was friendly and interesting, we had been introduced to
lots of folks, most of whom I'm now happy to call friends, like Lions
Gate's present Baron and Baroness. At one point I watched Kevin
and Liz (that's Thormot and Calicrist now) at the table of the older
guy with the rubber band guns, and how he talked, and how he listened, how
Liz lit up, how Kevin got animated, I could see from across the room,
there was something good happening. We had all decided when we
got home this was fun, and there was something here for all of us.
If you had ever watched Gerhard have a conversation with someone,
if he was interested, and show me a more interested person than
Gerhard, he had this way of drawing you out, sucking you into the
fun, then asking you questions that made you think. He always
wanted you to work it out for yourself, and did his best to set it up so
that you could understand how and why.
He taught the best Ithra classes, I remember getting ready for one
spring Ithra and seeing "Buckets and Butterflies", and laughing at the
title. It was my first class with him. I had no idea he could make period footwear so funny, so serious, so interesting, and have it start to
make sense to me.
In every class I took with him (and if he was teaching I went), he always made me feel that I had a part to play,
that much depended on my participation. For a grade nine dropout
with a classroom phobia, it was something I had never felt before. I
remember Gerhard as teacher more than anything else, because it
always seemed to me like he never stopped encouraging learning in
one form or another.
in service,
Two things stand out in my mind of all the associations I’ve had
with Baron Gerhard. In the first, I remember him sitting on the
top of a desk much as in the above picture. He took a few minutes
out of the classes to tell the story of the second time he fell in love.
He had been in love with Nancy Stevens all along, but fell again
when he first saw Amanda in her newly made first set of garb.
There was a tear in his eye. (...and there wasn’t a dry eye in the
house).
Some years ago I had the opportunity to visit the pit area of the
demolition derby at the PNE. I don’t remember the group’s name.
Something like Outlaw or Wildcat Racing. Surrounded by knuckledragging grease-covered tough guys, I felt quite out of place.
Suddenly walking out of a crowd of these Neanderthals comes a
friendly, recognizable face. My Baron, Gerhard Kendal of Westmoreland. He was, however, in his mundane disguise as Gerry Stevens. He took me on an hours long tour of the facility and introduced me around.
Spencer of House Mac Otter
I was stunned by one thing. These very same knuckle-draggers were
paying him exactly the same type of respect I am used to seeing him
receive in the SCA. It was spooky. To a man and woman (powderpuff racer, I understand) they showed a deference to him rare in the
mundane world.
He was true to his motto and enjoyed the things he was passionate
about and I have to believe that he had this effect on any group he
encountered.
It was at the same event that I jokingly asked him, “So, what do you
do in your spare time?” He rubbed his chin hmmmmed and replied, “Work, I guess.”
Owyn of Clan Frog
Page Eleven
Page Twelve
Arts and Sciences
Nina paused for a minute, weighing her options. “I know you’re
fascinated with humans and if you come to my room when everyone’s sleeping then I’ll explain.” Curious, Laura agrees.
Con’t from page 12
A Tale of Mermaids
by
Erin Hill
Sitting in her room, she read the poem she just wrote.
'Happy Hearts'
*
Midnight That Night
Laura knocks on her sister’s door. “Nina?” Nina swiftly opens the
door and pulls her in.
“Okay, I have this formula that I used when I was your age. You
can have it. Until your ungrounded, use this only at night, when
everyone is sleeping, so no one notices that your gone.”
Stunned, Laura studies the bottle. I can actually use this to become
human for a short time
In touching sometimes hearts will see.
That past hurts haunt unknowingly.
They twist us into tiny shapes.
That we should leave and not wait.
And then if known and understood.
A love two share if only could.
Soothe away the distant pains...
and love again ' tis all remains.
Two happy hearts with joy again.
“Don’t drink too much otherwise the effects can’t wear off.”
Looking into her sisters’ eyes, she hugs her suddenly. “This is like a
dream come true. Thank you.”
“Remember: With great power; comes great responsibility. Ha, I’ve
always wanted to say that. But seriously, don’t abuse this, Laura.”
“Oh, believe me, I won’t. Thanks again.”
Looking out at the coral reef outside her window, she sighed. Being
condemned to her room for a week really puts a damper on ones social life. Swimming over to her alarm clock, she figured that since she
was to be here for the next week, her family would have to put up
with her music.
“Laura!! You turn that blasted noise down this instant!” Laura rolled
her eyes, locked her door and turned the volume up.
Her father started pounding on her door. “Laura!!!! If you don’t turn
that blasted thing down, I’m going to give it to one of your sisters!”
Rolling her eyes and pouting, she turned the volume down so he
wouldn’t have to shout.
“Honey, I’m sorry but you know that you can’t socialize with humans.” Pouting still, she sat on her windowsill.
“And why not? Its not like they’re going to hunt us down. We never
hurt them so why should they hurt us?” She heard her father sigh and
when he didn’t reply; she figured that he had left. Picking up her
sketchbook, she looked at all her drawing of humans. Could she help
it if humans fascinated her? Its not like they would actually do any of
them any harm. A knock at her door broke her out of her thoughts.
“What?” Laura called.
“Hey, Laura, its me.” Swimming over she unlocked and opened the
door.
“Hey, Nina.” Nina was her 25-year-old sister that had come visiting for
her holiday. Nina came in and immediately embraced Laura in a hug.
“How’re you holding up?”
Laura shrugged. “I’m holding.”
Page Thirteen—Age: Seventeen
Happy Birthday, Erin.
Page Fourteen
The Shire of False Isle in a paragraph or two
In the past year so much was new
Baron Sir Gerhard is no longer with us it is true
But his spirit lives on, we have good memories to cling to
On our shores new ships they are abound
In our ports they dock to the greatest of sound
All are happy…cheers all around
In the Shire of False Isle their place has been found
Cheering and jeering, now a lull in the air
Mermaid is upon us so all must prepare
Merchants line up to hock their fine wares
The bardic fire is stoked so all with tale may share
Recognition was given to all who deserved it
Many a name were called forth, together we observed it
Too many were named to recall in this bit
But as sure as the sun rises each day we can remember every last of it
A new seneshale was found
When the past one stepped down
Rhyannan retired
So Sabine took the crown
Winterfeast is always enjoyed, that is no lie
All who come cannot deny
False Isle’s Youth Gang
Within False Isle, there resides a relatively little-known and somewhat obscure sub-group, unidentifiable primarily by the fact that
they have no legal identification yet; this group has been assigned
the moniker "The Teen Group".
Individuals in the teen group meet often as friends, and the group as
a whole meets occasionally for social gatherings; all are most eager
to take part in various capacities at such events as WinterFeast,
Ithra, and Mermaid.
Spending much of their time with each other in shadowy subterranean (rec... or was that "wreck"?) rooms, they venture forth from
time to time to demonstrate their fighting prowess, their fleet-footed
lightness in dance, or their entertaining renditions of music or song.
The group is sponsored by Aline de Bruges and HL Owyn of Clan
Frog, both of whose principal goal is to provide the young people
with a place to be and a group of their own to be with, that they may
maintain their connection with the SCA until such time as they can
take their place as young adults in the larger Society.
Ranging in age from 10 to 18, they include young ladies who are
champions in boffer and whalebone, plus others who enjoy the challenge of both rapier combat and dance, along with young men who
thrill both to the clash of rapiers and the siren call of music and song.
Aline de Bruges
Deputy Herald and Graphic Herald
The group is officially headed up by Nicolas Lucas de Navarre, a
rapier fighter and singer, and Man-at-Arms to HL Rory Woulfe of
Kildare, along with his deputy, Owain Godwinson, a new rapier
fighter, as well as both a musician and singer.
Watch for our next issue.
“The Spring Edition”
Fighting season begins...
Coming to a mailbox near you in
April
Travel Section
...being the adventures of False Islers abroad in
bothe the Knowne Worlde
and the mundane world
As I'm sure you have already heard, Duke Skepti
defeated Sir Ulf to become Crown Prince. Our
Lady Alicia did well in the Cadet tourney. And apparently False Isle was used by our Princess as a
horrible example of neglect of shires in the Principalities by Royalty who never visit such places (I
think she really likes us!).
...and then it was a
loooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooong
drive home again.
Hartwood Birthday Bash:
Stephen & Alicia Roam
the Kingdom of Antir
HL Sabine hinted that perhaps we could give a summary of our travels, so here goes (briefly, I hope).
(Editor’s Note: I was less delicate about asking for these travel journals.
I wanted a travel section. I have agoraphobia and now get my thrills
vicariously from the wanderings of others Both my persona and my
mundane self has traveled all about the world and have now retired
to False Isle. The wanderlust is still as strong as ever.
Between Stephen, Alicia and Eleanor they’ve logged more miles than
Marco Polo and the greatest traveler of the 14th century, Ibn-Battuta
put together.
In the 13th century Marco Polo (and Rusticello of Pisa) wrote the
Travels or rather, Divisament dou Monde (A Description of the World ) and
the even more widely traveled, but less known, Ibn-Battuta is the author of the book Tohfat Al-Nozzar Fi Ghara'ib Al-Amsar (Best sight-seeings
in the strangest territories).
Without people writing the journals the stories are lost. Wouldn’t
you just know I could over-complicate even an editor’s note—Owyn)
September Crown:
It was a looooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooong drive to
Marsden, Saskatchewan, and a couple of incidents made it very good
that we were traveling in convoy with Their Highnesses. The event
site itself is very nice. All the people from BC were made very nervous
by open fires creating showers of sparks, but apparently the fire hazard was only moderate - they've been getting regular rainfalls all summer.
We hadn't originally planned to attend
t h i s ,
b u t
a f t e r
t h a t
looooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooong
drive the truck was more than ready to go over to
Courtenay for servicing, so after barely time to turn
around we were off again. The site in Ravens Key
isn't as beautiful as our Mermaid site, but it is getting there and has a fantastic castle on a hill - an excellent place for a war).
Lord Hermannus did us all proud in the Heavy tourney - coming 3rd
in a field that included two knights (Prince Einar and Sir Thorvald, our
Principality Earl Marshal) is REALLY good. Sir Thorvald congratulated
him on his aggressive style and told him to keep it > up. After the tourney Sir Thorvald held a practice, so presumably Hermannus is even
more skilful now. Lady Tita did an excellent job as Lady-in-Waiting to
Her Highness (all good practice for when Hermannus wins the Coronet
for her!).
Fall Coronet Tourney:
Another long drive in convoy (safety in numbers) but this time uneventful. The site had to be changed at the last minute, and was probably the
worst event site I've been to, but we were just lucky to have a site at all.
Sir Ulf Bloodfoot Falgrson defeated Sir Owain ap Einar to become Tanist and make his inspiration, Celdae the Seeker, Tanista. I entered the
lists for the Archery Championship, knowing I hadn't a hope of winning. It was lots of fun, and in spite of the company, I didn't feel totally
incompetent - our new Archery Champion is Lady Anika Styfe, with
Morweena nad Delwyn being the other finalists.
As has already been discussed, I won the Bardic Championship - and
believe me I was really glad to be a contestant and not one of the
judges! And now we actually have a few weeks without running off
somewhere - in fact we actually get to hang out with all the rest of False
Isle at the Fall Fair Demo. I'm really looking forward to seeing everyone
there!
In Service to the Music and the Dream
THL Stephen of Hunmanby
JdL, A0A, Princess' Favour (Tir Righ)
Skald of the North
Page Fifteen
HL Rory Woulfe begins his
preparations
for Mermaid’s.
Robin of Sherwood
Nothing's forgotten....nothing's ever forgotten
“Let me get this straight Lord Woulfe...
you want 400 Temps... physically fit, climbing abilities a plus, able to
.
swing heavy objects, and with a penchant for anti-social behavior
And you require them for July 10th, this year at something called Mermaids?”
For some of us there has only ever been one Robin Hood Forget the
films in which Errol Flynn pranced about in his daft tights and silly
hat; forget 'Rawbin of Locksley' as portrayed by Kevin Costner in The
Prince of Thieves. The real Robin Hood was the Hooded Man, who
led his band of outlaws from the greenwood against the tyranny of
the Normans, in the ITV television series Robin of Sherwood.
To this day the haunting sound of Clannad's 'Robin - the Hooded
Man' theme takes some of us right back to the tracks and trails of
Sherwood Forest. Clannad provided the soundtrack for the entire
series. The soundtrack “Legend” is available on RCA.
Robin of Sherwood first appeared in the UK in 1984. It was written
and created by Richard Carpenter, who was well-versed in the actual
tales of the outlaw that have come down through the years (as distinct from other adaptations of the legend.)
Carpenter, rather than following in the footsteps of previous versions
of the story, grounded his interpretation firmly in the history of the
late 12th and early 13th centuries, providing a vibrant and believable
backdrop for the series. He also used existing historical material to
add a certain quality and clarity. Authenticity police will be hard
pressed to criticize. Locations are breath-taking.
Versions of the Legend
Following its first broadcast in the UK , the series was seen around
the world, and counted fans among the young and the old until the
US production company, Showtime, pulled its funding. As a result
the UK production company, Goldcrest, was forced to follow suit.
Thus the third series was to be the final outing for Robin and his
band of outlaws. Even today, the quality of the writing, acting and
production values sets the series apart from other interpretations of
the legend. Indeed, for many, the series is the one truly definitive
treatment of the legend of Robin Hood.
Page Sixteen
The series is available for rent at most video stores..
Travel,
Page Seventeen
Con’t from page 15
The Adventures
of
Eleanor de Guernsey
Puerto Escondido is near Loreto about 20 kms south. It is an almost
circular harbour formed by the rim of an old volcano. The surrounding backdrop is the “Sierra Giganta” mountain range. The summer
temperatures were pretty warm, in the 100 degree range. It is now
down in the low 80’s.
It was very dry in the summer but in September the chubascos (rapid
storms of very localized winds) and hurricanes brought a lot of rain
and it has turned the countryside very green and brought on the mosquitoes.
We were back on the boat for 10 days before Hurricane Marty blew
through. We were tied to a 5 long ton mooring made of concrete so
we had no problems except for chafing of our mooring lines. The boat
suffered no problems save some glass jars in a sliding drawer that was
not secured. A boat slid between us and our neighbour while paying
out anchor rode as it went by.
We like working hard at setting up tables and taking them down; we
serve behind the bar at the Sunday brunches, (we mix up Caesars and
sell them, and beers and sodas). At the monthly meetings of the yacht
club, we both cook and serve hotdogs.
Kip has become involved with a buddy of his in looking after boats
that are in the Escondido harbour. People leave their vessels with Kip
and Elvin as the provisional captain for the duration of their absence.
Some boats engines have to be started or their gen-sets run, bilges and
batteries checked and anchor or mooring lines checked for chafe.
We just brought Angelos down to La Paz for a haul out. We have a few
repairs we hadn’t expected so we will be out of the water for ten days
instead of the four we had planned on. We are still hoping to be back
in Escondido by Christmas.
We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in
2004. We would love to see anybody who can make it down for a
visit.
Love,
Mary and Kip
Mail : .
Flat mail only:
1564 Hurford Ave
AP 184
Courtenay, B.C.
Loreto, BCS 23880
V9N 6X3
Mexico
email: [email protected] [email protected]
Shortly after, our nearest boat, Debutante, let go of it’s mooring and
swung 180 degrees and then back again to settle in the sand in the
head of our bay. Needless to say it was quite the wake-up call as to
what lies beneath the quiet of our existence in this paradise we have
chosen to call home for a while.
We had a few busy days helping haul boats off the beach. A few of the
boats were known to us but most were complete strangers. Everyone
pitched in, almost in a festive air thanking every God that it wasn’t us
up there on the rocks.
A cute little custom of closing down the day happens close to where
our boat was anchored. It is held at Cocktail Cove, a shallow little bay,
complete with a ring of concrete blocks in the water to form seats and
a floating table for our drink containers and hors d’oeuvres.
We all sit around and talk about the day’s proceedings and of course
feed any little rumors that come up about anybody who is not there to
dispute the “Talk”.
We are both committed to the Hidden Port Yacht Club and all their
little projects. We both volunteer for all sorts of stuff but will not get
involved at the executive level although we have been asked many
times to serve in that capacity.
Consider your origin; you were
not born to live like brutes, but to
follow virtue and knowledge.
Dante Alighieri, 1265-1321)
The Divine Comedy
Page Eighteen
Lady Lady Constance Rocks
CALM DOWN OWYN. YES, WE
ALL KNOW YOU THINK CLAN
FROG IS NUMBER ONE.
A picture of the rockin’ Principality banner made by
Lady Lady Constance de Montbard. Quoting a reliable
source, “It has been commented on very favourably by a
number of people whose opinion means something in the
area of needle work.” as it has traveled outside the Shire.
Wow. Hey, sometimes ya gotta brag.
False Isle ROCKS!
...and as usual,
‘Tonio the Sicilian
Owyn of Clan Frog—the early years -
Ok, The principality of Tir Righ can ROCK too.
Know Your Peasants?
Gert The incessantly pregnant Universal peasant, Gert seems very
susceptible a brush of the wrist or the wind on her ears as evidenced
by her fecundity. She runs the “kissing booth’ at Phesint’s Knite and
has been noted for her dental hygiene. Do not sit opposite her when
she eats ...and she has about nine hundred children.
Mutt 170 pounds of snarling stoat cunningly disguised as a foul-
breathed, demon-tongued, beady-eyed, bandy-legged, leather-skinned,
untrainable, untreatable, untrustworthy, unwashed, unshaven, uncouth, thoroughly unappealing, stinking peasant (and those are his
good traits!) May weigh as much as 240 pounds. with his pockets full.
...and be careful. His bite is actually worse than his bark.
Principality Events
April 23-25
Eisenmarche
Spring Coronet and Arts & Sciences Championship
June 11-13
Ravensweir
Summer Investiture and Heavy Championship
Sept 17-19
Ramsgaard
Fall Coronet and Bardic & Archery Championships
Nov 19-21
False Isle
Winter Investiture and Rapier Championship
Mutt
Gert
Owyn’s Wish List
for the New Year
i
Please accept the following New Year Wishes as my clumsy attempt
at a thanks to every one of you for making me so welcome. My
contacts with each of you have the last year an incredible one and
this year looks even better already.
...for His Lordship Grimon de Beaujolais, MacGrimmon, etc., may
you always have an audience. I guess that’s really a wish
for the audience, but it will have to do.
...for Her Welsh Ladyship Rhyannan of Pembroke Castle, (I do
feel badly that my wish for last year never came true.)
the same as last year. You really could help just a little.
...for His Lordship Rory Woulfe of Kildare, time to work on the
armour we spoke of. (!)
...for Her Ladyship Sabine de Provence, fewer disembowelings,
more herrings
...for Her Ladyship Saeunn Hrafnsdottir, SCA events with dog
shows, or dog shows with a medieval themes, cut your
mileage in half.
...for Her Ladyship Lady Alicia the Wilfulle, mobility (upwards)
...for His Lordship Stephen of Hunmanby, mobility (manual)
...for iLady Lady Constance de Montbard, that third Lady for the
full set & an SCA equestrian event here in False Isle.
...for Lord Thorvald “ Toothspitter” Ivarsson, that they be able to
keep stackin’ ’em up for as long as he can knock ‘em
down.
...for Elfgiva Rolandsdottir, World peace. Keep that husband
home more.
..for Lord Edward the Merchant of False Isle, no slowpokes in his
way when he’s headed home to his Lady wife.
...for Lady Effie Little, a little goose. *smirk*
...for Lord Bartholomeus de Crecy, a mysterious shipment of yew.
...for Lady Arianwyn verch Laugharne, the success of your mun
dane “dream”
...for Lord Azemar de Lyon, a word to rhyme with “Ithra”.
...for b Lady Calindra de Silva, the one thing left!
...for w Lord Geoffrey of Mylar, the hint!
...for Lord Hermannus der Mensch, a reminder for him to send me
the translation of which particular mensch he might be at
that moment. (I am that cat that curiosity killed and you
are making me nuts!)
...for Lady Tita the Wanderer, Dance Fever. ...like Geoffrey’s last
year:- hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha
...for Lady Svaana of the Wilde Woode, gems, gems, more gems.
...for Lord Thorfinn of Black Point, less work, more time for
those personal projects.
...for Lord Morgan von Drakenvold, happiness until he returns
from seeking his fortune.
...for Aline de Bruges, the hope that she knows just how cool her
students find her and how vocal they are about it.
...for k Spencer Mac Otter, more bells-a-ringin’...
...for l Thormot Mac Otter, a long and happy carrer as the
Shire’s Bard
...for a Calycrist Cottier, many chances to play her flute when I’m
about. It’s my favourite.
...for Annastasia, a certain metal four-poster.
...for Mungar Öndör, a new chiurgeon so he might stay with us longer.
...for the smith, fPeter, the timely completion of his shop, at least
the one in this part of the multiverse.
...for Brian the Elder, more events.
...for Cicilia, an uneventful Mermaid’s Tourney.
...for Eleanor de Guernsey, her way home, but not too soon.
...for Mary, spare time enough to show the rest of us how to get
younger instead of older.
...for Jim, to get to stay here in False Isle.
...for Genevieve, to find your way clear to come back and play.
...for Claiflin of Cork, a new address away from that landlord.
...for Walter of Black Point, an out-of-the-blue adventure.
...for Camille, Barry in tights
...for Adrian of the Grievous Wound, tights. (Camille will have to tell
you why.)
...for Ambrosine, to get well enough to come back.
...for Angelina, a way to get back to rapier fighting.
...for Erin, an agent and a publisher.
...for Gabriel, his own rapier equipment.
...for Nicolas Lucas de Navarre, better health.
...for Heather, to turn 16 and be rapier legal.
...for Maenyn, to get the cabin back.
...for Owain Godwinson, who has the 2nd coolest name in the Shire, a
digital camera to show his skills (and a subtle hint
that the Mermaid always needs photographers).
...for Sarah, that she not go deaf from that Japanese Techno-Pop she
listens to. Rock and Roll will never die!
...for Ashley the Crow, another boffer competitor to test your skills
as talented as talented and chivalrous as Elizabeth.
...for Elizabeth the Dragon, a whalebone competitor to test your skills
as talented and chivalrous as Ashley
...for Bella, Bob the Dog, Foo, Frodo, Kira, Teddy, w Toby &
Trump, the Shire’s dog buddies,
lots of attention, pets and scritches (mostly from me, of course).
...for tiu missing friends, peace.
...and lastly, for the peasant k Drogo, much future success with his
Almanac.
So that’s it. If I missed anyone, please know it wasn’t for lack of trying.
My short-term memory problems are well known and I hope will stand
as an apology to any of you I over-looked.
I have no idea how the next year could be better than the last, but like I
said last year, every time I say it can’t get better, you folks prove me
wrong.
Thank you, One and All.
Your servant,
m Owyn
Page Nineteen
i
Supporters
We really are trying hard to keep this magazine and Poor Drogo’s Almanac regularly mailed out free of charge to the populace of False
Isle. So far, so good. The limited size of our membership here in the Shire keeps the costs low. We have a freedom unavailable to branches
with large numbers of paid subscriptions. The low numbers keep printing costs from swamping us. We aren’t bogged down in event copy like
more central areas so experimentation is within reason. We live in a very special and unique Shire that allows for many wondrous things.
That being said, should you like to make a donation or help sponsor an issue, we’ll talk.. It’s cheap. It’s fun. It’s hip.
Both the Mermaid’s Tales and Poor Drogo’s Almanac and the Office of the Chronicler, False Isle, would like to thank those below for all
of their continuing support. You are officially declared hip. So let it be written.
The Great Household
of
Clan frog
WolFWorks
The smith, Peter,
is from the somewhere in the “Baltic states” sometime
during the 12th or 13th century and is, oddly enough, a smith.
Peter Elvy is considerably more complicated a persona ...er, ah, person. Peter is a metalworker & an artist . He is able to do metalwork
from the truly medieval to the absolutely futuristic. He can forge (even
smelt) and cast a wide variety of metals using period methods. Peter
has widely researched medieval techniques and uses them regularly. He
has also just acquired technology that jumps him into the 21st century.
A plasma cutter and computer controlled cutting table that he had to
sign papers for promising not to allow the technology to fall into the
hands of countries “on the banned list”. ...but just think of the endless SCA projects possible (I know I am. Ed.)
Lord Bartholomeus de Cressy, the
archer and his Welsh lady, the Lady Arianwen verch Laugharne come
to use out of the twelfth century. Usually seen making flaming arrows, and bows, (that are
both becoming known Kingdom-wide, I might add. Ed.), and generally being genuinely
cool.
lives in Lyon, France, in the year of our Lord 1240. He lives in truly noble
lifestyle on his estate in the Lyon countryside and is a student of the False Isle Ecole d'Epee.
His motto “Beneficium ab Adrideo” should bring his face to the mind to any.
Lord Azemar de Lyon
Daniel Friesen, Diana Roxburgh, and Josh Friesen by some odd quirk of fate, coincidence
or anachronism are equally as cool. With all of the chaos, long hours, capital drainage of
purchasing, readying, and running of their new Cranberry Lake Nursery they took time to
think of us here at the Chroniclers Office (while digging up an order of trees. Ed.). Cool and
more flowers than you can shake a hippy at. Hmmm… works for me!