Tuesday 1 October 2013

Historia Septentriae: Being a History of Septentria

Penned by Brother Thomas, of the Order of St. Crispinus


Winter, AS 37, while Baron Corwyn Galbraith and Baroness Domhnail Galbraith have arisen to the Ursine thrones of Septentria, and while King Roak II and Queen Arlette sit the Lupine thrones of Ealdormere.

Copyright © Todd Fischer (THLaird Colyne Stewart), 2003.

Revised, July AS 38, while Baron Corwyn Galbraith and Baroness Domhnail Galbraith sit the Ursine Thrones, and while King Edouard and Queen Genevieve sit the Lupine thrones of Ealdormere.

Revised, March AS 39, while Baron Corwyn Galbraith and Baroness Domhnail Galbraith sit the Ursine Thrones, and while King Malik and Queen Genevieve sit the Lupine thrones of Ealdormere.
  

Preface

Greetings from Brother Thomas, lowly monk and scribe, and loyal subject of Their Excellencies Corwyn and Domhnail, and Their Majesties Roak and Arlette.

For much of my life I have lived within abbeys, most recently that of Sehr Großer Becher. There I spend my days working in the scriptorium, studying scripture and the chronicles of the past. The abbot, who knew my love of history, one day brought me word from my benefactor Laird Colyne Stewart that the Baron and Baroness wished a history of our lands written. My Laird laid this noble task at my feet. I was, I admit, flustered. To even contemplate writing a history of this fair land was a daunting thought, especially when such notable chroniclers as St. Brand and Brother Magnus of Iona have in the past bent their quills to this task. However, as is always the case, when duty calls, I answer. Please find within these pages my attempt to piece together our long and rich history from the various and sundry sources I could unearth. I have tried, with all diligence, to use the correct dates and names, but errors may still occur. I am indebted to all the chroniclers and historians of the past, and to several folk of our barony who did regale me with tales of Septentria.

I hope the work I have produced meets with the approval of Their Excellencies and Their Majesties, as I hope it approves with all who read it.

For my Baron and Baroness, and my King and Queen,

In God All Things,

Thomas


AS 8, in which Duke Sir Finnvarr arrives in what will one day be Ealdormere.

Before there was Ealdormere, before there was Septentria, there was the wide expanse of wild, untamed land. It was a realm rich with flora, and bears and wolves and other creatures freely roamed the woods and vales. In the eighth year of the Society a long ship came to this place. This vessel traveled across the cold Inland Seas and came to shore in land unclaimed by any King or Queen. Upon that boat was Count (now Duke) Sir Finnvarr de Taahe, a tall Irishman well renowned for his martial skill and his historian’s intellect. Quickly he set to work and began to build a hall. Before long he was joined by Lady (later Mistress) Gillian Olafsdottir d’Uriel, an old acquaintance from his homeland.


AS 9, in which the Royal Citie of Eoforwic is founded, Hugo von Feuerklippe is first seen and the first event in the northlands is held.


Together Finnvarr and Gillian cleared land, sowed fields and built halls. Others came to reside in the land, and soon they had formed the first northern shire. One of those to first join the new shire was Hugo von Feuerklippe, of whom more will be said later. Thus was Eoforwic born in the ninth year of the Society. (Though in documents later procured by certain burghers of Eoforwic, it was discovered that Cariadoc, first King of the Middle, had granted the group city status a full two years before Finnvarr had founded it. This may have had to do with a certain ring they ‘returned’ to him that had been found rolled in the document.)

Eoforwic’s first event was held on the fifteenth of March and was a day of tournies and feasting. It drew many visitors from the southron lands, and this was to continue whenever Eoforwic held an event.


AS 10, in which the northlands produces its first female fighter, a newsletter is founded, Eoforwic travels to its first Pennsic War, Sylard of Eagleshaven is first seen, the canton of Petrea Thule is a glimmer in Sylard’s eye, the shire of Noerlanda is founded, House Fyve’O is founded and the first Feast of the Bear is held.

Jehanne l’Enragee was another early Eoforing, a lady who took to the chivalric arts and would distinguish herself on the field in years to come. During the summer of the tenth year of the Society, Jehanne traveled to Eastmere in the East Kingdom where she was admitted to the Lists and became the first female fighter to come from the north. She would later become a squire to Finnvarr de Taahe.

During this same summer a good gentle called Penberthy did first begin to chronicle the events of the shire in a broadsheet called the Eoforing. The Eoforing would go on to greater things, and more will be written of it later in this history.

In August the shire sent a contingent to War, though Count Sir Finnvarr was the only fighter had authorization to take the field.

September saw the shire hosting a post-war reconciliation tournament. It was at this tournament that Sylard of Eagleshaven, that notorious mercenary and later a member of the Order of the Laurel, was first seen.

In December Sylard first set his eyes to the lands to the north of Eoforwic, looking for unused tracts of land suitable for founding a penal colony. Over time Sylard’s collection of outlaws and brigands would grow into a true canton, known as Petrea Thule. Sylard since moved on again, and took up residence in the thistly land of Monadh. Petrea Thule would gain renown as the birthplace of royalty and nobility. The canton would produce not one, but two, sets of Septentrian nobility. For Petrea Thule was home at various times to Cordigan d’Arnot and Diane d’Arnot (the second Baron and third Baroness of Septentria), and Ieuan McKellmore and Adrielle Kerrec (the third Baron and the fourth Baroness of Septentria). This is the same Cordigan and Diane that would one day be Prince and Princess of Ealdormere, and Baron and Baroness of Ramshaven. Of them more will be told elsewhere in this chronicle. The Norseman, Thorbjorn Osis Brandson, was first seen dwelling in the Thule. Indeed, he and Ragnheithr Thorbjarnarsdottir lived in Petrea Thule during their own reign as Prince and Princess of Ealdormere. Of them, more will be said later.
            For a time Petrea Thule would also be known for its shieldwall. The wall, which included Ieuan, Cordigan and Osis, seemed invincible and often took no casualties. One popular legend tells of future Septentrian Baron Aedan na Kincora leaving the field at Pennsic and watching the wall with the yellow scutums destroy their enemies. When he asked what kingdom was so privileged to have such soldiers on the field he was told that the wall came from his newest canton. “Well,” he said, “I am certainly glad they are on our side.”

Many more men and women began to brave the northern weather in this year and they settled to the north and east of Eoforwic. Tierr and Lilladrel founded the doomed Shire of Noerlanda, which would eventually fall into ruin Lady TSivia ben Tamara of Amberview (now  Dame TSivia bas Tamara v’Amberview) was Noerlanda’s first seneschal. A ‘Household shire’, called House Fyve’O was formed by Lord Wulfram Wulfscilding and Lord Caelwulf Longstrider (each a cousin to the other).

On the twenty-seventh day of March, Noerlanda hosted the first Feast Of The Bear. This event would become an annual tradition for many years in the lands that would one day become Septentria. Though the Feast would die out for a time, it was later revived by Baron Corwyn and Baroness Domhnail.


AS 11, in which House de Taahe makes itself known, House Amberhall is first seen, Eoforwic produces a war company, Ben Dunfirthshire appears, Finnvarr de Taahe wins the Crown Tournament of the Kingdom of the Middle, Caitlin Stuart is first seen, Aedan na Kincora and Caffa Muirath are first seen, the idea of a barony of the north is first proposed and the Shire of Starleaf Gate is founded.

In July that mercenary, Sylard of Eagleshaven, attached himself to Finnvarr’s household, making House de Taahe the first household of Eoforwic. This House would go on to produce members who were knights, duchesses and barons.

That very next month Noerlanda held a tourney that attracted Torbin of Amberhall, Ragni Dzintari and Eanor of Amberhall. They were known as House Amberhall. This is the same Torbin that went on to be a baron of the court, the same Ragni that went on to be a companion of the Orders of the Pelican and the Laurel, and the same Eanor who would one day be a duchess. Of all three more is written of elsewhere in this chronicle.

When the call came to rally for the Pennsic War, Eoforwic sent a small war company to aid the Middle. It consisted of Finnvarr, Hugo and Jehanne.

By September a shire calling itself Ben Dunfirthshire had formed to the west of Eoforwic. It would later take the name Ben Dunfirth, and for a time New Farthing, and eventually become a Barony in its own right.

In October Finnvarr, fighting for Caellyn FitzHugh, did win the title of Prince of the Middle Kingdom. Though not born in the northlands he was the first of those who dwelled in those lands to claim a crown.

The following month Caitlin Stuart was first sighted in the shire. Aedan na Kincora and Caffa Muirath were seen in December. Much more is written of these three good gentles elsewhere in this chronicle.

In January the people of the northlands did begin to consider uniting together as a barony of the Middle Kingdom. Many supported the idea, though many were against it as well. It would take two years for this idea to bear fruit.

That March House Fyve’O formed a shire known as Starleaf Gate.


AS 12, in which Finnvarr de Taahe and Caellyn FitzHugh reign as King and Queen of the Middle, the northern shires agree to unite as a barony and the shires of Skraeling Althing and Kalenda Formas are founded.

Upon the turning of the Society year, Finnvarr and Caellyn were crowned as the King and Queen of the Middle Kingdom. Finnvarr and Caellyn named Gillian as Their Poet Laureate.

On the twenty-second day of June in the twelfth year of the Society, representatives of the northland shires met and agreed to unite and petition for recognition as a true barony. Lady Gillian d’Uriel was selected to become Baroness, Wulfram Wulfscilding was to be her seneschal and Prince Finnvarr was to be the marshal. The Eoforing, which had long been read by all those in the northlands, became the baronial newsletter called the Ursus. (Though in later years Eoforwic would once again produce its own broadsheet, for a time under variations of The No Name Newsletter, and again under the name Eoforing.)

Before the season of the holly news came of the birth of two new groups in the northlands. The first was the canton of the Skraeling Althing, a canton that would go on to greater and grander things. The aforementioned Lady Tsivia, first seneschal of Noerlanda, was Skraeling Althing’s founder. The other was a shire called Kalenda Formas, which fell into ruin.


AS 13, in which the barony of Septentria is founded, Gillian d’Uriel is invested as Baroness and made a member of the Order of the Laurel, Caffa Muirath wins in the Lists, the barony hosts its first event, the barony attends its first Pennsic War, Eanor of Amberhall becomes a ward of Gillian d’Uriel, the canton of Fortress Royal is founded, Hugo von Feuerklippe is raised to the Order of Chivalry, the first Septentrian fight practice is held, and the first baronial arts and sciences minister is appointed.


On the thirteenth day of May, in the thirteenth year of the Society, the northern shires were recognized as a true barony of the Middle Kingdom by King Merowald II and Queen Kirsten II. So thus in our northern lands the number of thirteen is no ill omen but a sign of good fortune.
The name of this new barony was Septentria, which, as Duke Sir Finnvarr later explained, was derived from the Latin septentriones, meaning north, northern region, or north winds. The Barony’s arms featured a bear, representing the northern lands, and three interlaced chevronels in honour of the three founding shires—Eoforwic, Ben Dunfirth and Noerlanda. Gillian d’Uriel—who designed the barony’s arms—then became the first Baroness of Septentria. As is sometimes done, she was known as Her Excellency Septentria. Her successors would be more often called the Barons and Baronesses of Septentria. She was also that day elevated to the Order of the Laurel for her contributions to dance, poetry and drama within the Society.

Dame TSivia bas Tamara v’Amberview would later write of the Healing Crown of Septentria, which was given by Afon Araf (a former Canton of Septentria) to Gillian during her reign. Gillian would pass it to Aedan na Kincora and Caffa Muirath (who were Gillian’s successors to the Ursine thrones), who then gave it to the first Baroness of Skraeling Althing. This glorious crown was unfortunately too small to fit any of these good gentles’ heads. Eventually it came to reside with Master Naon na Cruitre, whose head it reputedly did fit. Over time, it was recognized that this Crown did have healing powers, and cured those whom it touched. Unfortunately, this relic has not now been seen for many years.

Later that same month the Queen held a tournament for female fighters, which Caffa Muirath did win. However, Caffa never considered her victory a true one, as she felt the lists had not been run well.

Two months later the new barony of Septentria hosted its first event, in honour of its new status. As in past events held in the northlands, many members of the populace of far off lands came to participate. There was much fighting and feasting and the game of blind samurai was much enjoyed. This game consisted of fighters wearing blindfolds and attempting to strike their opponents with great swords.

At the Pennsic War Septentria marshaled a large force that also featured conscripts from the foreign but allied House Elandris and Castel Rouge. It was at this war that Aedan na Kincora and Caffa Muirath first learned the arts of war that would serve them well in the future.

In September Torbin and Ragni entrusted Eanor of Amberhall to the Baroness as a fosterling, to be taught the ways of the court and to serve as a lady-in-waiting.

Also at this time the doomed canton of Fortress Royal was founded by David aus Fress of Skraeling Althing.

That October saw Hugo von Feuerklippe made a knight of the Society in the canton of North Woods. Still greater things yet awaited Hugo.

March saw the first baronial fight practice, hosted by Noerlanda and held in conjunction with the Feast Of The Bear. That same day Alistair Kirk announced the formation of House Inness.

Also that month the barony appointed its first arts and sciences minister, then called the mistress of arts. Morgan of Lindisfarne, of blessed memory, was asked to fulfill this role.


AS 14, in which Torbin of Amberhall is made a Baron of the Court, Jehanne l’Enragee is named poet laureate of the Middle Kingdom, Hugo von Feuerklippe and Aedan na Kincora distinguish themselves at the Pennsic War, Aedan is made a member of the Order of the Silver Oak, the canton of Aron Araf holds its first event, and the first Clancy Day is held.

The Middle Kingdom held a crown tournament in the new year at which Torbin of Amberhall was recognized by Queen Ithriliel I for his contributions to a great quest she had planned for her knights. That same day Jehanne l’Enragee was made the poet laureate for a year. The very next month Jehanne moved to the canton of Roaring Wastes, which lied south of Septentria, a land in danger of falling to the wild. With her aid the canton became stronger than ever.

At the Pennsic War a feat of courage and skill at the sword was enacted in the woods battle. The fighting was fierce and the Middle Kingdom found itself sorely pressed. Standing atop a growing pile of bodies, Hugo von Feuerklippe and Aedan na Kincora did protect the Midrealm banner until the bitter end.

For a very long time had Aedan na Kincora laboured over the forge creating articles for the armoury. In October King Laurelin and Queen Ithriliel recognized his science by inducting him into their Order of the Silver Oak. Aedan only learned of this long after, as he did not attend the event at which he was so honoured.

For a short time the canton of Aron Araf had then existed and in November they held their first event. Sir Hugo held the field for five battles with naught but a dagger and buckler until the mercenary Sylard bested him. Unfortunately, the canton of Aron Araf was cursed, and after many years fell into ruin.

In March Starleaf Gate hosted the first Clancy Day, a celebration in honour of a canine. It was attended by eleven knights and all the royalty of the Middle Kingdom. This event is became popular and is still held to this day. At this time the Shire was a part of Septentria but in much later years it would leave our lands.


AS 15, in which the first game of bouzkashi is played in Septentria, Mordain Blackcloak is chosen to be baronial champion, Gillian d’Uriel begins to look for successors, Aedan na Kincora and Caffa Muirath are listed as Vicers of East Septentria, Gillian declares war on North woods, Sylard of Eagleshaven hosts a solstice celebration, and the canton of Dubhras appears.


June saw Baron Torbin of Amberhall introduce an Afghan game called bouzkashi to the populace of the barony. It involved the throwing of sheep and for a time fell into obscurity as some deemed its practice distasteful.

That next month Baroness Gillian selected a baronial champion. Until that point in time her champion had been chosen at each successive tourney, so many had held the title and worn the favour. Now she broke with her own tradition and selected Mordain Blackcloak, squire to Sir Finnvarr, to be her champion.

Around this same time Gillian began to look for successors as she feared she might have to move to North Woods. In December she named Aedan na Kincora and Caffa Muirath as her vicars of East Septentria. In January, at the Middle Kingdom’s Twelfth Night, Gillian announced that rather than set aside her title as Baroness of Septentria she would simply annex North Woods and make it a part of the barony. The warriors of Septentria and of the North Woods began to ready for war which would be met that summer.

At this same time Sylard and House Eagleshaven invited the folk of Eoforwic to an Up-He-Aligh, which is a Norse solstice celebration. A boat was laden with sacrifices, and after prayers for a fruitful year were said, the boat was set ablaze on the water. This is a tradition that Sylard continues to this day. This should not be confused with the boat burning that occurs at Pennsic lake, which is done to honour those who have left this live.

In March the canton of Dubhras was first seen by the gentles of the barony. Septentria can be a land of turmoil, and sadly this canton, like so many others, fell into ruin. The land would eventually be claimed by another settlement, called Bryniau Twynnog.


AS 16, in which Anne le gris is named Septentria’s poet laureate, Hugo von Feuerklippe and Caitlin Stuart I did reign as King and Queen in the Middle Kingdom, Torbin of Amberhall and Caffa Muirath are honoured by the King and Queen, Rising Waters is seen for the first time, the battle for North Woods is fought, Aedan and Caffa are invested as Baron and Baroness, the Septentrian Guard and Septentrian Archery Corps are founded, the Award of the Bear’s Claw is created and Skraeling Althing splits from Septentria

Around this time, Lady (now Mistress) Anne le gris won a bardic competition and was named Septentria’s poet laureate.

The first king of the Middle Kingdom to hail from the lands of Septentria was Sir Hugo von Feuerklippe, who reigned with Caitlin Stuart I from May until October. (Though Sir Finnvarr did also hold that same Crown he had not been born in the northlands). Caitlin Stuart then made history as she became the first Queen of the Middle to swear an oath upon accepting her crown. No other Queen of the Middle had done this before. Baron Torbin was named as the Royal Chamberlain and Caffa Muirath was made the King’s Champion. At the coronation the people of Rising Waters made themselves known.
            Hugo and Caitlin would later have the honour of crowning the first Prince and Princess of Calontir.

At this time Her Excellency Gillian d’Uriel relinquished the Ursine Thrones in favour of Aedan na Kincora and Caffa Muirath. This occurred in Afon Araf, in June at the Pacification of the North Woods. Earlier that day the armies of Septentria and North Woods had met to do battle but found a band of mercenaries in wait that threatened them both. Only together did the two armies defeat the mercenaries, and then only barely. When the battle was over peace was declared, and at court that night Gillian surrendered Septentria to the Crown. King Hugo and Queen Caitlin then invested Aedan and Caffa as Baron and Baroness.

During Their reign, Aedan and Caffa appointed a baronial harpist, a position that still exists to this day. For Their harpist They chose first Nain of Islandia, known to us now as Nain na Cruitre, and later Mistress Rhiannon of Wye, of blessed memory, author of the Septentrian War Song.
            They also instituted the giving or rings, especially arm rings, to acknowledge good and just deeds by the populace of the barony.

To protect Septentria in times of war, Aedan and Caffa formed the Septentrian Archery Corps and the Septentrian Guard. The Guard counted the Eoforwic City Militia amongst its numbers, for at that time Eoforwic was the home of Aedan and Caffa. Eoforwic was therefore seen as the capital of Septentria. (At least, that’s what the Eoforings claim.)

At that year’s Pennsic War, Aedan and Caffa instituted the Award of the Bear’s Claw, to be given to those who contributed in a great way to the war effort, militarily or otherwise. The first recipients were Helmut of Greenland and Broder from Castel Rouge.

During the past few years, Skraeling Althing had grown substantially, and it soon claimed the right to be a barony in its own right. The Skrael gained independence in March of the sixteenth year of the Society, while the home canton of the same name eventually became known as Caldrithig.

AS 17, in which the Order of the Bear’s Heart is founded, the gold and red torses are worn, Mordain Blackcloak is knighted, Septentrians are captured by the Great Dark Horde, the canton of Der Welfengau is founded, the Cauldron of Ceredwyn is instituted, taxes are levied, a Master of Steel is named, the Baronies of Septentria and Skraeling Althing almost war on one another, the canton of Vest Yorvik is founded and Gaerwen of Trafford is first seen.

In July the Order of the Bear’s Heart was founded, with Lord Illtyd the Apostate named Champion of the Order.

That same month Baron Aedan led a troop of soldiers to North Woods for a battle. They all wore torses of twined red and gold, topped with golden bears on their helms. At this time, the colours of Septentria were gules and or, that is to say red and gold/yellow, rather than the gules and argent, or red and silver/white we see today. At the Pennsic War many of the fighters of Septentria went thus attired to the field.
That war the barony acquitted itself well. During the bridge battle they gave no ground and held their bridge until the end. Two other events at this eleventh Pennsic War must be recorded. The first being that Sir Mordain, former Champion of Septentria, and now a member of the barony of Skraeling Althing, was knighted. The second is the capture of Septentrians by the Great Dark Horde. When a group of Septentrians were visiting the camp of the Great Dark Horde the gates were ordered locked so that no member of the Order of the Chivalry, who had met there to moot, could leave early. The Septentrians were wary at first, but the free flowing ale the nomads provided eased their moods.

December did see the formation of a new canton called Der Welfengau. Der Welfengau would go on to be known as a land of learning for they held many collegiae. As they were mighty in knowledge they could also be mighty of arm and Der Welfengau would be home for a time to David Martin Failsworth, of whom more will be said later.

At the Baronial Twelfth Night in January, Sylard gave unto Aedan and Caffa a cauldron named after the goddess Ceredwyn which he said had been crafted by dwarves. On the side were carved runes which read, “Cauldron of Ceredwyn given by Aedan and Caffa Septentria for the giver of the gift of inspiration.” Aedan and Caffa the proclaimed that the cauldron would be given each year to those who inspired others with their acts and deeds. The first recipient was Sylard himself. At that same Twelfth Night, Aedan and Caffa also instituted the tradition of baronial taxes; for their first tax they asked each canton to present a spear bearing a pennon at the next Twelfth Night. Aedan then made Lord Strygor von Talmetz the Baronial Master of Steel to ensure order in the hall. This was a post Strygor held for long.
            Lord Alasdair of Raasay came then close to starting a war between Septentria and Skraeling Althing. For he had seen land nearby to the Skrael that he wished Septentrians to settle. Baroness Enid Aurelia of the Tin Isles, first Baroness of Skraeling Althing, did mightily protest. Though the word war was spoken the conflict never became that heated and eventually the matter was settled peaceably.

During this year, Gaerwen of Trafford, then known as Llyn, was first seen. She would go on to great things, and much more of her is written of elsewhere in this chronicle.

During this year the canton of Vest Yorvik was founded. The canton has been ever vibrant and is a place of artisans and warriors and has produced many fighters for the baronial army.


AS 18, in which Hugo von Feuerklippe leaves Septentria, the Cauldron of Ceredwyn is awarded to Finnvarr de Taahe and Sylard of Eagleshaven is made a companion of the Order of the Laurel and the Shire of Noergate is founded.

February of the eighteenth year of the Society saw Sir Hugo, the first native King of northland blood, depart with his lady Rowena for the Kingdom of An Tir.

At the annual Twelfth Night the Cauldron of Ceredwyn was awarded to Duke Sir Finnvarr de Taahe.

In April the people of the north held an arts and sciences competition at which many wonderful works were shown. Many awards were granted to recognize the skills of their crafters. Most notable of all was Sylard of Eagleshaven’s induction into the Order of the Laurel for his metalwork.

Somewhere around this time the Shire of Noergate was first founded. Though the shire’s lands for a time went untilled, people returned to Noergate around AS 30 and it is still active to this day.

AS 19, in which Ben Dunfirth held the first Murder Melee In The Meadow, Sylard of Eagleshaven is sainted, Tarver the Pole and Caffa Muirath craft a shield for the Princess of the Middle Kingdom, talk of a Region of the northlands begins, Septentria again distinguish itself at the Pennsic War, Fiona Averil of Maidenhead receives the Cauldron of Ceredwyn, those intent of fighting in the Regional Championship Tourney declare themselves, and collars of state are chosen.

On the sixteenth day of June, the canton of Ben Dunfirth held a two-day tournament for the practice of martial skills in anticipation of war once again in the Debatable Lands. A series of team melees and bridge battles were fought with Barak Sir Hasdrubal’s fighters taking the day. The Murder Melee is still held to this day.
            At this same event the three miracles of St. Sylard were performed. What these miracles were are at this time unknown to this scribe. This same St. Sylard would one day have a convent dedicated to him, known as the Daughters of St. Sylard.

Lord Tarver the Pole, known long for his great height, strength and skill at the arts of peace and war, did craft a mighty shield. This shield was given unto the Baroness, and Caffa did paint it with the arms of the Princess of the Middle Kingdom. This shield was then given to Princess Fern de la Foret, and she bore it into battle. She was the first Princess of the Middle to bear her station’s arms on the field.

Septentria and Skraeling Althing, though both separate and individual entities, had both been born from the same soul and the same heart. Lady Tsivia bas Tamare v’Amberivew, who was the Deputy Midrealm Seneschal in charge of groups mundanely lying with the borders of Canada, plead with the Midrealm seneschal, Ithriliel, to let the lands mundanely known as Ontario be its own region. At this point in time, these lands had been lumped into a land mass known as Pentamer by the Midrealm Curia Regis. Ithiriel agreed, making Tsivia Regional Seneschal for Ontario, which Tsivia thereafter referred to as Argenterre (roughly ‘Silver Lands’ in French). Sir Finnvarr de Taahe then wrote an impassioned letter to the people regarding choosing a new name and designing arms for their region. And so, in the nineteenth year of the Society, a ‘grand council’ was hosted by Lady Ragni Dzintara, TSivia’s successor, where the north folk did meet. The proposed region would not be an official geographic area recognized by the Society, but the people felt a sense of unity and wanted to express it. An honorable committee was founded to organize a tournament to select a champion and consort to represent the region.

Sir Mordain Blackcloak commanded the combined forces of the baronies of Septentria and Skraeling Althing at that year’s Pennsic War in an act of solidarity. Under his captaincy, the northland forces took the north bridge as the Middle Kingdom won the battle.
            In the woods battle the Septentrian and Skraeling forces were set to guard a back road with only a small force. To their surprise the entire Eastern army marched along that same road and they fought a pitched and hopeless battle. Though the northland force was decimated, they fought gloriously and to the end.

At the baronial Twelfth Night the Cauldron of Ceredwyn was again awarded, this time to Lady Fiona Averil of Maidenhead. At this same event the first canton taxes are paid in the form required by Aedan and Caffa. That is, each canton produced a spear bearing a pennon of the canton’s device. A number of warriors here declared their intent to take part in the tourney for the regional champion, and announced their consort’s name.

On the tenth day of March a second moot was called for further discussion of the proposed region. The name proposed for the region was Ealdormere, and Septentria was strong in its support of the endeavour. It was also decided that the Ursus would become the region’s chronicle as it was then widely read.

The next month the region held an Arts and Sciences Decathlon on the thirteenth day. The event was hosted by the canton of Vest Yorvik and is most memorable for it was on this day that the wolf was selected as the animal to represent the Region of Ealdormere.
            The event also saw Lady Mordreth Llanelli Colwyn’s designs for the Collars of State chosen for the forthcoming champion and consort to wear. At this time all others who wished to grace the lists of the Regional Championship Tourney declared themselves and their consorts. In all eighteen good gentles did declare themselves. One of these, Iago, also called Yog the Undesirable or Yog Rhys Mordwyn, was admitted though he was not armigerous, and this was a requirement. Twelve other members of the populace did stand and attest to his virtue and if this was done, he could partake in the tourney. So did Yog’s strange journey begin, and more of it shall be written of later.


AS 20, in which Mordreth Llanelli Colwyn is made a companion of the Order of the Laurel, Eoforwic celebrates its 10th anniversary, the Regional Championship Tournament is held, Yog the Undesirable makes a heroic stand, Septentria begins its war traditions, the Cauldron of Ceredwyn is awarded to Ricard of Sabletree, and the Proscription begins.


In May Mordreth Llanelli Colwyn was elevated to the Order of the Laurel for her culinary skills. Thus she became the first Master of this art within the Kingdom. This is the same Mordreth whose designs for the collar of state had just been chosen.

On the twentieth day of July in the twentieth year of the Society did Eoforwic celebrate its tenth anniversary. To mark this occasion the Royal Citie did host the Regional Championship Tournament. Yog, he who has been mentioned before, was late to arrive and almost missed the tournament completely. The rules of the lists were scrupulously held to and many fighters had to cut their shields down to the required size. The fighting was honourable but fierce, and truly one good gentle received such a resounding blow to his most important piece of armour that it was split in twain.
            Well and true the combatants fought and in the Lists Yog was undefeated, besting both Lord Tarver the Pole and Lord Belgar Thorbjorn in the finals. At court Yog and his consort, the Lady Hannorah O’Neil, were invested as the regional Champion and Consort. The collars of state were brought forth and the populace marveled. Mordreth, with the assistance of Sylard, had upon the collars depicted such things as the four elements, the Tree of Life, the Bear of Septentria, the Hare of Skraeling Althing, the Wolf of Ealdormere and many more besides.

Once again hostilities had broken out between the Middle and East Kingdoms and the people of the region of Ealdormere did march to war. In the field battle Yog, the new champion of the Region, did here make a glorious final stand. For there was much bloodshed upon the field as bodies fell to lie on the earth. When the combatants paused Yog found that only he and James mac Art of Tree-Girt-Sea remained of the mighty Midlands army. The East, not wishing to be unchivalrous, did agree to battle the remaining two soldiers in single combat. James fought first and was killed. Yog then battled long and hard and defeated many men until at long last he fell. To commemorate this Corin the Sun-King, monarch of the Middle, did award Yog the Dragon’s Tooth.
            This war saw the first appearance of the scarlet tabards of Septentria. They had been made by Domenica of Welfengau and featured the golden bear. The fighters also bore scarlet cords, plaited by Hannorah and her ladies as tokens. Also at this war Septentria began its long tradition of bearing much guard duty of the Midrealm royal encampment. Septentria continues this tradition to this day, though now they help guard the Ealdormere Royal encampment.

In September Yog began his tradition of giving the most promising fighter in a tourney a sword and gauntlet. The swords were red-hilted, and the gauntlets decorated in brass. This began at a Tournament of Romance in Der Welfengau.

Vest Yorvik hosted that year’s Twelfth Night celebration, at which the Cauldron of Ceredwyn was awarded to Master Ricard of Sabletree.

James MacAndrews did at this time come to be the baronial champion, though this was never an official title. He first wore the Baroness’s favour at the Festival of Maidens in Würm Wald.

At a tournament held by Vest Yorvik in February the Trillium Herald, Fiona Avril of Maidenhead decided that the reproductive organ of the golden Septentrian bear should be blue thenceforth.

In this same month two letters did come by messenger to the king of the Middle Kingdom, who was at this time Alan Elegil. The first was from Lady Hannorah, champion’s consort of Ealdormere, who wrote of Ealdormereans deserving of awards. The second was from Lord James MacAndrews, containing a proposition of Ealdormere becoming a full principality of the Middle Kingdom. When the King of the Dragon Thrones read these letters he shrieked in rage and then he struck down the idea of regions, claiming that any who supported such an idea were heretics and traitors to the Crown of the Middle. He did so by calling the minimum number of officers necessary to enact a law, a law which prohibited any geographic area within the kingdom from calling itself a region, or by a regional name, or to chose for itself a champion. This was called the ‘Washroom Curia’ for, as the story goes, the king held the meeting in a privy with only his closest supporters. The king did not have the courage to face the folk of the northlands when his proscription was passed down, and sent his Prince, Palymar of the Two Baronies, and his Palea herald, Mistress Graidhne, to announce the edict. This duty later pained Palymar’s heart, for he would one day become a great friend of the north folk. He brought them the dire news at the Passing Of The Ice Dragon in Rhydderich Hael, in the Kingdom of Aethlamarc, where many Ealdormereans were always in attendance. Though the Middle Kingdom Seneschal, the Countess Genevieve, was present at the event, she would not face the folk of the north.
            The folk of Ealdormere were confused, angry and distraught. They knew not why they were being so punished. If they had erred against the king, should they have not had a chance to atone before being so punished? Those present returned to Septentria and Skraeling Althing and word did spread throughout the land. There was much wailing and gnashing of teeth. To this day there are Ealdormereans who refuse to speak the name of this king.

That same month James MacAndrews, who served as Eoforwic’s pursuivant, was stripped of his office by the Dragon Herald, Baron Charles O’Connor. The baron herald said that James was unable to hold the office as he was an Eastern herald, though all knew this was no longer so. Many grumbled that James was being punished for proposing the formation of the Principality of Ealdormere.

Though the idea of Ealdormere was now an outlawed thing, still it lived on in the hearts of all the north folk, especially in those who lived in the land of the Bear. Both Aedan and Caffa helped keep the people’s hearts and hopes alive, in the belief that eventually, Ealdormere would be free and recognized. Indeed, Lord Alistair Kirk of Inness points out that this proscription helped formalize the animal totem of Ealdormere. For the term “wolf’s head” means outlaw, and many in the north were proud to be wolf’s heads. These dark days were known as the Proscription, and were written of by Baron Aedan in his story “The Doom of Ealdormere.”


AS 21, in which a champion of Septentria-Skraeling Althing-Noergate is chosen, Septentria is sought at Pennsic, Caffa Muirath is elevated to the Order of the Laurel, Septentria almost single handedly guards the Midlands Royalty, John of Slaughterfield is made Queen’s Champion, and Robert of Two Cliffs is awarded the Cauldron of Ceredwyn

In June a tournament was held in the Barony of Skraeling Althing. The winner of this tournament was to be the champion of Septentria, Skraeling Althing and Noergate. So did John of Slaughterfield become Ealdormere’s champion in all but name. His consort was Lady Deirdre of Carlysle.

At the Pennsic War, as the generals met to plan strategy, Duke Laurelin Darksbane, Baron of the Cleftlands, was asked what troops he would have under his command. “Septentria,” he replied. Though the forces of Septentria would be lost in the coming battles due honour was paid the barony as their warriors were amongst those most sought after that war.
            At this same war Baroness Caffa was made a companion of the Order of the Laurel for her carving and she was showered with laurel leaves. Also, Septentrians continued their traditions as guards, and verily when someone passed by the Middle Kingdom encampment it was invariably Septentrians guarding the gate.

By November King Alen was long dead. His son Palymar had ruled justly and well, and now Palymar’s own son Emrys sat the throne with his Queen Emmelynne. In this month Emrys and Emmelynne did travel to the Feast Of Bacchus in Rising Waters and there they recognized the people and lands that had been so maligned under their grandparents’ rule. For James MacAndrews, who had been stripped of his pursuivant’s office, was made a companion of the Order of the Willow. Also, John of Slaughterfield, champion of Septentria, Skraeling Althing and Noergate was made the Queen’s Champion. Indeed, their Majesties gave the Spear of the Middle Kingdom into the keeping of the Barony of Septentria at this time.

As the winter drew on once again the barony held its Twelfth Night at Trinovantia where Robert of Two Cliffs was awarded the Cauldron of Ceredwyn.


AS 22, in which the canton of Steinbach is founded, a Septentria – Trimaris rivalry begins over land at Pennsic War, the squires of Septentria help guard the Queen of the Middle, Aedan na Kincora is made a companion of the Order of the Laurel, talk of a Barony of Rising Water begins but is stopped, the cauldron of Ceredwyn is awarded to Talymar gan y Lyn and Eislinn the Patient, Eislinn passes away, the Middle Kingdom Seneschal steps down, and Septentrians prove their generosity to the East Kingdom

A new canton, called Steinbach, was founded in May. It was near the Stony Creek, by Ben Dunfirth. Like many others this canton enjoyed brief prosperity then faded from our histories.

There was a rivalry that year between Septentria and Trimaris at the Pennsic War this year, for the East Kingdom had given camping land to Trimaris that Septentria claimed as its own.
            Here too did a call go out for all the squires of the Middle Kingdom to form an honour guard for Eislinn, daughter of Emrys and Emmelynne, and Queen to Talymar III. So great was their love of the Queen that Septentrians who were not squires rallied to her banner. In this way many of the Citie of Eoforwic and many from the canton of Petrea Thule did serve the Queen. Each person who fought for the Queen was presented with a token. Thorbjorn Osis Brandson, of beloved memory, fought in that august company and counted it as one of his proudest moments. The Guard fought well and bravely under the leadership of Sir Fernanda de la Foret, an old friend of Ealdormere. When the war was over, Eislinn made them all companions of the Order of the Queen’s Favour. This Order was closed upon the end of her reign.
            For long had Baron Aedan na Kincora toasted hall and field with brew of his own distilling. His skill was here recognized by the Crown, and Aedan was elevated to the Order of the Laurel.

In the cold winds of December the cantons of Rising Waters, Ben Dunfirth and Steinbach talked of joining together to form a new barony.  They had the blessings of the Baron and Baroness of Septentria, but the king’s seneschal, Baron Thyrm Odomsson, called Cein, said that for a canton to become a barony it must first become a shire. No one had heard of this custom before, and word was brought to King Eliahu, who was Talymar III’s successor. The King, and his queen, Elen, did put Thyrm on probation, and made matters clear that if he displeased them again during that time he would be stripped of his office.
           
At the yearly Twelfth Night, at which the Baron and Baroness wore shoes shaped remarkably like the paws of bears, did award the Cauldron of Ceredwyn to Duke Talymar and Duchess Eislinn. Also at this Twelfth Night was a moot held at which the people of the northlands, which called their land Ealdormere, would place a Prince from amongst them to rule over them.

That very next month word came that Duchess Eislinn, who had been in ill health, had passed away. Eislinn, of blessed memory, was a true friend of all the people of Ealdormere.

In April Thyrm Odomsson was encouraged by the King to release his office. Many folk of the northlands were glad, as they saw in Thyrm the last in a line of seneschals that stretched back to the ‘Washroom Curia’. A new seneschal, Myrra, was made, and she was a friend to the north.

The Queen of the East Kingdom, Sedalia I, celebrated her birthday in July and many Eoforings traveled to the Debatable Lands to celebrate with her. Only two people in attendance that day did give gifts unto the Queen. The first was Mistress Graidhne, and the second was James MacAndrews, and neither hailed from the East.


AS 23, in which Ealdormere is granted Principality status, Aerdigwidder von Zauberberg of Andelcrag is given a Bear’s Claw, the Corps of Septentrian Enginiators distinguish themselves, David Martin Failsworth and Tangwystl Siwan Failsworth are awarded the Cauldron of Ceredwyn, Rising Waters splits off from Septentria, and Aedan na Kincora and Caffa Muirath are inducted into the Order of the Pelican.

Though in Aedan’s tale Ealdormere was indeed doomed and slain, in truth she prevailed and in August Anno Societatus XXIII she did become a fully recognized Principality of the Middle Kingdom.
            In fact, Aedan left an indelible mark upon the new Principality, a mark that is still with us to this day. For the proclamation of Ealdormere’s new status was made at Pennsic War, and Prince Reynard, heir to the throne of the Middle Kingdom, came to Aedan’s camp to celebrate. Aedan, who had been named Lord Lieutenant of Ealdormere, toasted the new Principality with a great “Waeshael!” and this was to become the cheer of the northlands for ever after. Around that same fire another Ealdormerean tradition was begot by Septentrians (or so the story goes). Two Eoforings, being John of Slaughterfield and Alistair Kirk of Inness, toasted Prince Reynard as His Lupine Highness. Forever after this would be how Ealdormereans referred to their Majesties and Highnesses, as that of Lupine.
            Ealdormere’s final rise to Principality status came about thusly:  first Graidhne did speak with the Dragon Herald, who was at that time Fiona Avril of Maidenhead and who said that the king and seneschal might agree to create such a principality. Fiona asked Graidhne to procure a charter, and she went to James MacAndrews, who had first made the proposition in print, and he did draft a charter. The charter was given from James to Graidhne to Fiona to Myrra of Black Wood who was seneschal. And Myrra did go unto the king and begged for a charter for the Principality of Ealdormere be drafted. To this the king agreed and the charter was produced. The charter was discussed by the King’s Council and was found to be good and they discussed said charter with Baron Aedan, Baroness Caffa and Baroness Enid of Skraeling Althing. The Society Steward was the final person to be consulted, and this steward was Sir Hilary of Serendip, who had proposed years ago to James that Ealdormere should become a Principality.
            So it can be seen that the stars were right, and the will of land was with Ealdormere, for in every office Ealdormere did find a friend. At Great Court that Pennsic War King Corwin and Queen Shanna did make themselves Prince and Princess of Ealdormere, and Aedan and Enid Lord and Lady Lieutenant of Ealdormere until such time as the Principality should produce its own Prince and Princess. Aedan and Enid were granted seats on the King’s Council and there was much rejoicing amongst the populace of the new principality, and amongst those who were its friends.

Also at this year’s Pennsic War, Ritter Baron Karl Sir Aerdigwidder von Zauberberg of Andelcrag was given a Bear’s Claw for his forces efforts with Septentria upon the field. The Corps of Septentrian Enginiators distinguished themselves with their siege engines as well.

At the baronial Twelfth Night, David Martin Failsworth and Tangwystl Siwan Failsworth were awarded the Cauldron of Ceredwyn.

The same year that Ealdormere was recognized as a Principality, the Barony of Septentria once again gave birth to a child. The Barony of Rising Waters was formed from the vine-rich lands to the southeast. Rising Waters took with it the canton of Ben Dunfirth which would become a barony in its own right in Anno Societatus XXIX.

Around this same time, the Ursus, which had been used as a newsletter for the region, once again became Septentria’s newsletter. A new unnamed newsletter (later known as the Tidings) began to be published for the principality.

Also that year, at the Coronation of Palymar II and Katherine II, King and Queen of the Middle Kingdom, were both Baron Aedan and Baroness Caffa inducted into the grand Order of the Pelican in recognition of their service to the barony and the region. For both served not only as Baron and Baroness, but also as officers.


AS 24, in which Eoforwic hosts a Royal Coronation, Aedan na Kincora is given command of Ealdormere at War, David Martin Failsworth is made a knight of the Society,  and Angharad of Nankivel is awarded the Cauldron of Ceredwyn, and David Martin Failsworth and Tangwystl Siwan Failsworth are named Ealdormere’s first Prince and Princess

In May, the Royal Citie of Eoforwic hosted the coronation of King Palymar II and Queen Katharine II.

At Pennsic XVIII, one year after the raising of Ealdormere to Principality status, Baron Aedan, Lord Lieutenant of Ealdormere, was given command of the entire Principality force to lead on the field. It is said that Aedan led Ealdormere to glorious victory, though the War itself was lost.

Angharad of Nankivel was awarded the Cauldron of Ceredwyn at the barony’s Twelfth Night celebrations.

At Clancy Day, on March tenth, David Martin Failsworth was raised to the Order of Chivalry.

On the seventh day of April in the twenty-fourth year of the Society, Ealdormere did hold its very first Coronet Tournament. And it was a good and a just thing that Syr David Martin Failsworth did that day take the field for his inspiration, Lady Tangwystl Siwan Failsworth. It was just and good for David then hailed from Der Welfengau, then within the lands of Septentria. Septentria, the birthplace and heart of Ealdormere, did give Ealdormere her first Prince. This same Syr David would later go on to even greater things, and more of him is written elsewhere in this chronicle.


AS 25, in which Thorbjorn Osis Brandson and Ragnheithr Thorbjarnarsdottir reign as Prince and Princess, Barony Nordskogen returns Septentrian relics, Adrielle Kerrec is worshipped by Trimarian squires, Rhiannon of Wye is raised to the Order of the Laurel, Septentria names a Hero, the College of Skeldergate is founded, Vest Yorvik thinks of becoming a barony, Frederic L'Avarre and Tamarra Amalthea de Romany are awarded the Cauldron of Ceredwyn, Osis Thorbjornson and Cordigan d’Arnot enter the White Bear Fion and the canton of Ardchreag is founded

At the Pennsic War, Barony Nordskogen learned that they were camping on ancestral Septentrian ground. Finding some relics of a dead giant (which looked remarkably like chicken bones), they returned them to Septentria with much pomp and ceremony. It was also reported that several Trimarian squires revered Lady Adrielle Kerrec (later Baroness of Septentria) for her ability to gargle with a drink called by them ‘Southern Comfort’. That she could breath fire after doing so is considered to be apocryphal. Lady Rhiannon of Wye was raised to the Order of the Laurel.

About this same time Septentria named its first, and to date only, Hero. For Baron Aedan and Baroness Caffa had no reward to give Lord Lothar von Wulfing for his martial skill at Pennsic War that they felt would do him justice. So Hero they named him, for Hero he was. No other gentle has ever since been so honoured.

During the winter of Anno Societatus XXV two good gentles did travel from Ben Dunfirth to attend a university within the borders of Septentria. This was Osric Caertinn na Conchullain and his lady, Cualgne, and they did rediscover the ruins of Noerlanda. Perhaps not knowing that winter is not the best time of year for construction they nevertheless began to rebuild this long-dead canton. To aid them they found Ursula na Clan na Rath, now a Baroness of the Court, and a surviving member of doomed Noerlanda. When the construction was complete around November, they stood back and looked at their work and they knew it to be good. Rather than again calling the canton Noerlanda, the populace called it the College of Skeldergate (though now it is a canton). Since they could find no documentation to prove they did not fall within the Citie of Eoforwic’s domains, by calling themselves a college, they avoided any geographical disputes with their neighbours. This land of owls would become known for the strength of its fighters, and would give birth to the Hrogn fra Osis, the personal household of Duke Sir Thorbjorn Osis Brandson and Duchess Mistress Caitlin Stuart. At the time I scribe these words, three Ealdormerean kings have come from the canton of Skeldergate. The first was Osis, who ruled too briefly, and whose Queen, Caitlin Stuart reigned on alone; the second was Berus Wolfsonne Jarl who ruled with Countess Marion FitzWilliam; the third was Count Aaron Preslee (now Worgonsson) and Rustique du Sorde. Of all these good gentles more is written elsewhere in this chronicle.

Also that winter the canton of Vest Yorvik did think upon trying to achieve baronial status in its own right. However, the proper procedures were not followed, the idea was struck down, and the people of Vest Yorvik did not pursue the matter.

At the baronial Twelfth Night festivities, Frederic L'Avarre and Tamarra Amalthea de Romany were awarded the Cauldron of Ceredwyn. Aedan and Caffa announced that they were planning to step down from the Ursine thrones.

On the ninth day of February, at the Quest for Spring, an event hosted by Vest Yorvik, Sir Osis Thorbjornson and Lord Cordigan d’Arnot successfully challenged into the White Bear Fion.

In April of the twenty-fifth year of the Society, a group of archers set forth from Eoforwic and founded a settlement to the east upon cliffs overlooking the Inland Seas. These hearty and hale folk soon established a land renowned for skill at the bow, and the folk who lived in that canton called it Ardchreag.

 

AS 26, in which David Martin Failsworth and Tangwystl Siwan Failsworth reign as King and Queen of the Middle, Flaming Sky leaves Septentria, Septentria is awarded the Purple Fretty, the White Bear Fian is founded, Cordigan d’Arnot and Diane d’Arnot are invested as Baron and Baroness, House Eagleshaven dissolves for a time, the Ramshaven talks begin, and House Galbraith appears.

In May the same Syr David Martin Failsworth who did win the first Coronet of Ealdormere gave another crown to his Lady Tangwystl, that of the Kingdom of the Middle. And so David did become the second King of the Middle Kingdom to hail from Ealdormere, and yet still greater things awaited David in the future.

Also in May, the canton of Flaming Sky did succeed from Septentria and become a shire, citing geographical distance from the other cantons as cause.

Three months later, Septentria was given a grand honour by the Crown of the Middle. For the Midlands did bestow upon the jewel of its northern lands a Purple Fretty, in recognition of the service the Barony had provided to the kingdom over the years.
 
Since Septentria did not have many knights at this time, and as Aedan and Caffa wanted to promote the arts of chivalry they founded the White Bear Fian around this time. The Fian was a military order that one had to challenge into. The prospective member had to be not only a fighter of some skill, but had to be accomplished in some manner off the field as well. If the Fian felt the challenge was just and good, they would select one of their number to face the challenger. The first members of the Fian were Master Alasdair of Raasay, Lord Ceallac cu Meallian, Earl Syr David Martin Failsworth, Duke Sir Finnvarr de Taahe and Lord Tai Chin Wu. The Fian continued under the guidance of Aedan and Caffa’s successors, but it would for a time fall into obscurity.

June did see Baron Aedan and Baroness Caffa withdraw from the Ursine thrones after ruling the Barony for ten years. In this time they had both been raised to the Order of the Laurel, the Order of the Pelican, and had brought Septentria much success on the field and in the hall. They retired the Cauldron of Ceredwyn, and it was later given into their care as they were most worthy of it.
Cordigan and Diane d’Arnot were then invested as Baron and Baroness of Septentria. Cordigan was a respected fighter who would one day be Prince of Ealdormere, as well as being an accomplished bard. As his lady Diane inspired him, so did he inspire his people through song and deed. Many thought the new Baron and Baroness distant, but some say they kept themselves apart as they knew upon Their investiture that Septentria would soon be split, and did not want to get too close to the populace in fear of causing emotional harm when the day came.

At this same time, Master Sylard of Eagleshaven disbanded his household. House Eagleshaven, mercenaries and Guards to Aedan and Caffa, would disappear for a time, but would eventually return.

The very next month talks were reported in Septentria’s chronicle, The Ursus, of Septentria’s western lands who, by Royal decree, had to secede and form a new barony. Cordigan and Diane supported this endeavour, and declared their intention to run for the thrones of this new barony (eventually called Ramshaven). And so the eastern Septentrian lands once again looked for successors to the Ursine thrones.

Around this time did House Galbraith make its arrival in Septentria (first making Eoforwic its home, though many members later moved to Skeldergate and Ramshaven). This House would have a long and lasting effect upon not just the barony, but the entire kingdom as it was a House of most gifted artisans including the bard Garraed Galbraith (now a Master of the Laurel, and former apprentice of Master Hector of the Black Height) and Lady Domhnail and Lord Corwyn Galbraith, mighty horn carvers, cooks and brewers. This is the same Corwyn and Domhnail who would go on to become the fifth Baron and sixth Baroness of Septentria, and of whom more is written elsewhere in this chronicle.

In August Septentria did once again send its forces south to the Debatable Lands for the great Pennsic War. Aedan did lead his barony into battle as in days of old (for this year he did not lead all of Ealdormere) and Baroness Caffa did strike fear into her foes with her skill with spear and strange habit of stroking it and laughing.


AS 27, in which the barony searched for heirs and attended the first Orangeville Medieval Fair.

In this year the people of Septentria searched for candidates to be the Heirs of the Ursine thrones. There was concern that Septentria would loose up to two thirds of their fighters in the proposed baronial division.

On July eighteenth to nineteenth Ealdormere attends the first Orangeville Medieval Festival, which was Septentria’s largest demo ever. Amongst other deeds, Lady (now Duchess) Eanor of Amberhall and Lord (now Sir Jarl) Berus Wolfsonne authorized in armoured combat.


AS 28, in which the canton of Monadh is founded, the canton of Bryn Rekhart (Caer Draeth) is founded, Ieuan McKellmore and Adrielle Kerrec are invested as Baron and Baroness, the Septentrian Archery Corps is re-founded, Cordigan d’Arnot and Diane d’Arnot reign as Prince and Princess and the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor is awarded to Inez de Carmen Maria de Freitas.

In the twenty-eighth year of our Society, former baronial Seneschal Adrielle Kerrec and Ieuan McKellmore were chosen to be the Baron and Baroness of Septentria. Ieuan and Adrielle did not appoint baronial champions as they both fought and took great honour in being the barony’s champions in all things. However, each year they did recognize two individuals by making them skudifers. These shield-bearers accompanied the Baron and Baroness upon the field of battle. Both Aedan na Kincora and Caffa Muirath, who had since retired, returned to witness the investiture and bestowed upon the new Baron and Baroness many ancient Septentrian artifacts long thought lost.

Adrielle and Ieuan appointed a new baronial harpist, and chose Lady Aveline de la Rose for the role. Aveline had been one of Mistress Rhiannon’s apprentices and this choice was wise and good.
            They continued the giving of ring and arm rings and encouraged the populace to likewise recognize each other.

In war Septentria had always made its mighty presence felt, on the field and on the range. At Pennsic War in the twenty-eighth year of the Society the Septentrian Archery Corps was re-formed. For though Septentrians loved to fight, they also loved to arch. (You have but to ask a cliff-dweller of Ardchreag, a Thulegan or a Monadhie.)
            This war also saw the first arm ring passed from one member of the populace to another. Master Hector of the Black Height did so honour Ulvar van der Nederlanden, known as the Officer, and asked him to pass that ring, or another, on to someone else in a year and a day. Thus was a Septentrian tradition born that continues to this day.

August of this same year saw the first meeting of those who would eventually found the Canton of Monadh, the land of thistles and sheep and bearded men. Monadh was home to the young Saxon Lord Cynred who, along with Lady Gaerwen of Trafford, who dwelled in Eoforwic, would become Ursine Excellencies in years to come. Monadh was also home to many famed artisans who traveled to its borders from all over Septentria. Over the years many would call the thistly hills home including Master Sylard of Eagleshaven, Mistress Mordreth Llanelli Colwyn, His Lordship Robert le Sawyer and Mistress Breanaidh ni Naoimin. Breanaidh it was who crafted the Principality Coronets and the Kingdom Crowns of Ealdormere. The famed Cloak of Septentria was fashioned in Monadh, by the skilled hands of Signora Leonora daLiliaceae.

In October the Canton of Bryn Rekhart (now known as Caer Draeth) was formed.
Caer Draeth was home to many skilled artisans and fighters and would in later years earn renown for the skills of its chefs and cooks. It would also produce a future baronial champion, of whom more will be said later.

The Twelfth Night saw a new Septentrian award given. In remembrance of the Cauldron of Ceredwyn, Ieuan and Adrielle founded the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor to be awarded to those who embodied the spirit and heart of Septentria. The first to be awarded the Cup was Lady Inez de Carmen Maria de Freitas, now known as Inez Rosanera de Rosconi.


AS 29, in which Thorbjorn Osis Brandson I and Valthona Cuthbert reign as King and Queen of the Middle Kingdom, David Martin Failsworth II and Elina de Braose reign as Prince and Princess, Ramshaven splits off from Septentria, and Thevenin de la Cote d’Azure is awarded the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor.

Sir Thorbjorn Osis Brandson of Septentria did win the Crown of the Middle Kingdom for his Queen Valthona, in May of the twenty-ninth year of the Society. In this same year Earl Syr David Martin Failsworth and Lady Elina de Braose did hold the coronets of Ealdormere.

At this time Ramshaven split from Septentria, with Cordigan d’Arnot and Diane d’Arnot invested as its first Baron and Baroness.

The Cup was once again awarded at Twelfth Night, this time to Lord (now Master) Thevenin de la Cote d’Azure.


AS 30, in the canton of Eoforwic celebrates its 20th anniversary, talk of Ealdormere’s seceding from the Middle Kingdom begins, and Leonora daLiliaceae is awarded the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor.

The thirtieth year of the Society saw some small turmoil as Septentrians dealt with all the changes to their barony following the split with Ramshaven. Baron Ieuan and Baroness Adrielle urged Septentrians to wear the White Bear proudly and say, “Within my breast beats the heart of the Bear.” Ieuan and Adrielle truly believed that Septentria was the heart and soul of Ealdormere and encouraged the populace to wear the bear in many ways. They would often make bear tabards which They awarded to newly authorized fighters and archers.

In August Eoforwic did celebrate its twentieth anniversary. At this same time, Ealdormere’s thoughts had turned to becoming a Kingdom in its own right. It had gone through the small steps of the child-nation and was now ready to emerge as an adult Kingdom. Ieuan and Adrielle addressed the people and stressed that they were loyal to the Middle Kingdom, as indeed Their station and honour demanded, but strongly hinted that They were more loyal to Septentria and its people. They said, “Over the summer months many serious allegations have been bantered around the Barony, and indeed the Kingdom; the Crown has exercised Its right to Banish several members of the populace. We would like to take this opportunity to express Our personal opinions on this matter: We have sworn an oath to uphold the Laws and Customs of the Middle Kingdom, and We will keep our Oath sworn word. However, We would like to publicly acknowledge that all the people of Septentria are always welcome in Our hearts and Our home. The oath We have sworn to Ourselves and to you, the people, shall always be foremost in Our hearts.” These words were slightly seditious, and it was perhaps only luck that kept the wrath of the banishers from the Baron and Baroness’ heads.

Signora Leonora daLiliaceae was this year awarded the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor at Twelfth Night.


AS 31, in which Thorbjorn Osis Brandson II and Caitlin Stuart II reign as King and Queen of the Middle Kingdom, Edouard Beausoleil and Eanor of Amberhall reign as King and Queen of Drachenwald, David Martin Failsworth challenges the populace, and Nicolae Cioranu is awarded the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor.


Sir (now Duke) Edouard Beausoleil and Lady (now Duchess) Eanor of Amberhall had traveled from their home, the Royal Citie of Eoforwic, to the Kingdom of Drachenwald. Eanor had gone to that far-off land to pursue her studies, and in their time there Edouard did win a Crown tournament to make himself King and Eanor Queen. They ruled from June until January.

From October until March another kingdom found itself under the rule of Septentrians for Sir Thorbjorn Osis Brandson did win the Crown of the Midlands for himself and his lady Caitlin Stuart.

At Septentrian Twelfth Night, Earl Syr David challenged all denizens of Septentria to proudly display the White Bear in as many ways as possible. This was a just and good challenge, and for over a year this would be a rallying cry for the highly patriotic members of the Barony. At this same event the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor was given unto Dom Nicolae Ciroanu.


AS 32, in which Berus Wolfsonne and Marion FitzWilliam reign as the last Territorial Prince and Princess of the Principality of Ealdormere, the canton of Whit’s End (Greenhithe) is founded, the Septentrian Archive is founded, Ieuan McKellmore leaves for the Crusades leaving Adrielle Kerrec to rule alone, Cynred Broccan is the first Commissar of the Ealdormere Commissariat and is awarded the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor.

The last territorial Prince and Princess of the Principality of Ealdormere was (now Jarl) Berus Wolfsonne and (now Countess) Marion FitzWilliam. Their descendents would reign as true and noble Kings and Queens of a free kingdom.

Ardchreag was a large township that did claim much land and, in the thirty-second year of the Society, a small collective began to grow in lands claimed by both Ardchreag and Petrea Thule. This band eventually formed a proto-incipient canton called Whit’s End. This keep was built on rocky shoals, and it eventually tumbled into the Inland Sea. However, the people there were hearty folk and they rebuilt, calling the new keep Greenhithe. Not long after, Lord Ulrich von der See, of beloved memory, would bring a petition to the town leaders of Ardchreag and Petrea Thule and with his skills of diplomacy (and the giving of many gifts) did convince them to allow Greenhithe to extend its borders to the area of Heber Downs.

In July the Septentrian Baronial Chronicler, Hlaford Cynred Broccan, he who would go on to great things, did state his intention to create a baronial archive wherein would be stored copies of the Ursus, local newsletters, event flyers and other items of historical value. This work would continue for many years, as other Septentrians (this humble scribe amongst them) would continue this important work.

Also in July, at Market Day, Baron Ieuan surprised the populace by announcing that he had to leave for the Crusades to purge his sins. With the blessing of the Crown, Baroness Adrielle’s reign continued. At this time Adrielle thought it proper to appoint a baronial champion to help her defend the barony. For this role she appointed Lord Rhys ap Bledri, squire to Syr Mordain Blackcloak, who was himself a former Septentrian champion. As was traditional in the northlands, a collar was crafted bearing the arms of the barony and of the various champions.

At War Adrielle led Septentria into battle as Caffa did of old, with spear in hand. She commanded the Woods Battle and for her skills was awarded the Peregrine.
            This war also saw the birth of the Ealdormere Commissariat. This support unit fed the warriors of Ealdormere on the field, providing them nourishment and strength to carry on the fight. Members of the commissariat came from across the land, and the first Commissar was Hlaford Cynred Broccan. At the time of this writing Lady Gabriel de Champagne, of the canton of vest Yorvik, serves as the Commissarina.

At Bonfield Battle in September it was reported that Ieuan had died while on crusade.

That same Cynred who had just founded the Septentrian Archive was honoured at Twelfth Night by being given the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor.


AS 33, in which treasonous Barons and Baronesses appear speaking of Ealdormerean independence, Ealdormere achieves its independence, David Martin Failsworth and Elina da Braose reign as the first King and Queen of Ealdormere, Sylard of Eagleshaven and Mordreth Llanelli Colwyn are made a Baron and Baroness of the Court, David and Elina’s  children Thorbjorn Osis Brandson and Caitlin Stuart reign after them, Cynred Broccan challenges into the White Bear Fian, Mordreth Llanelli Colwyn and Sylard of Eagleshaven are awarded the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor, and Cynred and Gaerwen of Trafford are invested as Baron and Baroness.

During this year reports began to surface of ‘treasonous’ Barons and Baroness within the northern lands who strived for Ealdormerean independence. That October Baroness Adrielle publicly stated her loyalty to “the Kingdom, um, er, Principality of Ealdormere.” A month later she did announce her plan to abdicate the Ursine throne. No link between these two events has yet been found, though not through lack of looking.
And Ealdormere did achieve its independence, and on the twenty-forth day of October, Anno Societatus XXXIII did Ealdormere Crown her first Lupine Majesties. The king was Syr David Martin Failsworth, who shared the same name as Ealdormere’s first Prince. His queen was Her Majesty Elina de Braose. The ceremony took place in the land of the boars, known as Ben Dunfirth.

On January the second King David and Queen Elina did bestow upon Master Sylard of Eagleshaven and Mistress Mordreth Llanelli Colwyn the title of Baron and Baroness of the Court.

That fall the Royal Citie of Eoforwic did hold a Lord Mayor’s Market Day at which Hlaford Cynred Broccan did successfully challenge into the White Bear Fian. Lord Evander MacLachlan, now a knight of the Society, also entered the Fian that day.

The following January, the canton of Greenhithe did host an emotional Septentrian Twelfth Night at which Adrielle Kerrec, who had announced her intention to abdicate the Ursine Thrones, named in Hlaford Cynred Broccan and Lady Gaerwen of Trafford as her successors.
            Also at Twelfth Night the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor was passed on for the last time, this time to Mistress Mordreth Llanelli Colwyn and Master Sylard of Eagleshaven.

The investiture of Cynred and Gaerwen took place in February in the shire of Bastille du Lac. During their reign Cynred and Gaerwen continued to sponsor a baronial harpist, and asked Master Rufus of Stamford to fulfill the role. In that time Cynred and Gaerwen left their mark upon the very land. For the tributary that runs through the Pikeman’s Pleasure site is known as Cynred’s Bath, due to his habit of ‘falling’ into it every year.
            They continued the truly noble art of patronage, and many good gentles would serve them in various capacities over the years. For they carried on traditions well established by Their predecessors and appointed baronial harpists, bards and champions, many of whom would go on to do great things. Some, like their first bard, Master Hector of the Black Height, were already renowned individuals.


Near the end of this year, in April, Thorbjorn Osis Brandson and Caitlin Stuart succeeded their parents David and Elina to the Lupine thrones.


AS 34, in which the Isengesitha are founded, the Lightfists are founded, Thorbjorn Osis Brandson and Bernadette of Lauren  pass away, Edouard Beausoleil and Eanor of Amberhall reign as King and Queen, and Eoforwic celebrates its 25th anniversary.

In May of the thirty-fourth year of the Society Cynred and Gaerwen did found the Isengesitha to serve as Septentria’s fyrd and this group of loyal armoured fighters, scouts and archers would become a common sight on battlefields both in Ealdormere and abroad. The Lightfists, Septentria’s fencing force, was formed a short two months later. Now that Ealdormere had achieved its rightful status as a Kingdom, Septentria’s armed forces were as enthusiastic as ever upon the field. Of course, as everyone knows, Ealdormere is blessed (some would perhaps say cursed), with strong households, and many Isen would leave the ranks of the Iron Companions to join with other Companies. Still, there was always new blood to swell the ranks of the baronial army and when the call came to arms the White Bear was always on the field.

Tragedy did then strike our Barony, and indeed our Kingdom, as word came that two Ealdormereans had died in a terrible accident. Lady Bernadette of Lauren  (also called Laureen of Der Welfengeu) and His Majesty Sir Thorbjorn Osis Brandson of Skeldergate had died, leaving our lands bereft of two truly noble gentles. Luckily, the third individual involved in the accident, Worgan McGregor, now a Master-of-Arms, and also of Skeldergate, did survive. The three had been returning from Baron Wars in the Middle Kingdom when their vehicle rolled over on the highway.
This left our lands without a King, but his Queen, the indomitable Caitlin Stuart, did continue the reign in his memory. Osis had been our king for but a month.
To commemorate these two gentles, an award was instituted in each of their memories. The Award of the Maiden’s Heart, an award for service, was dedicated to Bernadette while Osis was named patron of the martial Order of Thornbjorn’s Hammer. Osis was buried with, amongst other things, the token Queen Eislinn of the Middle had given him twelve years before.

Eoforwic, that most Royal City, did celebrate its twenty-fifth anniversary in November. Though the city was not as strong as once it had been, it was still a beacon in the northern lands, attracting many whose skills at the arts and sciences were unsurpassed. Many Ealdormerean and Septentrian relics and artifacts were shown, including a Bayeaux Tapestry version of the founding of Ealdormere.

The Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor had been retired upon Adrielle’s stepping down, and Cynred and Gaerwen did institute a like award named the Horn of Wessex. This they did at the baronial Twelfth Night. The Horn was awarded to those who truly represented Septentria and what it meant to be Septentrian. The populace was tasked to never let the Horn remain empty. The Horn was richly engraved by Lord Corwyn and Lady Domhnail Galbraith; and indeed they were its first recipients. This is the same Corwyn and Domhnail who would go on to greater things.

In April, the Thegn of Septentria, for that is how Cynred was called, and Baroness Gaerwen did extend the scope of the Baronial award known as the Bear’s Claw. Before this time the Claw had been granted to those who contributed to Septentria’s efforts at Pennsic War. Their Excellencies reasoned that now, with Ealdormere as a true Kingdom, and Septentrians traveling the Knowne World to fight on her behalf, it was only right that the Claw be given to one whose martial efforts were felt at any war. This was a noble and good idea and was welcomed by the folk of Septentria.

Also in April, Edouard Beausoleil and Eanor of Amberhall, who had returned from Drachenwald’s shores, did claim the Lupine thrones.


AS 35, in which Berus Wolfsonne and Marion FitzWilliam reign as King and Queen and Eirik Andersen is awarded the Horn of Wessex.


Edouard and Eanor ruled justly and well until September, at which time their children, Berus Wolfsonne and Marion FitzWilliam were acknowledged as King and Queen of Ealdormere.

At the Twelfth Night, Lord Eirik Andersen was awarded the Horn of Wessex.


AS 36, in which Aaron Preslee and Rustique de Sorde reign as King and Queen, Ulrich von der See passes away, the Septentrian Performing Arts Troupe is formed, the Septentrian reliquary is crafted, Aeneas Oakhammer is awarded the Horn of Wessex, the personal baronial favour is introduced and a new baronial Champion is named.


Berus and Marian’s reign ended with Roak and Carlotta ascending the thrones of Ealdormere. When Roak and Carlotta’s time was done Septentrians again were made king and queen. Aaron Preslee (now Worgansson, a Knight and a Count) and Rustique de Sorde (now a Countess) of the canton of Skeldergate ruled with quick wit, compassion and courtesy.

Tragedy then struck the canton in the June as one of its members, slated to become the next Seneschal of Septentria, passed away. This was Lord Ulrich von der See, of the cantons of Greenhithe and Ardchreag. A baronial award would later be inducted in his honour, and more of that will be told shortly.

In the winter of this year Colyne Stewart, Thorfinna gra’feldr and Crispinus Spellar founded a performing arts troupe under the patronage of Baroness Gaerwen of Trafford. It featured players from many of the cantons across the barony and was often accused of planning mischief. This is the same Crispinus Spellar who would go on to be sainted and become patron of my order.

During this year the Baroness was plagued with pains of the gall bladder and the physics did remove a bodily stone. This stone, and hairs from Cynred Thegn’s beard, were then housed in a reliquary crafted by Corwyn and Domhnail Galbraith. This reliquary was first seen at Septentrian Twelfth Night in January, and was carried by the Honourable Lord Richard Larmer in a pas d’arme tournament hosted by Ardchreag at their Snowed Inn in February. It would sit at Their Excellencies feet at many courts thereafter.
            Also at the Twelfth Night was Tighearn Aeneas Oakhammer awarded the Horn of Wessex. Aeneas would go on to become an Honourable Lord in the Order of the Wain. As well, Thorfinna gra’feldr and Colyne Stewart were named as the bards of Septentria.
               Taxes were paid in the form of a spear with a pennon bearing each canton’s device and earth from each canton within a container of some sort. This earth would then be mixed and sprinkled on the ground at courts that took place outside of Septentria’s borders (such as Pennsic). This symbolic act would make the land Septentrian land. When Skeldergate was called an apologetic Lord Aeneas Oakhammer did grovel for his canton had brought no spear and no earth. Not one to let his seneschal be embarrassed, Lord Etienne de Beauvais ran outside, scooped up a handful of loam and picked up a branch and trotted into court, head bowed low. This caused much merriment.

At the Snowed Inn a new award was introduced to the populace. It was a personal baronial favour, cast by Lady Fursto de Robnye, based on a design by Lord Ulrich von der See, who had passed away in June. The award, which carried no precedence, was to be given to those whom the thegn and baroness saw fit. The first favour was awarded to Lord Ulvar van der Nederlanden.

In March, a tournament was held in the canton of Vest Yorvik to name a successor to Lord Rhys ap Bledri as Septentria’s champion. When the battles were fought Cynred and Gaerwen thought long on who had shown not only skill in the Lists but exemplary honour and grace. Though all the combatants met these criteria, only one could win the collar. In the end They chose as Their new champion Lady Seonag nic Thomais of Caer Draeth, a member of the Isengesitha, a lady known far and near for her skill on the field and in the kitchen.


AS 37, in which Ulvar van der Nederlanden and Dafydd ap Sion are named baronial archery champions, a baronial minister of misinformation is named, Wat of Sarum fought with the strength of seven men, the Septentrian Engineering Corps works at Pennsic War, Gunnar Truthsinger is named baronial thrown weapons champion, Gareth of Eoforwic is named baronial fencing champion, Colyne Stewart and Thorfinna gra’feldr are awarded the Horn of Wessex, Aaron Preslee Worganson is elevated to the Order of the Chivalry, Septentrians teach at Casa Loma and Corwyn Galbraith and Domhnail Galbraith are invested as Baron and Baroness.


For years the folk of Petrea Thule had invited all the come and enjoy the Pikeman’s Pleasure during the month of June. In the thirty-seventh year of the Society, at the Pleasure, two good gentles were recognized as Septentria’s archery champions. Gaerwen said that both were so skilled at the bow that one could not be placed above the other. The first was Lord Ulvar van der Nederlanden, he whom had once received an arm ring from Master Hector. The second was Lord Dafydd ap Sion renowned for his love of archery and for marshaling archery all over the land.
            Also on this day was Lord Tempus Peregrinator was named as Septentria’s Officer of Misinformation. This was in recognition to the many tales he spun to the people to the south, tales of Moose Hatcheries and Wallpaper festivals, so as to confuse them at war.

At the thirty-first Pennsic War, many members of the Isengesitha took the field to uphold the honour of Septentria, but none won as much renown as Wat of Sarum. Wat hailed from the canton of Ardchreag where he was known as a crafter of chain mail. He was a pious man, but battle called to him and within his first year of activity within the Society he became an authorized fighter. Wat wished to fight for Septentria as one of the Isen, but was never able to swear fealty before the war was upon him. Undaunted he wore the bear tabard and climbed the hill each day to stand in the shield wall. That War he was the only Isen to fight in every battle. Indeed, in the bridge battle he was the only member of the army of Septentria on the field. For these acts he was recognized at Septentrian court by Cynred and Gaerwen. They said that he had fought with the strength of seven men. Wat then officially swore into the Isen and was awarded a Bear’s Claw. The Lady Thorfinna gra’feldr, then one of Their Excellencies of Septentria’s bards, immortalized Wat’s achievement in the couplet: “Wat fought/before he swore.”
Also in that court, Cynred Thegn and Gaerwen Baroness did announce Their intention to step down as Baron and Baroness of Septentria that coming February. This announcement evoked much emotion from those present and many were moved to tears.
At this same war Lord Gunnar Truthsinger, Skald to House Fenrir, was chosen to represent the barony as thrown weapons champion though he would not be publicly acknowledged until the coming Twelfth Night.

During that same War the Septentrian Engineering Corps built a sedan chair for the Mongolian reign of Khatun (Queen) Joleicia of Litchfield, consort to Khan (King) Sarnac Bahadur. This corps was also responsible for the construction of the mead hall at the Ravenhill farm in the shire (now canton) of Flaming Sky.

The following month the folk of Greenhithe did host A Day In The Country at which a fencing tourney was held. From the participants Baroness Gaerwen did select Lord Gareth of Eoforwic to be Septentria’s fencing champion. This event will long be remembered as the sky danced, wreathed in green and red flame, during a bardic circle. It was remarked that only the northern lights could up-stage Master Hector.

A very plaid Twelfth Night was hosted by Vest Yorvik on the eleventh day of January. Aeneas Oakhammer, the holder of the Horn of Wessex, did there come into court and tell all how he had painted a box to forever after house the Horn. He then asked for the privilege of calling into court the next, and last, recipient of the Horn. This was granted him. Aeneas told the history of the Horn and said as a couple had been the first holders of the Horn, so a couple should be the last. Colyne Stewart and Thorfinna gra’feldr were then summoned to appear before their Excellencies. Aeneas filled the horn and all the past holders of the Horn who were present did drink from it with Colyne and Thorfinna.
            Taxes of a war banner were to be paid at this time. The only canton to have a completed banner in attendance was the Royal Citie of Eoforwic. The populace of the citie did march behind their tall banner whilst musicians preceded it. It was a very inspiring sight. Vest Yorvik displayed a banner which was half complete, and Monadh did show a mini-banner. The cantons of Skeldergate and Ardchreag both had banners, but neither canton had brought it with them. Skeldergate’s banner had previously been seen at War, so its populace were forgiven. Ardchreag groveled and promised to bring their banner to an event by Snowed Inn. To this their Excellencies agreed, Ardchreag lavishing liquid refreshments on the Thegn and Baroness in the meantime.

On the twenty-fifth day of January at the inn of Sir Berus Jarl and Countess Marion FitzWilliam a member of Septentria’s populace was elevated to the Order of Chivalry. Count Aaron Preslee Worganson was made a knight and many gifts were lavished upon him. These included a woven white belt that had once graced the waist of Duke Sir Thorbjorn Osis Brandson, a helm that had been originally started for Osis and the chain from about the neck of Prince Darius of the East, who was in attendance.

In February the folk of Septentria were invited by the burghers of Casa Loma to come and teach what arts and sciences they would. Many from about the barony came and displayed their talents in carving, singing, dancing, fletching and various and sundry other endeavours. In return, the burghers allowed the Royal Citie of Eoforwic to hold fight practices within their castle walls. This worthy enterprise was led by many good gentles; most notably by Baroness Gaerwen of Trafford and Signora Rosalia dei Querini.

On the fifteenth day of February, after the Feast of St. Valentine, the populace gathered to celebrate the elevation of a new Baron and Baroness of Septentria. For they day appointed by Cynred and Gaerwen as the end of their reign had come. At the Snowed Inn, in the canton of Ardchreag, Corwyn and Domhnail Galbraith were officially sworn as Their Excellencies of Septentria. There was much celebrating throughout the day as Their Excellencies past and present were honoured in song, word and dance. House Hrogn fra Osis and House Fenrir both publicly stated their support of Septentria’s new coronets, and may members of the Hrogn and of House Galbraith were seen wearing Septentrian tabards. Many gifts were lavished upon Corwyn and Domhnail, including a shield that had once graced the arm of Aedan na Kincora. Many Septentrian relics were placed on display, including the Cauldron of Ceridwyn.
            The Isengesitha were released from their vows, their arm rings placed in the care of King Roak and Queen Arlette. When the time came, many swore to the new Iron Companions, to serve the barony as fighters, scouts, archers and throwers.

So now a new dawn has broken over the lands of the Bear. Glory be upon the names of Corwyn and Domhnail Galbraith—two Septentrians who have arisen to the task of overseeing our lands, and of leading us in war and in peace. Their time will be a time for other historians to record.

Here ends a History of Septentria, as penned by Brother Thomas of the Order of St. Crispinus, illuminated by Berend van der Eych and bound by Brandt das Lederwerker. The scribe must here set down his quill as the chill of the season does cause great pain to the wrists.

Long live Septentria. Long live our Baron and Baroness. Long live the Bear.

Appendix A: Sources

About Us: Our History (Caer Draeth), sca.uwaterloo.ca/Caer_Draeth/about/history.html

The Chronicle of Eoforwic of Etienne de l’ Isle including a short Account of the History of Septentria, Etienne de l’ Isle, 1982.

Codex Eboracensis II: Being the Continued Chronicles of Eoforwic in Two Gatherings, Magnus of Iona and Gusanna of Leycester, 1995.

Historie of Ardchreag, Lord Raffe Scholemaystre and Laird Colyne Stewart, 1998, 2002, www.lozengy.net/ardchrea/documents/History.htm

The History of Ealdormere, Marian of Heatherdale, The Pale, September 1998, pp. 14-26.

The History of [the Principality of] Ealdormere, Nicolaa de Bracton, 1997 or 1998. http://www.ealdormere.sca.org/principality.shtml

The History of Eoforwic: the Second Part, William of Roncesvalle, 1989.

The History of Petrea Thule, Lady Keja Tselebnika. www.pipcom.com/~thule/history


Monadh Foundation (An Excerpt from The Chronicle of Monadh I), Signora Leonora daLiliaceae www.ealdormere.sca.org/monadh/founding.html

Our Homeland, Beloved Ealdormere: A History of the Early Years, Dame Tsivia v’Amberview, OL, 1998.

Royal Genealogy of the Known World, Zahra bint al-Nahr al-Ishbiiliya al-Naariya, ealdormere.sca.org/scaroyalty/

The Third Book of the Chronicle of Eoforwic, Hyrcanos ben Jacob Porto of Oporto, 1989.

The Ursus, #52, June XXVI, #108, #122, #128, #131, #133, #134, #136, #146, #147, #153, #155, #160, #164, Jan XXIX, #182, #186, #187, #189, #191, #195, #202, volume 2 issue 2, volume 2 issue 7-9, volume 3 issue 8, volume 3 issue 10-11, volume 4 number 2, volume 4 number 5, volume 4 number 7 (A note on the numbering. Occasional issues of the Ursus were unnumbered. As such, I have given their date instead.)

Appendix B: The Reigns


The First Reign, AS 13 – AS 16

Gillian’s Device
Baron: n/a
Baroness: Gillian d’Uriel (Variant spellings: Gillian Olafsdottir d’Uriel)
Champion (Armoured Combat): A new champion was named at each tourney until Mordain Blackcloak was chosen as Gillian’s champion in July AS 15.
Archery Champion: n/a or unknown
Fencing Champion: n/a or unknown
Scouting Champion: n/a or unknown
Equestrian Champion: n/a or unknown
Thrown Weapons Champion: n/a or unknown
A&S Champion: n/a or unknown
Bard: n/a or unknown
Harpist: n/a or unknown
Special Award: n/a
Armed Forces: n/a or unknown

The Second Reign, AS 16 – AS 26

Aedan’s Device

Caffa’s Device
Baron: Aedan na Kincora (Variant spellings: Aedan na o Kincora, Aedan o Kincora)
Baroness: Caffa Muirath (Kaffa Muirath, Caffa Muiriath, Kaffar Muiriath)
Champion (Armoured Combat): James MacAndrews (AS 20)*, John of Slaughterfield (AS 21 - ?)**
Archery Champion: n/a or unknown
Fencing Champion: n/a or unknown
Scouting Champion: n/a or unknown
Equestrian Champion: n/a or unknown
Thrown Weapons Champion: n/a or unknown
A&S Champion: n/a or unknown
Bard: Hector of the Black Height (AS 24 – ?)
Harpist: Nain of Islandia/Nain na Cruitre (AS 16 - ?), Rhiannon of Wye (AS ? - ?)
Hero: Lothar von Wulfing
Baronial Master of Steel: Strygor von Talmetz (AS 17 - ?)
Special Award: Cauldron of Ceredwyn (Sylard of Eagleshaven AS 17, Finnvarr de Taahe AS 18, Fiona Averil of Maidenhead AS 19, Ricard of Sabletree AS 20, Robert of Two Cliffs AS 21, Talymar gan y Lyn and Eislinn the Patient AS 22, David Martin Failsworth and Tangwystl Siwan Failsworth AS 23, Angharad of Nankivel AS 24, Frederic L'Avarre and Tamarra Amalthea de Romany AS 25, Aedan na Kincora and Caffa Muirath AS 26) ***
Armed Forces: Septentrian Archery Corps, Septentrian Guard, White Bear Fian

*James was never officially called the baronial champion, but he wore a favour given him by Caffa which he laid down when John was made Champion of Two Baronies and the Shire.
**John was champion of Skraeling Althing and Noergate at the same time, effectively making him the unofficial champion of Ealdormere during the Proscription. John was known as ‘The Champion of Two Baronies and the Shire,’ and his consort was Lady Dierdre of Carlyle.

***As is often the case, my sources were conflicted. I have based this listing primarily on the histories of Eoforwic, which differ from the official Order of Precedence. My decision was based on the fact that many of the dates on the OoP are recognized as being guesses.

The Third Reign, AS 26 – AS 28

Cordigan’s Device

Diane’s Device
Baron: Cordigan d’Arnot
Baroness: Diane d’Arnot
Champion (Armoured Combat): n/a or unknown
Archery Champion: n/a or unknown
Fencing Champion: n/a or unknown
Scouting Champion: n/a or unknown
Equestrian Champion: n/a or unknown
Thrown Weapons Champion: n/a or unknown
A&S Champion: n/a or unknown
Bard: n/a or unknown
Harpist: n/a or unknown
Special Award: n/a
Armed Forces: n/a or unknown

The Fourth Reign, AS 28 – AS 33

Ieuan’s Device

Adrielle’s Device
Baron: Ieuan McKellmore* (Variant spellings: Ieuan McIlmoyle)
Baroness: Adrielle Kerrec
Champion (Armoured Combat): Rhys ap Bledri (AS 32 – AS 33)
Skudifers: Unknown at this time.
Archery Champion: n/a
Fencing Champion: n/a
Scouting Champion: n/a
Equestrian Champion: n/a
Thrown Weapons Champion: n/a
A&S Champion: n/a
Bard: n/a or unknown
Harpist: Aveline de la Rose
Special Award: Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor (Inez Maria Carmen de Freitas AS 28, Thevenin de la Cote d'Azur AS 29, Leonora daLiliaceae AS 30, Nicolae Cioranu AS 31, Cynred Broccan AS 32, Mordreth Llanelli Colwyn and Sylard of Eagleshaven AS 33)
Armed Forces: Septentrian Archery Corps, White Bear Fian

*Ieuan abdicated his throne in AS 32, leaving Adrielle to complete the reign alone.

The Fifth Reign, AS 33 – AS 37

Cynred’s Device

Gaerwen’s Device
Baron (Thegn): Cynred Broccan (Variant spellings: Cynred the Broc)
Baroness: Gaerwen of Trafford
Champion (Armoured Combat): Rhys ap Bledri (AS 33 – AS 34), Seonag nic Thomais (AS 36 – AS 37)
Sword-Reeve of the Isengesitha: Tiberius Justus Brittanicus
Archery Champion: Ulvar van der Nederlanden and Dafydd ap Sion* (both AS 37)
Fencing Champion: Gareth of Eoforwic (AS 37)
Scouting Champion: n/a
Equestrian Champion: n/a
Thrown Weapons Champion: Gunnar Truthsinger (AS 37)
A&S Champion: n/a
Bard: Hector of the Black Height (AS 34), Grimaldi DiSalvazzi (AS 34 - 35), Isotta Gianfgliazzi** (AS 35 – 36), Grimaldi DiSalvazzi (AS 36), Colyne Stewart and Thorfinna gra’feldr*** (AS 36 – AS 37)
Harpist: Rufus of Stamford (AS 33 – AS 37)
Special Award: Horn of Wessex (Corwyn and Domhnail Galbraith AS 34, Eirik Andersen AS 35, Aeneas Oakhammer AS 36, Colyne Stewart and Thorfinna gra’feldr AS 37)
Armed Forces: Septentrian Archery Corps, Isengesitha, Lightfists, White Bear Fian

*Ulvar and Dafydd held the position together
**Grimaldi was made Kingdom Bard, and Isotta served as Baronial Bard while he was so occupied.
***Colyne and Thorfinna held the position together

The Sixth Reign, AS 37 –

Corwyn’s Device

Domhnail’s Device
Baron: Corwyn Galbraith
Baroness: Domhnail Galbraith
Champion (Armoured Combat): NA
Archery Champion: Augustyn of Petrea Thule (AS 38).
Fencing Champion: Jocelyn Cranewall (AS 39).
Scouting Champion: NA
Equestrian Champion: NA
Thrown Weapons Champion: Gunnar skald Thorvaldsson called Truthsinger (AS 39).
A&S Champion: NA
Bard: Thorfinna gra’feldr (AS 38), Gunnar skald Thorvaldsson called Truthsinger (AS 39).
Harpist: Rufus of Stamford (AS 37)
Special Award: Horn of Muinnin (Ulvar van der Nederlanden, AS 38), Percival de Laraqoue and Christiana MacNamara, AS 39).
Armed Forces: Iron Companions, White Bear Fian


Appendix C: Septentrian Timeline


Year
Events of Note
AS 8
Duke Sir Finnvarr arrives in what will one day be Ealdormere.
AS 9
The Royal Citie of Eoforwic is founded.
Hugo von Feuerklippe is first seen.
The first event in the northlands is held.
AS 10
The northlands produces its first female fighter.
A newsletter is founded.
Eoforwic travels to its first Pennsic War.
Sylard of Eagleshaven is first seen.
The canton of Petrea Thule is a glimmer in Sylard’s eye.
The shire of Noerlanda is founded.
House Fyve’O is founded.
The first Feast of the Bear is held.
AS 11
House de Taahe makes itself known.
House Amberhall is first seen.
Eoforwic produces a war company.
Ben Dunfirthshire appears.
Finnvarr de Taahe wins the Crown Tournament of the Kingdom of the Middle. Caitlin Stuart is first seen.
Aedan na Kincora and Caffa Muirath are first seen.
The idea of a barony of the north is first proposed.
The Shire of Starleaf Gate is founded.
AS 12
Finnvarr de Taahe and Caellyn FitzHugh reign as King and Queen of the Middle.
The northern shires agree to unite as a barony.
The canton of Skraeling Althing and shire of Kalenda Formas are founded.
AS 13

The barony of Septentria is founded.

Gillian d’Uriel is invested as Baroness and made a member of the Order of the Laurel.

Caffa Muirath wins in the Lists.

The barony hosts its first event.

The barony attends its first Pennsic War.

Eanor of Amberhall becomes a ward of Gillian d’Uriel.

The canton of Fortress Royal is founded.

Hugo von Feuerklippe is raised to the Order of Chivalry.

The first Septentrian fight practice is held.

The first baronial arts and sciences minister is appointed.

AS 14
Torbin of Amberhall is made a Baron of the Court.
Jehanne l’Enragee is named poet laureate of the Middle Kingdom.
Hugo von Feuerklippe and Aedan na Kincora distinguish themselves at the Pennsic War.
Aedan is made a member of the Order of the Silver Oak.
The canton of Aron Araf holds its first event.
The first Clancy Day is held.
AS 15

The first game of bouzkashi is played in Septentria.

Mordain Blackcloak is chosen to be baronial champion.

Gillian d’Uriel begins to look for successors.

Gillian declares war on North Woods.

Sylard of Eagleshaven hosts a solstice celebration.

The canton of Dubhras appears.

AS 16
Hugo von Feuerklippe and Caitlin Stuart I reign as King and Queen of the Middle Kingdom.
Torbin of Amberhall and Caffa Muirath are honoured by the King and Queen. Rising Waters is seen for the first time.
The battle for North Woods is fought.
Aedan and Caffa are invested as Baron and Baroness.
The Septentrian Guard and Septentrian Archery Corps are founded.
The Award of the Bear’s Claw is created.
Skraeling Althing splits from Septentria.
AS 17
The Order of the Bear’s Heart is founded.
The gold and red torses are worn.
Mordain Blackcloak is knighted.
Septentrians are captured by the Great Dark Horde.
The canton of Der Welfengau is founded.
The Cauldron of Ceredwyn is instituted.
Taxes are levied.
A Master of Steel is named.
The Baronies of Septentria and Skraeling Althing almost war on one another.
The canton of Vest Yorvik is founded.
Gaerwen of Trafford is first seen.
AS 18
Hugo von Feuerklippe leaves Septentria.
The Cauldron of Ceredwyn is awarded to Finnvarr de Taahe.
Sylard of Eagleshaven is made a companion of the Order of the Laurel.
The Shire of Noergate is founded.
AS 19
Ben Dunfirth holds the first Murder Melee In The Meadow.
Sylard of Eagleshaven is sainted.
Tarver the Pole and Caffa Muirath craft a shield for the Princess of the Middle Kingdom.
Talk of a region of the northlands begins.
Septentria again distinguishes itself at the Pennsic War.
Fiona Averil of Maidenhead receives the Cauldron of Ceredwyn.
Those intent of fighting in the Regional Championship Tourney declare themselves.
Collars of state are chosen.
AS 20

Mordreth Llanelli Colwyn is made a companion of the Order of the Laurel. Eoforwic celebrates its 10th anniversary.

The Regional Championship Tournament is held.

Yog the Undesirable makes a heroic stand.

Septentria begins its war traditions.

The Cauldron of Ceredwyn is awarded to Ricard of Sabletree.

The Proscription begins.

AS 21
A champion of Septentria-Skraeling Althing-Noergate is chosen.
Septentria is sought at Pennsic.
Caffa Muirath is elevated to the Order of the Laurel.
Septentria almost single handedly guards the Midlands Royalty.
John of Slaughterfield is made Queen’s Champion.
Robert of Two Cliffs is awarded the Cauldron of Ceredwyn.
AS 22
The canton of Steinbach is founded.
A Septentria – Trimaris rivalry begins over land at Pennsic War.
The squires of Septentria help guard the Queen of the Middle.
Aedan na Kincora is made a companion of the Order of the Laurel.
Talk of a Barony of Rising Waters begins but is stopped.
The cauldron of Ceredwyn is awarded to Talymar gan y Lyn and Eislinn the Patient.
Eislinn passes away.
The Middle Kingdom Seneschal steps down.
Septentrians prove their generosity to the East Kingdom.
AS 23
Ealdormere is granted Principality status.
David Martin Failsworth and Tangwystl Siwan Failsworth are awarded the Cauldron of Ceredwyn.
Rising Waters splits off from Septentria.
Aedan na Kincora and Caffa Muirath are inducted into the Order of the Pelican.
AS 24
Eoforwic hosts a Royal Coronation.
Aedan na Kincora is given command of Ealdormere at War.
Angharad of Nankivel is awarded the Cauldron of Ceredwyn.
David Martin Failsworth and Tangwystl Siwan Failsworth are named Ealdormere’s first Prince and Princess
AS 25
Thorbjorn Osis Brandson and Ragnheithr Thorbjarnarsdottir reign as Prince and Princess.
The College of Skeldergate is founded.
The canton of Ardchreag is founded.
Septentria names a Hero.
Frederic L'Avarre and Tamarra Amalthea de Romany are awarded the Cauldron of Ceredwyn.
AS 26
David Martin Failsworth and Tangwystl Siwan Failsworth reign as King and Queen of the Middle.
Septentria is awarded the Purple Fretty.
The White Bear Fian is founded.
Cordigan d’Arnot and Diane d’Arnot are invested as Baron and Baroness.
House Eagleshaven dissolves for a time.
The Ramshaven talks begin.
House Galbraith appears.
AS 27
The barony searched for heirs.
AS 28
The canton of Monadh is founded.
The canton of Bryn Rekhart (Caer Draeth) is founded.
Ieuan McKellmore and Adrielle Kerrec are invested as Baron and Baroness.
The Septentrian Archery Corps is re-founded.
Cordigan d’Arnot and Diane d’Arnot reign as Prince and Princess.
The Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor is awarded to Inez de Carmen Maria de Freitas.
AS 29
Thorbjorn Osis Brandson I and Valthona Cuthbert reign as King and Queen of the Middle Kingdom.
David Martin Failsworth II and Elina de Braose reign as Prince and Princess. Ramshaven splits off from Septentria.
Thevenin de la Cote d’Azure is awarded the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor.
AS 30
The canton of Eoforwic celebrates its 20th anniversary.
Talk of Ealdormere’s seceding from the Middle Kingdom begins.
Leonora daLiliaceae is awarded the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor.
AS 31
Thorbjorn Osis Brandson II and Caitlin Stuart II reign as King and Queen of the Middle Kingdom.
Edouard Beausoleil and Eanor of Amberhall reign as King and Queen of Drachenwald.
David Martin Failsworth challenges the populace.
Nicolae Cioranu is awarded the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor.
AS 32
Berus Wolfsonne and Marion FitzWilliam reign as the last Territorial Prince and Princess of the Principality of Ealdormere.
The canton of Whit’s End (Greenhithe) is founded.
The Septentrian Archive is founded.
Ieuan McKellmore leaves for the Crusades leaving Adrielle Kerrec to rule alone.
Cynred Broccan is the first Commissar of the Ealdormere Commissariat.
Cynred Broccan is awarded the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor.
AS 33
Treasonous Barons and Baronesses appear speaking of Ealdormerean independence.
Ealdormere achieves its independence.
David Martin Failsworth and Elina da Braose reign as the first King and Queen of Ealdormere.
Sylard of Eagleshaven and Mordreth Llanelli Colwyn are made a Baron and Baroness of the Court.
David and Elina’s children Thorbjorn Osis Brandson and Caitlin Stuart reign after them.
Cynred Broccan challenges into the White Bear Fian.
Mordreth Llanelli Colwyn and Sylard of Eagleshaven are awarded the Cup of Teacht Ceartha Mor.
Cynred and Gaerwen of Trafford are invested as Baron and Baroness.
AS 34
The Isengesitha are founded.
The Lightfists are founded.
Thorbjorn Osis Brandson and Bernadette of Lauren pass away.
Edouard Beausoleil and Eanor of Amberhall reign as King and Queen.
Eoforwic celebrates its 25th anniversary.
AS 35
Berus Wolfsonne and Marion FitzWilliam reign as King and Queen.
Eirik Andersen is awarded the Horn of Wessex.
AS 36
Aaron Preslee and Rustique de Sorde reign as King and Queen.
Ulrich von der See passes away.
The Septentrian Performing Arts Troupe is formed.
The Septentrian reliquary is crafted.
Aeneas Oakhammer is awarded the Horn of Wessex.
The personal baronial favour is introduced.
A new baronial Champion is named.
AS 37
Ulvar van der Nederlanden and Dafydd ap Sion are named baronial archery champions.
A baronial minister of misinformation is named.
Wat of Sarum fought with the strength of seven men.
The Septentrian Engineering Corps works at Pennsic War.
Gunnar Truthsinger is named baronial thrown weapons champion.
Gareth of Eoforwic is named baronial fencing champion.
Colyne Stewart and Thorfinna gra’feldr are awarded the Horn of Wessex.
Septentrians teach at Casa Loma.
Corwyn Galbraith and Domhnail Galbraith are invested as Baron and Baroness.

Appendix D: Armed Might of Septentria at the end of Cynred and Gaerwen’s Reign

Legend: AC = Armoured Combat, S = Scouting, A = Archery, F = Fencing, WBF = White Bear Fian


Isengesitha

Agnar the Goth (AC)
Alaani of Ardchreag (S)
Angus Albani (AC)
Berend van der Eych (AC)
Brandt das Lederwerker (AC)
Brother Henri (Niall) (S)
Colyne Stewart (AC)
Cynred Broccan (AC)
Dafydd ap Sion (AC)
Drogo of the Black Forge (AC) (S)
Eirik Andersen (S)
Fursto de Robyne (S)
Gaerwen of Trafford (S)
Gunnar Hlidskijalfsson de Blacwode (AC)
Iohannis Fabrizio (S)
Ivanna the Oblivious (S)
Lachlan Maclean (S)
Mahault van der Eych (AC) (S)
Percival de Laroque (S)
Raffe Scholemaystre (AC)
Seonag nicThomais (AC)
Serion d'Ivri (S)
Tiberius Justus Britannicus (AC)
Thorfinna gra'feldr (AC)
Ulvar van der Nederlander (AC) (S)
Wat of Sarum (AC)
Wencenedl inigena Jagomus of Rokesburg(S)

Retired Isengesitha
Dwynwen of Greenhithe (AC) (S)
Grimaldi Guilietta DiSalvazzi (AC)
Isotta Gianfgliazzi (AC)
Magnus Kjrr
Streonwold Wulfsbana (AC)
Tormod of Kirk Andreas (AC)
Ulrich von den See (AC)
Elspeth Fraser Dowglas (S)

Oath Expired / Not Currently Active in Isengesitha
Adrielle Kerrec (AC)
Aenflaed of Wansbeck (S)
Aeschine the Scalding (S)
Ceallac cu Meallian (AC)
Cynewulf Markere (AC)
Hamish (Vest Yorvik) (AC)
Sophia of Greenhithe (S)
Duncan bek Angus Mcdrake (AC)

White Bear Fian

Alasdair of Raasay (WBF)
Ceallac cu Meallian (WBF)
David Martin Failsworth (WBF)
Finnvarr de Taahe (WBF)
Tai Chin Wu (WBF)
Ziegfried Gunter von Weaselberg (WBF)
Fionngaiel Face of Wyre (WBF)
Edward the Red (WBF)
Nicolae Cioranu (WBF)
Daffyd of Chalcewell (WBF)
Edouard Beausoleil (WBF)
Konrad Mattias Jaeger (WBF)
Oikawa Katsu (WBF)
Rhiannwen of Calontir (WBF)
Rhys ap Bledri (WBF)
Ruaidhri of Calontir (WBF)
Thevenin de la Cote d'Azure (WBF)
Cynred Broccan (WBF)
Evander McLachlan (WBF)
Duncan bek Angus Mcdrake of Clan Barclay Esq (Weeduncan) (WBF)

Septentrian Archery Corps
Ceredwyn of Vest Yorvik (A)
Dafydd ap Sion (A)
Gaerwen of Trafford (A)
Ulvar van der Nederlander (A)
Alistair Kirk (retired)

Lightfists
Albrecht Stamfer (F)
Eve of Eoforwic (F)
Alistair Kirk (retired)

Appendix E: The Septentrian War Song
By Mistress Rhiannon of Wye

Rise and hasten to the field
Rise ye swordsman, spearman, bowmen
Leave all peaceful cares behind
On for the glory of Septentria

Form a shieldwall on the green
splendid in your crimson tabards
Listen to the sounding drums
They speak of the glory of Septentria

First the deadly arrows fly
Find their mark and frighten foemen
Soon they'll see what fools they are
To face the glory of Septentria

Thrusts of spearman break their wall
Wade into a sea of foemen
Shining swords and gleaming glave
Fight for the glory of Septentria

'Neath the banner hold your stand
On the blood-saked field of battle
Some will live but some must die
Die for the glory of Septentria

When the road of battle's done
Dead live on in song and story
Pour the mead and pass the horn
And drink to the glory of Septentria.

Appendix F: The Doom of Ealdormere
By Baron Aedan na Kincora

Many tales are told of the young hero Ealdormere, but the strangest tale told is the tale of her birth; for they say that she did not come to be in the usual way, but that this was the way of it:

The wise and mighty of the land desired to draw together the people, to make their land strong and glorious. For this they needed a hero, yet none was in evidence, and the omens foretold none to be soon born. Thus they resolved to create their own.

They drew her spirit and flesh from the land itself, from its wide skies and waters, from its forests and fields, and from its hard, enduring stone and soft, fertile earth. Each woman and man of them gave of their own strength, and at length a perfect infant lay before them.

All the people were called to her naming, and from the highest lord to the lowest churl they came. Not only the people, but also the hare, the wolf, and the bear came to represent the beasts of field and forest. Then each gave a gift that suited their means. The hare gave her cunning and fleetness of foot, the wolf gave his unstinting loyalty, and the bear gave his slow wisdom and great strength.

But while the people rejoiced, the first of the Three who sit by the well and work the loom of the World called to her sisters, saying, "Look, here is a hank laid ready for spinning that I never carded. Someone is joggling our elbows." Then they grew angry, and cast about for the mischief maker.

At length they noticed the people celebrating, and marked the newborn babe. The youngest of the Three said, "Here are those who would make themselves our equals. Sisters, let us teach them a lesson. I see that they are giving gifts. Let us each give a gift also, and gifts that they shall rue."

Thus it came about that Ealdormere received three bright gifts and three dark gifts all on the same day.

The first bright gift that the wise and mighty gave was a good mind and a steady hand, that she might be a great artisan; the first dark gift that the Three gave was this: Though she might create great wonders, yet nothing she did would outlast her.

The second gift was a strong back and a keen eye, that she might be a great archer; the second dark gift the Three gave was this: However true her shafts might fly, they would never diminish the number of her enemies.

The third gift the wise and mighty gave was a glad heart and a generous hand, that she might always have friends; the last and bitterest dark gift was this: Though she might have a multitude of friends, yet none would stand by her in her hour of extremity.

This is the tale of her birth and many more are told of her youth; how when she could barely walk she had grown too large for any house, and that while still a maid she had followed her King to war and done valiant deeds.

They tell how her people loved her, for she was not haughty, but noble and worshipful; and her honour was bright like a mirror, wherein they saw their own honour reflected bright.

Of her end no one knows the true tale, but only that on a day in that season when the hint of Spring first raises hopes and the fast following frost dashes them, word came from the king that Ealdormere was no more.

Some say that in her youthful rashness, she sounded her challenge before the gates of the bright gods themselves and was cast down in ruin; but one among the gods took pity on her brave heart and her beauty and raised her to the heavens. They say that on a winter night, when the clear sky brings biting frost, you can see her high in the southern sky, her sword at her side, guarding the borders of the land that she loves.

Others say that she was not slain at all, but laid under an enchantment of sleep, wherein she does not age, and at their hour of greatest need she shall awake and lead her people.

However true these tales may be we cannot know, but we do know that one thing is true. Before Ealdormere left, she drew forth her secret heart, and breaking it into a multitude of pieces, she gave a bit to each of her people to safeguard. And whenever a person is moved to speak of Ealdormere, and whenever the listeners are moved by what they hear, it is one piece of her secret heart that speaks, and the others listen.

(Copyright M. Jenne 1991)

Appendix G: Handy Mundane to SCA Year Conversion Chart

Mundane Year
Mundane Year
in Roman Numerals
SCA Year
(Anno Societatus)
SCA Year
in Roman Numerals
May 1, 2003
MMIII
AS 38
XXXVIII
May 1, 2002
MMII
AS 37
XXXVII
May 1, 2001
MMI
AS 36
XXXVI
May 1, 2000
MM
AS 35
XXXV
May 1, 1999
MCMXLIX
AS 34
XXXIV
May 1, 1998
MCMXLVIII
AS 33
XXXIII
May 1, 1997
MCMXLVII
AS 32
XXXII
May 1, 1996
MCMXLVI
AS 31
XXXI
May 1, 1995
MCMXLV
AS 30
XXX
May 1, 1994
MCMXLIV
AS 29
XXIX
May 1, 1993
MCMXLIII
AS 28
XXVIII
May 1, 1992
MCMXLII
AS 27
XXVII
May 1, 1991
MCMXLI
AS 26
XXVI
May 1, 1990
MCMLXL
AS 25
XXV
May 1, 1989
MCMLXXXIX
AS 24
XXIV
May 1, 1988
MCMLXXXVIII
AS 23
XXIII
May 1, 1987
MCMLXXXVII
AS 22
XXII
May 1, 1986
MCMLXXXVI
AS 21
XXI
May 1, 1985
MCMLXXXV
AS 20
XX
May 1, 1984
MCMLXXXIV
AS 19
XIX
May 1, 1983
MCMLXXXIII
AS 18
XVIII
May 1, 1982
MCMLXXXII
AS 17
XVII
May 1, 1981
MCMLXXXI
AS 16
XVI
May 1, 1980
MCMLXXX
AS 15
XV
May 1, 1979
MCMLXXIX
AS 14
XIV
May 1, 1978
MCMLXXVIII
AS 13
XIII
May 1, 1977
MCMLXXVII
AS 12
XII
May 1, 1976
MCMLXXVI
AS 11
XI
May 1, 1975
MCMLXXV
AS 10
X
May 1, 1974
MCMLXXIV
AS 9
IX
May 1, 1973
MCMLXXIII
AS 8
VIII
May 1, 1972
MCMLXXII
AS 7
VII
May 1, 1971
MCMLXXI
AS 6
VI
May 1, 1970
MCMLXX
AS 5
V
May 1, 1969
MCMLXIX
AS 4
IV
May 1, 1968
MCMLXVIII
AS 3
III
May 1, 1967
MCMLXVII
AS 2
II
May 1, 1966
MCMLXVI
AS 1
I


1 comment:

  1. The reference to Sedalia I is inaccurate: she was reigning as Sedalia II.

    ReplyDelete