Whack and Snack a Success; Includes Fighting, Food, and an Elevation

The Barony of Selviergard, Oertha--As their Majesties Alfarr and Eilis made their way north through the Barony of Selviergard towards the Barony of Winter’s Gate for the Yule celebration there was an activity to entertain the King and Queen of the West and the assembled populace.  The activity came with food, fighting, and even a Kingdom court all of which, when combined together, helped make the activity quite a success for those who could attend the mid-week gathering.

With the King of the West visiting it was a great opportunity for fighters to come together and learn new skills and techniques that would benefit them both on and off the battlefield.  Many fighters from both the Barony of Selviergard and the Barony of Eskalya joined together for a memorable fighter practice and training.

Lady Mor and Master Sextus Valerius Crusillus trade blows in the fighter practice and the Barony of Selviergard’s Whack and Snack activity.  Photograph by Halfdan Ozurrson.  December 13, 2016. 

Yule Celebrations Include a Royal Visit, a Peerage, and New Baronesses

The Barony of Eskalya, Oertha--The second Yule on the Oerthan calendar was celebrated in the Barony of Eskalya this year.  The Yule, hosted by Viscountess Isabella Hawke, was full of a variety of different things to participate in to celebrate the season.  In addition to the elevation of new Baronesses for the Barony, the Yule celebrated the season with a visit from Alfarr and Eilis, the King and Queen of the Kingdom of the West, who enjoyed the day with members from around the Principality of Oertha.

The day opened with a Baroness’ Tea; held to celebrate the reign of Elspeth as Baroness of Eskalya.  The Tea had many delights and delicacies offered to the participants as they enjoyed each other’s company while waiting for the opening court of the day.

With the arrival of the King and Queen of the West, as well as the Prince and Princess of Oertha, the opening court began to take shape as heralds were consulted and the populace was gathered to start the day.

King Alfarr and Queen Eilis watch the proceedings of the opening court at the Barony of Eskalya’s Yule.  Photograph by Rainna Fathirsdottir.  December10, 2016.

Selviergard Celebrates Yule with Traditions and Mirth

The Barony of Selviergard, Oertha--The winter winds blew hard outside, and snow, already deep in some places, threatened to engulf festive attendees to the Barony of Selviergard’s Yule celebration.  However, indoors in the large and spacious hall, the warmth of not only family but friends as well, brought out the reason for the event—gathering together with laughter and cheer.

This year’s Yule was autocratted by Baroness Aislynn Denard of Dragon’s Lair who brought a bit of fun and mischief alongside some very honored Selviergardian traditions to the event.

Opening court took place before the official start of the event.  In his court, Baron Halfdan welcomed all to the day’s activities, welcoming not only Baroness Elspeth of Eskalya, but Kenric and Dagmar, the Prince and Princess of Oertha as well.  From there, the Autocrat was invited to give announcements regarding her event, in which she too welcomed all.

Baroness Elspeth of Eskalya and Baron Halfdan of Selviergard are ready to get court started at the Barony of Selviergard’s Yule celebration.  December 3, 2016.  Photograph by Yamano Yuki.

Oktoberfest Celebrated with German Foods and Treats for All

“Feast is a special time in Selviergard in which the nobles sit at the same table as the workers of the field and enjoy time together.”  From The Chronicles of Selviergard

Barony of Selviergard, Oertha--An Autumn festival, popular in the lands of Germany, was celebrated by Selviergardians towards the end of October.  People from all over the Principality of Oertha were invited to share a feast to celebrate Fall with food, friendship, and celebration.  The event was a spectacular way to spend time with each other and to enjoy a wonderful array of food.

There was no opening court; since there was a small number of people that early in the day.  However, the Autocrat of the event, Lady Delphina de Grenada, opened with announcements on the activities planned for her Oktoberfest.

JoJo enjoys the fruit of her labor at the Barony of Selviergard’s Oktoberfest celebration.  Photograph by Halfdan Ozurrson.  October 29, 2016.

Hop-Tu-Naa Celebrated in Eskalya

The Barony of Eskalya, Oertha--Eskalyans celebrated the Isle of Mann’s Celtic festival with many different activities that delighted and amused the assembled populace.  Many Oerthans made it out to the Barony’s event to enter in some of the many competitions available, to partake in the marshal activities, or just simply to schmooze.

The event opened with a court from Her Excellency, Baroness Elspeth, who welcomed all and called forward the event Autocrat for her words.  After her initial welcome the Autocrat, Mistress Cynehild Cynesigesdohtor listed off the activities that she had planned—all of which were quite exciting.  From there, the event officially started.

Baroness Rolynnda of the Azure Stone carves a turnip in celebration of Hop-tu-Naa in the Barony of Eskalya.  October 22, 2016.  Photograph by Halfdan Ozurrson.

Pirates and Champions

The Barony of Selviergard, Oertha--The day turned out to be quite warm and bright as the Barony of Eskalya gathered together to choose new baronial champions.  Incidentally enough, it was also a day for Pirates.  The Barony of Eskalya celebrated both amid a wonderful day with friends and family from throughout the Principality of Oertha.

The opening of the event took place at court, in which Baroness Elspeth invited her Cousin, Baron Halfdan of Selviergard, to sit with her in court.  The opening announcements were made by the Autocrats of the event; Lady Ciara der Alcan and Lord Kolskeggr Ungi and all of those in attendance were welcomed to the fun-filled event.  The first order of business to start the festivities was to be the Rapier Tournament.

Lady Angela of Eskalya and Donna Etain O’Rowarke battle it out in the Rapier Tournament to determine the next Eskalyan Rapier Champion.  Photograph by Halfdan Ozurrson.  September 10, 2016.

Chicken Wars a Success; Many Egg Puns Cracked

“The War of the Chicken [has] come to Oertha / Easily destroying fields and cattle…”

--from a missive by Mistress Cynehild Cynesigesdohtor

Barony of Selviergard, Oertha--Amid a weekend of egg puns, rooster crowing, and splendid pageantry did the Baronies of Selviergard and Eskalya, alongside the entire Principality, celebrate the fifth Chicken Wars in the lands of Oertha.  At this Chicken Wars; Mistress Anne of Bradford and Mistress Else Hünrvogt both led their armies against the other for the sole reason, it would seem, that both exalted ladies had a chicken as part of their heraldry.  But truthfully; who needs any reason for a war!?

The two armies clashed on a pleasant field in the lands of Central Selviergard amid some sun and some rain late in the month of August.  The War was met with great enthusiasm and mirth with many people attending from around the Principality and from Central Kingdom.  The two Captains were in attendance as well, travelling all the way from their holds in Central Kingdom; helping to bring together a Chicken Wars for many who have never been a part of it before.

The Chickens™.  Photograph by Halfdan Ozurrson.  August 20, 2016.

Champions for Selviergard Chosen

Barony of Selviergard, Oertha--Though the rain claimed a vast majority of the weekend, those who attended the Barony of Selviergard’s Warlord’s Tournament event had fun with a variety of things to do and warm food and friendship.  The yearly baronial event marks the time that new champions are sought by the populace in the fields of Heavy, Rapier, Youth Archery, Adult Archery, and Thrown Weapons.  Needless to say, the friendly competition between all was fun to watch and partake in.

On Friday night the site opened to a few campers who spent the evening around the campfire telling stories and enjoying each the others company before heading off to bed to take part of the event in the morning.

On Saturday, Baron Halfdan welcomed into his court Kenric and Dagmar, the Prince and Princess of Oertha, and greeted those who took the time to come out and enjoy and participate in the event.  The opening baronial court also saw the release of His Excellency’s champions in preparation for new ones to be chosen at that event.  With three cheers the Baron released the assembled populace to make ready for the tournaments.

Baron Halfdan renews his oath to the populace of Selviergard in the opening court at Selviergard’s Warlord’s Tournament.  August 6, 2016.  Photograph by Yamano Yuki-san.

Summer Welcomed with Battles and Bardics

The Barony of Selviergard, Oertha--The Barony of Selviergard hosted their official Spring welcome with a grand camping event.  Spring Offensive, the traditional celebration of the season and the birthday of the Barony, was well attended by over sixty people from all over the Principality and even some from other kingdoms.  Held in the scenic Lake Lucille Campground in Central Selviergard; the three-day event held on Memorial Day Weekend had something for everyone who attended.  No matter if you liked to fight in epic battles, partake in bardic well into the night, or just enjoyed spending time with family and friends the Autocrats had you covered at Selviergard’s Spring Offensive.

Many travelers who would camp for the spectacular weekend arrived on Friday night.  While space was at a premium the populace who were camping were found room around the site.  Campsites and pavilions went up rather quickly with many hands making the work easier.  The beautiful display of a variety of different pavilions and tents lent to the medieval atmosphere that the Autocrats had so much desired.

After the tents were set up, the bardic fire was attended by many.

Saturday morning brought the vast majority of the events activities, such as the Siege of Paris and fighting classes.  The sun shone quite brightly as the fighters armored up and prepared themselves for the upcoming hours of intense battles.  Three fighters took the opportunity to get authorized as well, including Baron Braun of Winter’s Gate, Lady Talorc Caer Arianrhold, and Connor Ulfsson of Eskalya.

The fighters prepare themselves the Siege of Paris by discussing strategy amongst themselves.  May 28, 2016.  Photograph by Halfdan Ôzurrson.

Collegium Again Successful

“And so go forth and learn, my young friend…go forth and learn great things.”

From Sharp Pointy Teeth and Other Tales; The Selviergard Chronicles

The Barony of Selviergard, Oertha--The Barony of Selviergard and the Barony of Eskalya once again hosted a bi-baronial collegium which had twenty-five classes spread out through two days; an event that hosted people from all over the Principality who took the opportunity to learn new things and acquire new skills that help make the Principality of Oertha a stunning place to live in.  This event, the latest in several of bi-baronial events, was an amazing activity that was well attended.

Instructors from all over the Principality, and even two from out-of-kingdom, participated and taught a varied selection of classes which spanned huge sections of arts and sciences and even fighting techniques and styles.  There was something for everyone with three or four classes happening at once all throughout the day.

Students learn the fine art of Illumination during one of the classes at the Bi-Baronial Collegium.  April 2, 2016.  Photograph by Halfdan Ôzurrson.

Crested Helms and a Grand Feast

“Did candy just explode out of that thing?  I think that’s candy.”

-Baron Halfdan while watching the Crested Helm Tournament

Barony of Selviergard, Oertha--In years past the then Canton of Ibnhir na da Abhan hosted a memorable event; one that celebrated the high Middle Ages with a tournament and crests and a grand feast.  This event celebrated by our Cousins was called the Boon Day Feast and, from apocryphal tales and the memories of those who were there, was quite grand.  The Barony of Selviergard, wishing to hearken back to those days and relive excitement and fun, hosted a Crested Helm Tournament and Feast; honoring the past while celebrating the present.

The wondrous crested helms for both heavy and rapier fighters were displayed upon a table so that all could examine the artistic skill of the heavy fighters before the tournament started.  People oohed and ahhed over the crests which included a stunning raven in situ, a fire-breathing vorpal rabbit (heraldically correct, mind you), a shooting star, an enormous heart, and many more.

Some of the crested helms are displayed before the Tournament.  March 23, 2016.  Photograph by Halfdan Ôzurrson.

Roman Games and Dagger Tournaments; Caesar Approved

The Barony of Selviergard, Oertha--The Barony of Selviergard once again celebrated the Ides of March this year with togas, dagger tournaments, and gambling games. The event, autocrated by Mistress Rolynnda of the Azure Stone, garnered many people from around the Principality to attend the first Selviergardian event held this year. Many of the participants dressed in Roman clothing to celebrate the day noted by the haruspex Spurinna that the great Julius Caesar should be wary of.

But only Caesar should have been wary of this day, not the populace who came out to partake in the
activity. The event opened with people getting themselves set up in the main room by arraigning tables around the main hall where the fighting would take place later on in the day. Tables were colorfully decorated and laden with snacks in preparation for the event’s different activities.

Lady Silvia of Thrace, Her Highness Arabella of Oertha, and Lady Celestria Textrix enjoy the event. March 12, 2016. Photograph by Halfdan Ôzurrson.

Oertha's Prince and Princess Revealed!

The Principality of Oertha--Winter’s icy fingers gripped at the witness’s cloaks in attempt to draw them away to the warmth of the hall but the vast majority weathered the harsh climes of winter in Oertha to observe the choosing of a new Prince and Princess. Inside; banners were hung on the wall, tables were decorated with gusto, and the hall was filled by those around the Principality in attendance--a welcome sight as many Oerthans gathered this weekend in great numbers to partake in something special, the Winter Coronet and Investiture.

The opening court of the day saw some announcements and the swearing of fealty to the King and Queen of the West by the baronages of the various baronies in the Principality and by the Knights, Laurels, Pelicans, and other Peers of the Realm. In addition, Mistress Caitríona inghean ui Chionaodha was inducted into the Order of the Laurel for her many wondrous works in the artistic aspect of the Society. From there, those who would fight in the tournament to determine the next Prince and Princess of Oertha were brought in, amid great pageantry and splendor, to swear the oath and prepare themselves for the tournament.

Entrants to the Coronet Lists of Oertha swear the Oath. January 16, 2016.  Photograph by Yamano Yuki.

Yuletide Celebrations in Eskalya

The Barony of Eskalya, Oertha--The Barony of Eskalya hosted a Yule celebration in which there was plenty of merrymaking held in the warm hall. Tables were decorated for the season, colorful garb donned, and friends and family joined together to drive the cold winter away.

A group photograph at Eskalya's Yule celebration.  December 5, 2015. Photo by Halfdan Ozurrson.

Good Cheer and Dancing in Selviergard

"Sing the songs and dance the dances

For the season for mirth is here"

- from The Song of Selviergard

Barony of Selviergard, Oertha--The Barony of Selviergard celebrated the season of Yule with laughter and cheer at the much anticipated yearly activity. The event, modeled after a later-period Ball, was well attended by many people from both the Barony of Selviergard and the Barony of Eskalya (with an attendee from the far away land of Ravensfjord) ready to celebrate the holiday season with masks, later period clothing, and lots of food. Did we mention lots of food?

Friends gather at the start of Selviergard's Yule.   December 12, 2015.  Photograph by Halfdan Ozurrson.