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.

Tables were set out on which delicacies were placed for a side board and even more tables were brought so that the populace could enjoy the day. Additionally, a counter was set up for various arts and sciences projects that the populace has been working on showcasing the efforts and expertise of Selviergardians. Works ranged from a hat, embroidery pieces, a Norse chest, and even a reliquary in progress.

Early on in the day the annual "Rock-Paper-Scissors" competition took place. Competitors each vied to become the Lord or Lady of Misrule; an honored tradition this time of year in the Barony of Selviergard. While many entered the competition only two people could come away as the winners. As such, it was Sir Kenric Maur who won the title of Lord of Misrule and Mistress Trava of the West who, as his consort for the day, took the title of Lady of Misrule. As is also tradition in these lands hats were bestowed upon the winners; an outward representation of their hard won victory and new titles for the day.

 Sir Kenric Maur and Mistress Trava of the West are crowned as Lord and Lady of Misrule.  December 12, 2015.  Photograph by Yamano Yuki.

The Rapier community hosted a series of exhibition fights to showcase the skills and talents of those who study the blade. Three fighters took the rapier field; Viscount Fergus mac Thomais, Donna Etain O'Rowarke, and Tiarna Brann mac Finnchad. These three fighters, who happen to be baronial champions as well, displayed amazing ability on the field. It was a sincere joy to watch the rapier fighters show off their skills and entertain the audience with graceful moves and clever sword skills.

 Viscount Fergus mac Thomais and Tiarna Brann mac Finnchad exchange blows.  December 12, 2015.  Photograph by Halfdan Ozzurson.

Before the end of the event, Baron Halfdan held court in which several items of business were conducted. After some words from His Excellency thanking those in attendance, the Autocrats were called forward for their announcements. It was then that Viscount Fergus mac Thomais was gifted with an item of esteem from the Autocrats for entering Rapier field. It was also here that Mistress Clare Elena was announced as the winner for the Finger Food Competition. Before they retired, the Autocrats were gifted with bronze rings for their service from the Baron of Selviergard.

Also in court, Mistress Rolynnda of the Azure Stone took on a new Apprentice; Ciara der Alcan, and the ceremony and words were witnessed by His Excellency Halfdan in his court. Elspeth, Baroness of Eskalya, also asked for a bit of time in her Royal Cousin's court in which she named Lord Kolskeggr Ungi as her Baronial guardsman.

Gifts were given by Baron Halfdan to not only the children of Oertha but also the officers of his Barony. Additionally, Baron Halfdan announced a repeal of taxation for members of the populace of Selviergard much to the cheering of the assembled populace. In an unrelated announcement; the populace of Eskalya were informed of double taxation for the duration of the holiday season by Baron Halfdan.

To finish off the event some dancing was performed. Masks were donned and the musicians plucked their strings and the dances began. While not as intricate as the strange and abstruse Karabushkas and Pavans of our Southern Cousins in Eskalya, the dancing was well enjoyed and performed with cheer and laughter. 

Dancing together closes up the event.  December 12, 2015.  Photograph by Yamano Yuki.

With the last strands of music still in the hall, the event was cleaned up quickly as the celebrants made ready to head home after a busy day.

Many thanks to the Autocrats of the event who crafted a memorable event for us all. Thank you to everybody who made it out for the Yule celebration in these lands. Yule is a time for family and friends, and this event showed us all that we have a very large family indeed.

The Selviergard Associated Press

Published in the January 2016 edition of The DragonTale

Event Date:  December 12, 2015