The Fifth Book of the Chronicles of Eoforwic

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November A.S. XXIX (C.E. 1994)

t was in this month that Eoforwic celebrated the twentieth anniversary of its first formal meeting, which was held in the Guild Hall of the International Students, where it is to this day. In actual fact, the anniversary passed without notice from the populace, and this month indeed was singularly unexciting. My sister Nicolaa did make a pilgrimage to the place of her birth far to the south, and among Society folk there did attract notice for her red robe in the Spanish fashion, and received a silver dragon pendant for her efforts, which she oft may be seen wearing, and in those parts she met up with Brand Thorwaldsson and Caitrin and Dafydd of Chalcewell, who happened to be passing by.

In fact, word had come to Eoforwic that longships had been spotted up the coast, and folk were loathe to leave their homes behind and spent the time sharpening swords lest they be caught unawares.

December A.S. XXIX (C.E. 1994)

t was in this month that the dreaded longships were seen in the Inland Seas, and fierce Norsemen came ashore to raid the City. Their first deed was to raid the countryside, taking as captive a certain Murphy the Sheep, whose birth had been made possible by Countess Caitlin, now consorting with the Viking host. Having heard advance warning of the Viking menace, Angus, Marshal of the White Tower, with the help of Hector and others had searched the land for skilled fighters to help defend the City walls. Though the Vikings were lead by Prince Osis and counted many talented young fighters on their side, the City managed to augment their smaller ranks with no less than Duke Hasdrubal himself, along with members of all the premier fighting households of Ealdormere, though the Faringolds were conspicuous by their absence on either side. Vikings and the augmented City Guard fought from boats and on the beaches, on bridges and in the town. Champions in each of five weapons forms met each other on the field, and those skilled with rapier defended the marketplace, using whatever came to hand, such as fish and bread, to parry blows. And apart from the fighting, artisans exhibited their creations, some busily embroidering napkins for Their Highnesses. And an odd thing happened. Laughter was heard on the field of battle, and afterwards, though the Vikings had won, both sides clasped hands in friendship and shared drinking horns replete with Ceallach's specially brewed ale. At Court, David and Elina commended the fighters for their chivalry on the field, especially Lord Rhys, to whom they gave a special blue garter. And Nicolaa won for herself some garnets for her embroidery, which had caught the Princess' eye, while Ysabeau's candied orange peels proved the most popular (and tastiest) arts entry. Also did Gunnar repeat his success with arranging a splendid repast (with requite large loaf of bread), and Osis provided a hearty soup. And ever after were Skeldergate and Eoforwic even closer friends.

January A.S. XXIX (C.E. 1995)

n this month within the City Walls did sojourn the Baron and Baroness of Septentria, and here, in the Black Rose Inn of Ines de Freytis, did hold Twelfth Night festivities. Many strange doppelgangers were seen at this event, and Lord Kes and Lady Glandydd presided over a Court of Fools. Many gentles who broke the rules were forced to wear the Nose of Shame. Ursula had made for Countess Caitlin a huge pot of marzipan, and Caitlin sponsored a sotelty contest withrizes for "most patriotic" and "most bloody"--though the latter category was misunderstood as "most bawdy"--resulting in numerous unsubtle sotelties, including that of Madeline de la Villemonde, who won the contest. This Madeline was the twin of Schierlin of Freiburg, who had been driven away by excessive mispronunciation of her name, especially by a certain Lord Larmer, and by Catriona, who had handed her prophylactics emblazoned with "Feel the Sheerlon difference". Also on that day did Nicolaa hand the Giant Stapler over to Leonora da Lilliaceae, thus stepping down as Ursus editor, for she had recently assumed the mantle of Deputy Principality Marshal of Fence. From this time Albrecht Stampfer, a gentle of German birth, now had charge of the salle des armes of Eoforwic. And here also was Elaine Middleton (who had parted company with Vladimir, and that day met a certain Maximilian of Eoforwic, which would have future consequences) taken as apprentice by Madinia, and Viscountess Heithr apprenticed to Hector. Two customs of old were here revived. In the days of Aedan and Caffa, it had been customary, in times of peace, to set up a Point of Honour wherein all were enjoined to place all weapons longer than a forearm, to be watched by an appointed guard. Likewise, it had long been the custom to collect Baronial Taxes at Twelfth Night, and thus the cantons of Septentria--most of them--stepped forward with a spear, from which was hung a canton banner, carried by a newly trained archer, fencer, or fighter. Lady Ysabeau, a new archer, presented Ieuan and Adrielle with the very spear that Eoforwic had once given to Aedan and Caffa on a similar occasion. The Canton of Monadh, having no spear of great antiquity, presented a new spear--and marvelous it was to see, with a point wrought by Master Sylard, a banner woven by the ladies of the canton, and many other beautiful details. So pleased were the Baron and Baroness that they took it everywhere with them after that time. Also,

the Cup of Teacht Cearta Mor passed from Ines de Freytis to Thevenin de la Cote d'Azur, known everywhere by his kind and generous nature and great chivalry on and off the field of honour.

February A.S. XXIX (C.E. 1995)

n this month David and Elina held a grand tourney to chose their heirs. Each entrant had previously presented himself and his lady (for all the entrants were male) in Court with twelve good folk representing fighters, fencers, archers, artisans, and bureaucrats, and representing all three baronies, to attest to their good names. Sixteen fighters entered the lists that day, and in the end Viscount Roak bested Rory Cenneddi from the Skrael (who that day bore an uncanny, though smaller, resemblance to Prince Osis), thus winning for himself and Viscountess Tarkwyn the new-coined titles of Althegn and Althegna of Ealdormere.

Nearly three years to the day that Cordigan and Diane had first announced their intention to pursue the division of Septentria, the process was finally completed with the proclamation of the Barony of Ramshaven, consisting of the cantons of Trinovantia Nova, Afon Araf, Bryniau Tywynogg, and der Welfengau, and the investiture of Cordigan and Diane as Baron and Baroness. The new barony had existed in all but name for some time now. Also on that day was the Canton of Petrea Thule raised to full status after many years of argument with the College of Heralds over their group name. Also at this event was Etaoin o Fearghail elevated to the Order of the Laurel for skill in spinning and dying. During the feast, a group of Eoforings presented the Thuligans with Ancient Regalia created at the time of the group's initial formation, along with a Mayoral Bull worded by Hector and signed by the populace, congratulating the group. Also during the feast was Gaerwen of Trafford spirited away by one of the Bearded Men of Monadh. It seems that Gaerwen had come to be betrothed to Graeme Larmer, and had been heard complaining that it would be many years before they might marry, owing to Graeme's tender age, and so this particular Monadhi had come to better the offer. Though Gaerwen was carried from the hall over his shoulder, she did not appear to struggle much.

It was also in this month that James Douglas assumed the editorial duties for the Eoforing from Ines de Freytis and produced his first issue, which had a chocolate truffle stuck to the cover. He received many compliments, and thenceforth, chocolate was plentiful. Also it was decided to forgo a Court of Love near the feast of St. Valentine in favour of a Court of Chocolate, and many excess pounds were gained by the populace as a result.

March A.S. XXIX (C.E. 1995)

n this month the Artisans held their Fair in the canton of Dinas Gardd, where a great miracle was witnessed. A scholar from the university in Bryniau Tywynogg had spent many years with needle and wool reproducing the great tapestry of Bayeux. Now, his labours almost complete, he had been convinced by Eyrny Ormarsdottir to bring a goodly portion to the fair for display. When unfolded, it covered three walls of the feast hall. Seldom has such a wonder been seen in the Known World, and Prince David and Princess Elina gifted him with a goblet for his inspiration. Also at the competition did Nicolaa finish high in the Pentathalon, despite the fact that one of her entries was an extraordinarily silly "Charm against the Plague" consisting of a vial of Catnip, which Ysabeau had convinced her to enter. Ysabeau was later that day summoned from the lavatory to be inducted into the Order of the Golden Otter for her skill at costuming.

Many citizens of Eoforwic packed a local inn this month to see a play called "Ydelness and Occupacion", presented by the Poculi Ludique Societas, whose bonds with Eoforwic continued to grow strong. The play featured the triumph of a very fearsome Doctrine (loudly hissed by the crowd) over Ydelness, with the help of Occupacion.

It was about this time that Morgan Blackheart formally took over the Ministry of the Exchequer, though in truth she had long been performing many of its duties. Morgan had long red hair and the cleverness of a fox, and was very tenacious at raising funds, most particularly for the upcoming anniversary celebration. She also was in training to fight for the Eoforwic guard, as were a number of the ladies of the City, who aspired to become the "Bear-Chested Women of Eoforwic".

April A.S. XXIX (C.E. 1995)

hilst planning for the Eoforwic twentieth anniversary, it was decided by the citizens that it would be most mete to bedeck the City with the devices of the citizens, and so all were summoned to the Guild Hall to paint said devices upon small shields. And Jasper was commissioned to carve a sign, so that the display might be used as a Pennsic Gate as well.

And the aforementioned Master Stonecutter did return to the Guild Hall one evening, and regaled the populace with tales and pictures of the architecture of Spain and France.

Not a few of the townsfolk traveled to the canton of Vest Yorvik, and though the stench of fish was nigh unbearable, they enjoyed themselves much, in celebration of the fifth anniversary of the Principality of Ealdormere. Word traveled through the hall of a secret P.A.C.E. plot to register the recently-vacated heraldic device of a certain Huge Eastern European Nation, as "they didn't need it anymore". It was here that four of the townsfolk--Madeline de Villemonde, Albrecht Stampher, Jasper Vrakkink, and Vychata Igoravich (Chin of Victory, etc.) were ennobled, and that Nicolaa de Bracton was inducted into the Order of the Peregrine, the first fencer to be so honoured. And also Hector, bynamed by the Guild Fannucci as "who gets no Prezzies", was presented with Princess Elina's personal favour, and he vowed he would sew it to his war-torn bear tabard.

Two weeks later, the people of Ealdormere gathered in Ben Dunfirth for the most auspicious tourney named after Lady Mary Campbell. All knew that on that day that Baron Byron and Baroness Fiona would retire from their thrones in Rising Waters, and that also on that day Ben Dunfirth would be raised to Baronial status. But few dreamed that in the midst of Court Prince David and Princess Elina would suddenly fall dead of poisoning. Since no Principality may be without a Prince and Princess, Roak stepped forward to claim the Coronet, escorted by an armed guard and numerous dancing ladies of the East. The City of Eoforwic provided him with seventeen polearms for his escort (many wrought by Glorimere Galbraith, who was becoming well known for such things and for his other skills, especially explosions of various sorts). When it came time to bring forth his consort, he lifted the helm from one of his escort to reveal Tarkwyn of Balanjar. Their first act as Prince and Princess was to appoint Onami as Sheriff (with the appropriate regalia) with the charge of finding the murderer of Their now very Serene and Supine Highnesses, whose ghosts were seen walking the grounds the rest of the day, looking quite pale and rattling chains.

As was the custom, a most chivalrous tourney was waged, which was won by Tarquin the Red, Champion to King Brannos, foreshadowing events to come. But few surpassed Don Zadok for gentility, for he fought for Countess Elaina (a lady originally of the East) and his retinue comprised the Flowers of Ealdormere, including Laurels, Principality officers, fencers, archers, artisans, and others of merit, and there were some twenty of them.

Later that day indeed did Baron Byron and Baroness Fiona retire, deeding their coronets to Genevieve and Malik, along with various regalia, including a most curious duck. Many eyes were teary, for Fiona and Byron had touched many lives. Then the people of Ben Dunfirth were called forward and the canton was elevated to baronial status, and Tarkatai and Thyra created as its first Baron and Baroness, and Baron Malik and Baroness Genevieve gave them their first regalia-- including the aforementioned duck. The City of Eoforwic gave fine shields to each new Baronial couple in honour of the occasion. On this day also were three of the City honoured with Purple Frets: Gaerwen of Trafford, for her long term service; Ines de Freytis for her work on a guide to the merchants of Ealdormere and as autocrat; and Rhys ap Bledri, for his services as a herald and general all-around volunteer.

May A.S. XXX (C.E. 1995)

he first weekend of the new year saw the citizens of Eoforwic take different paths. Two of the scholars, Nicolaa and Elaine, traveled to that place known in the vernacular as "K'zoo" to present their findings to the world, and there they found much mirth and cheap wine, along with Jarla Brynhildr, now dwelling in lands far to the west.

Others of the City followed Prince Osis a-viking to Red Spears. And what transpired there was this: Brannos, the King, received word that in the East, trouble brewed, and so donning his helm, he made the vow of the Crusader. Setting aside his crown for a Crusader's badge, he gave Rebekah, his Queen, into the safekeeping of the Sisters of the Snood, that she might await his return in the sanctuary of a nunnery. Prince Roak now found himself nominally in charge, which caused a muffled giggle. And thus sat the Crowns of State on the Thrones for several hours, under the watchful eye of Duchess Lisa, Seneschale of the Midrealm, and there was an Interregnum. That evening it seemed appropriate that one be found to rule, and so the herald called for one who could claim the crown. Six hooded figures stepped forward--each claiming to possess one, but not all of the attributes of kingship. Then stepped forth a seventh--who was revealed to be Thorbjorn Osis Brandsson, clothed in black and white, the colours of his household, and wearing upon his arm a ring given to him by the people of Eoforwic. As he pulled forth his knighting sword, it was apparent to all that here was a worthy king, and so he took the crown, and then the sword called Oathbinder, and then did call forth Mistress Valthjona. "Here", he was heard to say as he placed the crown on her brow, "is the first of my gifts to the Middle".

At the point in the ceremony in which Knights are called forth to swear fealty, King Osis also called forth Laurels, Pelicans, Royal Peers, and the Baronage, so that all might be deemed equal in the sight of the populace, and after they had sworn, he bade them face the people and declared "These are your Peers. Use them well". And later he gave his armring to Sigurd the Bard, who had devised this ceremony for him. This was one of twenty such rings, one for each year of Eoforwic's existence, which had been presented to Osis and Valthjona, for it is the Viking way to give gifts, and a Viking king should have an ample supply on hand. Many of the folk of Eoforwic had contributed to the making of these gifts, and the King's thanks were later expressed in a royal missive to the City.

Also in this month was a daughter born to Feardubh and his lady Barbara, and she was called Seren. Those who saw her saw she had the hands of a bassoonist. Also in the far lands of the North was Ancarett Nankivellis delivered of a girl baby, called Eleanor.

Far to the South, in the lists to determine a Heirs to the Dragon Throne, Tarquin the Red prevailed and set the coronet on the brow of his lady Aoibhilen. Tarquin, though not yet a knight, had stood as champion to King Brannos and was well known as a most chivalrous man, though it was said that he was sorely shocked to have prevailed that day, and that his lady nearly swooned in shock. Also on that weekend was the great Arts and Sciences Fair, where Nicolaa took a first place in Research.

June A.S. XXX (C.E. 1995)

s was customary, Petrea Thule hosted a tourney and revel at the opening of the month, this time in honour of Sir Menken, who had reached his fortieth year. Great tales were told there of the fame of this good knight, and many wore garments of black and white chequey in honour of him. Sir Menken himself fought forty challenges that day, and each who bested him was allowed to select a gift from his vast treasury. The final challenge was offered by Ceallach, and the two fought an epic battle with greatsword. Because of the inclement weather, all retired to an indoor arena where a certain sport was practiced, and heralds did cry "Armour inspection at centre ice!" The tourney itself was in the warlord format, and won by Don Zadok. And Albrecht was judged the most flamboyant fencer, and received as a prize a most flamboyant hat.

It was also about the time that Mistress Rhiannon announced that she would soon leave for the land of Albion again, there to visit her true love (whom all agreed was a pleasing sight), and perhaps to stay forever. Meanwhile, those of the City continued to marvel at the speed of Lothar at the art of mail-making. He was making a shirt of wondrous construction for Madeline, who hoped the wearing of it would rouse young gentlemen to give alms to the poor. This Lothar was not the Lothar of earlier Eoforwic history, but another gentle altogether. He had at this time been regularly seen in Eoforwic for about a year.

I have heretofore only alluded to the preparations for Eoforwic's Twentieth Anniversary celebration. According to the first Chronicle, the first Tourney in Eoforwic was held in March A.S. IX, the first meeting having taken place many months before. It was decided that the first tourney, not the first meeting, should be commemorated, and that July was a more pleasing month than March. Thus, endeavors were made to secure the great Hall at Trinity College, where City revels had oft been held. Alas, but the scholar monks there no longer offered their hospitality so freely, and so the City was forced to look elsewhere. It was at this point that Cassandra stepped forward. It seemed that the grounds of a local grammar school with whom she was employed might prove suitable and inexpensive. This was important: For several months now, the people of Eoforwic had been donating the fruits of their labours to raffles to raise money so that Eoforwic's hospitality could be extended free of any gate tolls. The site was eventually procured, and thus the planning began in earnest. As in days of old, Mistress Tamarra would cook the feast. Great tourneys with both knightly weapons and those of the courtier would be offered, with splendid prizes to the victors and those judged most chivalrous, and an exhibition of the arts and sciences would also be held, with similarly spectacular prizes. Elspeth had formed a friendship with a troupe of actors from Carolingia, and had arranged for them to visit with a commedia play. A display of relics from Eoforwic history was also planned, and many contests with many prizes. (Hector had volunteered his services for procuring these, and he had elicited many donations). Gwynfyr had taken on the duties as steward, though the majority of the planning was done by a committee of many of the folk of the City. There was hardly a citizen who did not have an assigned task of some sort.

And lo! Though for most the spring the air had been cooler than normal, Saint Swithin (he who is patron of weather) did from his heavenly seat espy the people of Ealdormere traveling to Ben Dunfirth, and said, "it must be Murder Melee again", and lo! while it was pleasing fair weather, some part of Hell near to that Barony opened wide and spewed forth great heat, and the folk were forced to cavort in their underwear. That day Aibhilen of Skye, whose cooking and skill with herbs had won wide acclaim, was elevated that day. And Master Hector was placed on vigil by the Order of the Pelican, to his great surprise. Also was Nicolaa de Bracton inducted into the Order of the Bee (becoming only the second person admitted to the Bee, Golden Otter, and Peregrine, as testify the Chronicles of St. Brand), and Eoin o Beirne of the Two Baronies made noble.

July A.S. XXX (C.E. 1995)

s was now customary, the fighters of Septentria gathered in the lands of Ardchreag to prepare for the upcoming conflict. And here they trained in many areas--on bridges and fields, in woods and town. It was here noted that the Cult of St. Brand was spreading far and wide, as one could now visit his shrine and purchase pilgrimage tokens of chequey sable and or. And Ursula once again provided wondrous food for all, and so concerned with these duties was she that King Osis sent emissaries to ensure she was brought to his Court--where she was made a Baroness of that Court, not so much by him, but by the acclaim of all the folk there assembled. Here also was Hector raised to the Order of the Pelican, and many folk spoke on his behalf, and twice he was nearly moved to tears. And since no medallion had been provided in advance, a short time before the ceremony Countess Caitlin undertook to make one from cut metal, and did cut herself in the doing of it; the blood may still be seen on that medallion today.

Also were challenges presented to the White Bear Fian by many folk, and a most amusing challenge presented to House Hrogn by some folk of Lochac by Mercedes, who had acted as ambassador to those parts. Thinking it a more traditional drinking challenge, Osis readily accepted on behalf of his household. It involved downing large quantities of milk and saying "Wah Hoo" whilst making odd gestures resembling moose antlers with ones' hands if successful, and switching to raspberry cordial when the milk ran out, and truly was a test of ones' manhood. The challenge was set for Pennsic XXV, at which time Osis would hopefully not be encumbered by Kingdom business.

And--mirabile visu--here occurred another miracle of the Blessed Brand, for Dona Mercedes' money pouch went astray that day. After appealing to Our Saint, whose patronage is lost objects, the pouch did reappear in Mercedes' waggon; in thanks she did proffer at his shrine fresh strawberries, which Brand had often said made the toils of a saintly life most bearable.

The day appointed for Eoforwic's Anniversary celebration approached rapidly, and many of the citizenry were thrown into a frenzy of final preparations, not the least of which was the titanic struggle of Mercedes and James Douglas against the Byzantinesque bureaucracy of the modern town authorities to gain approval for the beer tent. Since James was particularly distracted by these cares and had little time to think of clothing himself for the celebration, Nicolaa and Ysabeau conspired to construct for him two tunics, one for work and one for dress, which they presented to him the week before. And many folk came to Hector's house to paint signs and etch armrings, and in the midst of this Hector asked Gaerwen of Trafford to consider becoming his first protege.

And what of the Twentieth Anniversary celebration itself? The day itself dawned bright and sunny, but oppressively hot, though this kept only a few revelers away. And many old and newer friends came from far away: Robert of Two Cliffs and Jane of Hendon from the far West; Duke Finnvarr de Taahe and Ragni from the North, Master Brusten de Bearsul, who had been at the first Eoforwic Demo, from the South, and Master Bertram of Bearington and Viscount Haakon Oaktall and Viscountess Eleanor from the East. And many names of Eoforwic historical fame were seen about once again: Mistress Mortraeth (who brought the greetings of Master Sylard, who was detained that weekend by his blacksmithy), Jamie Nusbacher, Torbin of Amberhall, and Tarver the Pole, among others. Master Brusten brought with him the True stick of Eoforwic, which had thrown the first blow in that first demo many years ago, and wore for part of the day a surcote dating from that time as well. (And Christine Demerchant fashioned a fabulous reliquary for a piece of the True Stick--a silver locket cradled in a painted box--for which she gained not only a prize of her choice, but a precious splinter of the Stick). And other relics were displayed as well--Sylard's AoA scroll and the second knife he ever etched, a helm first worn by Graf Hugo and by many others in subsequent years, the original coronets of Aedan and Caffa, favours exchanged by Torbin and Ragni in the second year of Eoforwic, a favour embroidered by Caitlin Stuart, the sword "Victory-taker" belonging to Tarver the Pole, copies of plays performed over the years in Eoforwic (one entitled, rather prophetically, "Sir Rosis of Liver"), copies of the Eoforwic Charter and of sumptuary laws from past years, the mayoral Schaube of Gunthar Wallenstein, which was subsequently donated to the City regalia, and many personal scrapbooks. Of Murphy the Sheep more will be said later.

Those who came to the celebration were greeted by a table nigh bursting with prizes donated by the folk of Eoforwic and their friends. And many brought their crafts to display on a special table, and few had seen so many wondrous items in one place before--it was indeed hard to choose which was the best.

But in the end a leather pouch by Dragolen, who had traveled far for the celebration, was admired most, and he won for himself a special machine wrought by Dremel. And Tsharyl Larmer's intricate embroidery, Lothar's dress of mail, Marcan's carved and painted bow box, and Nicolaa's red dress were also chosen to receive prizes. But one of the most glorious creations was erected outside--the gate of Eoforwic, carved by Jasper, from which was suspended small shields bearing the arms of the City folk.

Though it was almost unbearably hot, great things were done on the field that day. Rhys ap Bledri successfully challenged into the White Bear Fian, and both Percival and Albrecht Stampher were commissioned as fighters. And Duke Finnvarr and Master Brusten then stepped forward, both wearing several items which dated back twenty years, and fought a first bout, reenacting the first Eoforwic demo so many years before, and Brusten fought with the True Stick, as he had on that day. Next, a tournament in the warlord style was waged, and in the end, the team led by a man of Araby (now of the Rhydderich Hael) bested that led by Berus Wolfsson. And he chose as a prize a knife wrought by Douglas, and Berus a stocked wooden feast chest. Then the fighters did amuse themselves in a Bear Pit, which was won by Rori Cennedi, called "The Kid". And finally, a random fighter was chosen to receive a prize, and thus did Sir Menken gain a beautiful spear.

Upon another field, the rapier fighters held forth, and once again, many folk had traveled a great distance to participate. Before the tournament, a mock brawl was held, and great mirth was had as the fencers fought with mock sausages, hams, a doumbek and a viol, fish and cats, and a huge axe, mallet, and anvil. Then the challenge tourney began. In the end, Hoskuld and Andreas wagered all their earnings on a single series of bouts--which Andreas won, thus claiming the rapier Glorimere Galbraith had fashioned as a prize. Ottar Finnson was second, and took home a parry cloak sewn by Nicolaa, and Gareth took home a mail glove wrought by Edward the Chaste. A random name was drawn as well, and Illaria--who said she'd never won anything--took home a small axe.

Later that day, Hoskuld decided to retire from his burden as Principality Marshal of Fence, and asked Nicolaa to take his place.

In the afternoon, the troupe I Sebastiani, who had traveled to Eoforwic from the East on the invitation of Elspeth, presented a play in the Commedia style, which was greeted by a standing ovation. The actors had been sponsored by the folk of Eoforwic, and indeed, were commemorated in the play itself.

Because of the great heat, the evening's feast was moved outside. It was cooked, as in many years past, by Tamarra, and was delicious to eat. A vendor of dessert ices happened by in the middle of the dinner, and many enjoyed his wares. As the feast wore on, a competition developed amongst the servers to most creatively announce the availability of water, and indeed two of them held a race from the rear of the tables to the seat of Prince Roak--who then asked that they dump some over his head. One of these gentles, attending his first event, was dubbed "Hydro of Eoforwic" and given a writ by Alderman Vychata, acting in the Lord Mayor's stead, after the festivities to carry the banner of Eoforwic abroad and claim what territories he might, although it was thought that should he claim that turbulent land of Bosnia that it be presented to Drachenwald as a gift.

In the interval between courses, the infamous Foote the Potter gifted the City with a very large fish, supposedly the "Salmon of Knowledge", and Eoforwic set about the business of fish-farming apace.

After dinner, the revelers retired to close by the beer tent for Court, where several things were done. First, Baron Ieuan and Baroness Adrielle held forth. Rhys was formally inducted into the White Bear Fian. Hector stepped forward then and presented an armring, which had been gifted to to him by King Osis, to Nicolaa, for the service she had given in preparation for the festivities. Angus Albani was taken as a scutifer by the Baron and Baroness. Then Glandydd and Kes were called forward, and given a new award--the Award of the Bear's Blue Balls. (the observant noted it greatly resembled in shape the infamous Nose of Shame from the Twelfth Night past). And finally, one of Eoforwic's oldest members was given a Bear's Heart--Murphy the Sheep. Also, as the Lord Mayor could not be found, Alderman Gunthar stepped forward to thank all on the occasion of this s auspicious anniversary. Later, Gunnar did step forward, and apologized for his lateness, presenting gifts to the Crowned Heads in Court, as is his wont.

Prince Roak also held a short court, in which Cassandra and James Douglas were both made armigerous, a pleasing end to a long day of work for both of these good folk. Also was Gaerwen of Trafford formally made the protege of Hector that day.