The (More or Less) Complete History of
The Shire of the Shadowlands
The Capital of Ansteorra
Compiled by Honorable Lord Paedric OMullan
Prologue
This is a history of the Shire of the Shadowlands, being a true and factual account of the events, activities, awards, and general goings-on of this fair Shire from its earliest days unto the present time, along with the Shire’s Seneschals and Chroniclers. It has been compiled through careful study of the annals by Honorable Lord Paedric OMullan, Chronicler and Historian. Begun on this, the Ides of March, in the Year of our Society XLIII.
In March, AS XI, members of the SCA journeyed into the wilderness which would become the Shadowlands, performing a demo at AggieCon VIII. It is believed that one of these travelers was called Robert Galvannyzed of Stargate. This is the first known contact between the Knowne Worlde and the future Shadowlands.
According to Lord Caradoc ap Owain, who was once called Morfin, “The Shadowlands got its start in Cepheid Variable. The founding members were all in Cepheid Variable. They first got together to discuss starting an SCA group in spring/summer 1977, with the first meetings held on campus in Fall of ‘77” (AS XII). During this time were a name chosen and a slate of officers filled. The Shire name and device were submitted to the Heralds in November of AS XII. But of other details of these very early days, I know not. There are many still living who know more these times than I. It is to be hoped that some will step forward with information to fill these gaps in my knowledge.
In October and November of that year the Shadowlands participated in the SCA demo at the Texas Renaissance festival, at which they had the second largest participation of any group.
Written annals of the Shire of the Shadowlands begin in February of AS XII with the first issue of The Shadow Knows. Therein is mentioned the Shadowlands first organized participation at any event, which was at Elf Stomp in the Barony of Stargate, and the Shire’s participation in the SCA demo at the Texas Renaissance festival. Also detailed in this missive is the story of the first event held in the Shire of the Shadowlands, which was a Newcomers Revel. Although it was expected to be attended only by members of the Shire, newcomers, and a few invitees, many others came as well. Prince Sean MacFlamm and Princess Katherina von Alyssin, first Prince and Princess of the newly formed Principality of Ansteorra, attended and held court. This was on the 21st day of January, in the Year of our Society XII. The event was reportedly a huge success, and from that day forward the Shire of the Shadowlands became famous for the quality of its revels. And in those days was Charles Corwinson the Seneschal of the Shire of the Shadowlands, and Milo O’Shawlin was the Chronicler.
In February of that same year did sixteen Ansteorrans travel far to the west to join the Aten Army in war against the kingdom of the West. Fully a quarter of these hailed from the Shadowlands. It was here that the Sable Star first made its presence known, as eight warriors clad alike in golden tabards blazoned with a black star rallied under the Aten Sun banner, and of those eight, three were Shadowlanders, and they were Otto the Merciless, Charles Corwinson, and Godfrey Fosse. Details of this momentous event are found in the April AS XII issue of The Shadow Knows, and corroborated in the memoirs of Lady (now Countess) Tessa of the Gardens.
And in March the Shadowlands held a demo at AggieCon IX.
In April of that same year the Shadowlands hosted King’s College/University of Ansteorra, and this was the first of these. It was there that Charles Corwinson received an Award of Arms. In that same month was published a Domesday which included 44 members.
And the year drew to a close.
In May of the new year AS XIII the Shadowlands hosted Tax Day Tourney One Month Late, and that was the first tournament hosted by the Shadowlands. The Chivalric list was won by Sir Andelion du Axegarth, who won the title of Impecable Reprobate of the Shadowlands (IRS). Lord Tivar Moondragon won the swashbuckling (rapier) list. On Sunday morning attendees were given instruction in war/melee tactics by Prince Sean MacFlamm.
In June Milo O’Shawlin,who had been Shadowlands Chronicler, became Chronicler of the Principality of Ansteorra.
In December did Otto the Merciless receive an Award of Arms.
In January/February, the Shadowlands once again held a demo at AggieCon X.
In February of AS XIII a new Chronicler did publish The Shadow Knows, and that was Alec Ravensquill. It told little of what had gone before, except to say that a plague of finals had descended upon the Shire. Among coming events it mentioned a Newcomer’s Revel, to be held in February, and King’s College of Ansteorra to follow in March, both in the Shadowlands. And again the voice of the Shadowlands fell silent, albeit briefly this time.
In March of that year, at King’s College, did Godfrey Fosse advance to the rank of Laurel, and he was the first peer in the Shadowlands. That same weekend did Godfrey become a member of the Ordo Aristotelis Discipuli, and Milo O’Shawlin of Tara received an Award of Arms
In April did Aleana o’r Serennoorwydd receive an Award of Arms.
On April 30 the Shire held a New Year’s Eve Revel, marking the passing of the Year of our Society XIII. The SCA year, as all should know, begins on May 1st, which marks the anniversary of the May Day Revel at which the Society began.
In May of AS XIV came a short missive introducing a new Chronicler, Buchwald Flashingquill. Also in May did many from the Shadowlands attend the first Ansteorran Crown tourney in Bryn Gwlad. In the final round did Duke Jonathon deLaufeson, called Macebearer, defeat Lord Otto the Merciless, of the Shire of the Shadowlands. Lord Otto’s consort that day was Rowen of Camphire, who would go on to later win fame and glory in her own right. On that same day did Doyel Mor Ser receive an Aristotelis Discipuli, and Anna Czujneja received a Gilded Thorn of Ansteorra and an Award of Arms.
In June was scheduled a Midsummer Revel in the Shadowlands. Also in June AS XIV did Jonathon take the crown as the first sovereign King of the new Kingdom of Ansteorra. At Coronation did Lord Charles Corwinson and lord Otto the Merciless receive the Circle of the Ascending Star, and lady Aleana o’r Serennoorwydd did receive a Gilded Thorn of Ansteorra, and these were Principality awards, and the Orders were closed that day, as Ansteorra became a Kingdom.
Shadowlands Original Name and Device Submissions.
And in August did the Shire hold ANOTHER revel (and did not even bother with a reason).
In September did the Shadowlands hold ANOTHER revel, this one a Newcomers Revel, which forty people attended, including a dozen new to the SCA. Also in the September missive was a report on several heraldic submissions, including the Shire of the Shadowlands device, which was then at the Kingdom level. And in those days did Lord Otto the Merciless succeed his brother Lord Charles as the Shadowlands Seneschal.
In October of AS XIV The Shadow Knows did publish a Domesday Boke listing 56 members of the Shire. Tragedy struck the Shadowlands that month as LaShan Muhlinghaus, one of the Shire’s newcomers, was found murdered in her home. And her killer was caught and executed some years later.
Also in October, at an All Hallows Eve Revel, was Buchwald Flashingquill given the first Meritorious Order of the Shire of the Shadowlands (MOSS), apparently for publishing a newsletter for five consecutive months, a feat neither of his predecessors could match. It was said the award would be given at each local event (and if you didn’t notice, they were having a revel almost every month).
And in December of that year the Shire had a Yule revel.
That January the Shadowlands hosted King’s College/University of Ansteorra, the third of its kind. In those times King’s College was Shadowlands’ yearly event, not the Kingdom level event it has become. Of course, there was a feast and revel that Saturday night. And Lloyd von Eaker and Joselyn Allyne Reynard were the second to wear the Stellar Crown.
And in February of the same year there was NO revel. But Egan O’Keefe received an award of Arms at Candlemas in Bryn Gwlad.
In March the Shadowlands held an A&S Faire in conjunction with StageCenter’s production of Richard III.
And on April 31 (a neat trick, if I may say so) the shire of the Shadowlands held a New Year’s Eve Revel.
And so ended the Year of our Society XIV.
In May of AS XV the Arms of the Shire of the Shadowlands were officially registered at the Imperium level. Also in May, the Shadowlands hosted the kingdom for Ansteorra’s third Crown tournament. Sir Jan w Orzeldom won that day, and in June, he and Mistress Kemreth Danil became the third pair to reign over Ansteorra. Also at Crown Tourney did the Shadowlands Players perform the play “Pyramus and Thisbe,” and that same day did Buchwald Flashingquill receive an Award of Arms.
In September of that year the Shire held a Newcomer’s Revel. Nearly 60 people attended.
In October and November the Shadowlands participated in the SCA demo at the Texas Renaissance Festival. In October was held an All Hallows Eve Revel, at the Texas Renaissance Festival.
In November a Shire Domesday was published, and it included 58 people.
And in December was held a Yule Revel, and it was attended by their Royal Highnesses Sigmund and Sieglinde. It was there that Jaheane MacRob of Winters Hills received a Sable Thistle for haberdashery, and an Award of Arms. Also in December did the Chronicler, Lord Buchwald Flashingquill, retire, having served long and well in that office. And then Waldre Kenwolf was the Chronicler.
And in January were crowned Sigmund the Wingfooted and Sieglinde Syr, the Fourth King and Queen of Ansteorra.
In February of that year the Shire of the Shadowlands did host King’s College/University of Ansteorra, and that was the fourth. At King’s College was Anna Czujneja elevated to the order of the Laurel, and she was the second peer in the Shire of the Shadowlands. That same day did Elynor Glendewyn the Overlooked finally get noticed, as did Thorwald Hraffson Dragonflier, as they both received Awards of Arms.
In April was held the Tax Day Tourney, and that year it had a two-man melee format. First place and the title Impeccable Reprobates of the Shadowlands (IRS) was a tie between the team of Vlad Ravna and Torin Earthsheart, called the Stargators, and the team of Sean de Carew and Olaf Armcrusher, called Large and Ugly (but I don’t know which was which, or if both were both). Third place and the title Defenders of Otisburg (DO) went to the team of Ricardo di Pisa and Lief Wadason, called Bringers of Death. And the prize for the Defenders of Otisburg was the Otisburg Helm, a combat legal helmet covered with blue and black shag carpet, crowned with yellow dingle balls, and crested with a neon-green, springy, waving hand bearing the motto “Have a Nice Day!” Ignatz the Ignoble won the chess tourney, and Rhiannon of the Misty Forest won the backgammon tourney. And that same day did Waldre Kenwolf receive an Award of Arms.
Thus did another year draw to a close.
On New Year’s Day of AS XVI the Shadowlands did hold a demo at Oakwood Middle School, in conjunction with their Medieval Fair. And in this month was formed a Swashbucklers Guild, the Fellowship of Errol.
And in June did Mistress Anna Czujneja succeed Lord Otto the Merciless as seneschal.
In September of that year was held a Newcomer’s Revel and Shadowlands Warlord Tourney, at which Caradoc ap Owain received a MOSS. There did Egan O’Keefe and Stiller Teilhaber, called Teddy Bear, tie for first place in the armored list. And Toshida Iyesu Noh-Anjiwara won the rapier list, but it was called swashbuckling in those days. Toshida also won the Boffers and Bells contest.
A week later, at the Tax Day Audit Tourney, Olaf Armcrusher, formerly either Large or Ugly (or both), won the armored list and retained the title “Impecable Reprobate of the Shadowlands” (IRS). Sir Elzasif Ironhand, reigning Queen of Ansteorra (of which she was the fifth) finished second in the tourney, and received the title “Defender of Otisburg” (DO). Her prize was the Otisburg Shield, a combat legal shield covered in blue and black shag carpet. Queen Elzasif was then gifted with the Otisburg Helm, which had been awarded to Sir Ricardo at Tax Day. It is rumored that Countess Sir Elzasif actually used both the helm and shield in combat on the list field. Hrabia Jan w Orzeldom won the chess tourney, and Lady Tamera Perovaronova won the backgammon tourney
In November of that year did the Shadowlands host a Dance Workshop, the first of its kind in these lands.
In February of that year the Shadowlands did host King’s College.
And it was around this time that Lady Waldre Kenwolf stepped down as Chronicler, and Mistress Anna Czujneja stepped down as seneschal, and Mistress Anna became the Chronicler and Corrinne O’Daugherty became the Seneschal of the Shadowlands.
And in April did the Shadowlands host Tax Day Tourney III. The winner’s name was not recorded, but that person earned the title “Impeccable Reprobate of the Shadowlands” (IRS). Neither was the second place finisher’s name recorded, but that person received the title “Defender of the Shadowlands” (DS). In third place was Stiller Teilhaber, and he received the title “Otisburg’s Dubious Defender” (ODD). His prize was a short sword, covered in blue and black fake fur, with the striking edge marked with yellow dingle balls, which came to be known as the Otisburg Chainsaw. Stiller’s lady, Daralyn McBrye, was given the title “Miss Otisburg,” along with a sash of blue and black fake fur with a large yellow bow at the shoulder. Also in April did the Shadowlands perform another Demo at the Oakwood Middle School Renaissance Fair, and so ended AS XVI.
Little is known of the early months of AS XVII, but a Summer Revel was held during the summer (a most auspicious time for it). By October Stiller Teilhaber was the Seneschal, and Mistress Anna Czujneja published her last newsletter before stepping down.
In September did Doyel Mor-Ser receive a Sable Comet, the first for service to the Shadowlands.
Sterregazers Gylde of the Shire of the Shadowlands, Name and badge submissions, Nov AS XVII
And in December Lady Waldre Kenwolf was the Seneschal, and Gregaoir MagAonguis was the Chronicler.
In February of that year did the Shadowlands again host University of Ansteorra/King’s College, and that was the last University of Ansteorra, before King’s College went on the road.
And on April 31 (still a neat trick) did the Shire hold a New Year’s Eve Revel, and so passed a rather uneventful year.
On May 14-15, in the Year of our society XVIII did the Shire of the Shadowlands host its first Tournament of the Round Table, to find the most well-rounded fighter in the realm. A fighter called Blade won the armored list, with Don David Gallowglass finishing second. Don Durmast von die Wanderlust won the swashing (rapier) list, with Aymbros finishing second. Sir Tarl Mapt won the bardic competition, and finished second in the chess and heraldry competitions. Master Telbyrn Morningstar won the heraldry competition, and finished second in bardic and dance. Lord Sentri won the dance competition, and Ignatz the Ignoble won the chess tourney. When all was said and done, Master Telbyrn Morningstar and Sir Tarl Mapt tied for the most points, and shared the title Champion of the round Table. And it was there that Owain ap Ioan, Caradoc ap Owain, and Rhiannon received Awards of Arms, while Aleana o’r Serennoorwydd and Gregaoir Mag Aonguis received Sable Thistles. And the rains did fall. A lot.
In August of that year did the Sterregazeres Gylde have an unofficial Sterre Partie at Lake Somerville to coincide with the Perseied meteor shower. Also in August did Lady Waldre Kenwolf step down as Seneschal, and then was Lord Doyel Mor-Ser the Seneschal.
In November did the Shadowlands host the Feast of St. Martin, at which was held the first recorded Title Bard competition for the Bard of the Shadowlands. Alas, no record was made of the winner of this competition.
In February of that year did Lord Gregaoir MagAonguis step down as Chronicler, and the new Chronicler was Lady Rosamond Carmody. And in these days was The Shadow Knows often filled with interesting and learned articles about various and diverse subjects, but little information about the events, revels, and other activities of the Shire.
In March did Corinne Elizabeth Drake and Brendan O Corraidhe receive Awards of Arms.
In April the Shadowlands scheduled the second Round Table Tourney, but no records of it remain. And so passed another year.
In June of this year was Moira the chronicler.
In October of this year did Falke von Rheinfels receive a White Scarf, and he was the first Don in the Shadowlands.
In November of this year was Nichole Alicia Marie du Beaumains the Chronicler.
In March was held an Alternate Persona Party and Tourney. Also was held the University of the Shadowlands, but of details there are none.
Also was lost a copy of the script of Monty Python and the Holy Grail owned by Lord Caradoc ap Owain, and a notice was posted in the Shadow Knows for that month, though it is unknown whether it was ever returned.
And in April was Catherine Marie d’Evreux the Chronicler. Also in April did the Shadowlands host the Round Table Tournament, and this was the third. But no record of the results remains. And in April were battle lines drawn with Atenveldt at the Great Western in Bonwincke, though the outcome is unknown.
And so another year was passed.
In May of AS XX did Lady Jeheane McRob of Winter Hills become the acting Seneschal.
In July of that year the shire hosted the Shadowlands Lakeside Eisteddfod, at which was chosen the second Title Bard of the Shadowlands, and the winner of that competition was not recorded. And also in July were Society-wide standards for armor and weapons to take into effect, issued by the Board of Directors.
In September was scheduled a Saint Michaelmas event to be hosted by the Shadowlands, but of details there are none.
By October of the same year did Freiherr Falke von Rhienfels become the Seneschal of the Shadowlands. Also in October was held a Halloween party sponsored by the Ladies Sewing and Terrorist Guild.
In December was there a great unrest within the Shadowlands, but that is outside the scope of my work.
In March of that year did Jeheane MacRob of winter Hills become a Companion to the Order of the Iris of Merit.
And in April of that year did the Shadowlands host the Round Table Tournament, and that was the fourth. It was here that the title “Artisan of the Shadowlands” was first awarded. And the winner was Lady (now Mistress) Alisandre Oliphant. And it was she who designed and registered the badge for the Artisan of the Shadowlands. Also at Round Table did Caradoc ap Owain receive a Sable Comet for his service to the Shadowlands and Aleana o’r Serennoorwydd did become a Companion to the Order of the Iris of Merit. That same day did Gwendolyn Estasia Lanere, Peregrine du Lac, Gaspard du Lac, and Casandra du Ruisselet receive Awards of Arms.
Thus did another year end.
In June of the new year AS XXI did Lord Albrek Ice Axe become the Seneschal of the Shadowlands.
In July of that year did HL Jeheane McRob become Chronicler.
In August did the Shadowlands, in conjunction with Stargate, host Elfstomp and Eisteddfod. Lady Rowaen de Camphire and Sir Hector Phillip Martel won the water list, and were given the titles Lady and Lord of the Lake. The winner for best poem was Vlad Ravna, the winner for best story was Fidelm ni Vidhir, and the winner for best song was Rebekah. And a new Bard of the Shadowlands was chosen, and that was Rebekah.
In September the Shire did hold a Newcomers Revel.
In October and November did the shire participate at the Texas Renaissance Festival.
In February of that year the Shadowlands hosted a return visit of King’s College. It was there that Corinne Elizabeth Drake received a Sable Thistle for embroidery.
In April was held the fifth Tournament of the Round Table, and it was there that Mistress Alisandre defended her title as Artisan of the Shadowlands. Catherine Marie Elisabeth d’Evreux did receive a Sable Comet for her service to the Shadowlands. That same day did Amos MacAlpin receive an Award of Arms, and a Sable Thistle for ironmongery. Also did Peregrine du Lac receive a Sable Thistle for embroidery.
And so ended the year AS XXI.
In August of the new year did the Shadowlands host the second Eisteddstomp. Presumably a new Bard of the Shadowlands was chosen, but no record remains.
In September was there a Newcomer’s Revel. In that same month did the Shadowlands host another King’s College.
In October did Lady Antoinette Louise become the Shadowlands Chronicler.
In October and November the Shadowlands participated at the Texas Renaissance Festival.
In November did Doyel Mor-Ser receive a Sable thistle for winemaking.
Badge of the Artisan of the Shadowlands, submitted November AS XXII
In January was there a Twelfth Night Feast and Revel.
In February did Doyel Mor-Ser become a Companion to the Order of the Iris of Merit.
And the year AS XXII did draw to a close.
In June of the new year the Shadowlands hosted the Round Table Tournament, and that was the sixth of them.
In September of that year did HL Doyel Mor-Ser return to the office of Seneschal, and he was the first to hold that office twice. Also in September did the shire hold a Newcomers Revel.
In October and November the Shadowlands participated at the Texas Renaissance Festival.
In December the Shire hosted the Kingdom Heraldic Symposium. It was there that Gwendolyn la Lanier and Peregrine du Lac did receive Sable Comets for their service to the Shire. Also there did Abdullah bin Omar and Dathi O’Cooney receive Awards of Arms.
In January Fiacra MacMunna became the new Shire Chronicler.
In February of that same year the Shadowlands hosted the Kingdom Dance Workshop, and there did Jeheane MacRobb of Winter Hills receive a Sable Comet of Ansteorra for her service to the Shadowlands.
And it was around this time that I, Lord Paedric O’Mullan, first came to the Knowne Worlde, and the Shire of the Shadowlands.
And in April did the Shire do a demo at AggieCon. In the chess match I was the Keeper of the Holy Hand Grenade.
And the old year has passed.
In May of AS XXIV the Shadowlands hosted Round Table Tournament for the seventh time, and there is no record of the outcome. But it was here that Lord Jin Liu Chiang, Lady Sorcha ni Faolain, Fiacra MacMunna, Lord Alryk of the Shadowlands and Katherine Barrett became members of the Order of the Shadow (OS).And this was my first event.
That summer did Lady Realtatana Faol, who was commonly called Starwolf, serve as the temporary Chronicler, until Fiacra returned.
The 21st King and Queen of Ansteorra were Patrick Michael Gordonne and Julia de Montoya.
In July of that year did the Shire of the Shadowlands host the Tournament of the Queen’s Champion for Queen Julia I, and that was the first time we hosted it. There did Alberic Ice-Axe, Daithi O’Cooney, Kiyama Akei, and Sorcha ni Fhaolain receive Sable Comets for their service to the Shadowlands. Also that day did Dianna Blakeley receive an Award of Arms. And theQueen’s Champion was Don Galen Nicolli.
In September the Shire did hold a Newcomer’s Revel, and the next day did host its Tenth Year Celebration, for in those days they were reckoning the anniversary, not from the date the Shire was first founded, but from the date the Shire achieved full and official Shire status.
It was here that King Patrick Michael was murdered by a careless assassin, who sought to deprive Lord Kiyama Akai of life, and succeeded. King Patrick Michael was an unforeseen complication. And it was one Antoine who did this foul and dastardly deed, as I saw with my own eyes. Fortunately, Queen Julia was able to revive both with a kiss. That night at court Lord Kiyama Akai became the premier recipient of a new award, the Award of the Queen’s Rapier (AQR). Duchess Rowen Beatrice von Kampfir, a former denizen of the Shadowlands, won the Chivalric list, and the Queen’s Champion, Don Galen Nicolli, won the Rapier list. Lady Corinne O’Daugherty that day became the Artisan of the Shadowlands, and Lady Karina des Pensees became the Bard of the Shadowlands. And it was there that Casandra de Ruisselet, Cateau d’Ardennes, Corinne Elizabeth Drake, and Gaspard du Lac received Sable Comets for their service to the Shire. Also that day did Fiacra MacMunna and Ulsted the Unsteady receive Awards of Arms, and Edwina Dirks Sterne, Michael MacKenzie, and Jean Estelle Marie Bouligny become members of the Order of the Shadow.
Fiacra, now a Lord, returned as Chronicler that month. And Lady Sorka ni Faolan, who was the same Starwolf with a new name, became the Seneschal of the Shadowlands.
Shadowlands Populace badge Registration, submitted in Sept, AS XXIV
In December did Chiara receive an Award of Arms.
In January the Shire held a Yule Revel one Month Late, and many of the ladies did dye their hair red for Earnan. Also in January, at Coronation, did Corinne O’Dougherty and Catherine d’Evreux receive Irises of Merit, and Linette Selwayne Varshield and Liassa did receive Awards of Arms.
In March of that same year the Shadowlands did host the 8th Round Table Tournament. Duchess Rowen Beatrice von Kampfir won the chivalric list and overall Championship, and Don Christian Richard Dupre won the rapier list. Lord David the Smith became the Artisan of the Shadowlands and Lord Robyn Solarius became the Bard of the Shadowlands. Lady Rhiannon o Goed Niwlog won the heraldry competition, Lord Siegfried von der Waldet Bergen won the games, and Lord Amos MacAlpin won the dance competition. That same day did Peregrine du Lac become a Companion to the order of the Iris of Merit, and Aleana o’r Gorwydd Serennog received a Sable Comet of Ansteorra for her service to the Shadowlands. Also did Dathi O’Cooney, David the Smith, and Dianna Blakely receive Sable Thistles that day, and Julianna Cathcart did receive an Award of Arms, and Gaspard du Lac a Queen’s Rapier.
And the Chronicler became Lord Geoffrey Charles Scrymger, for that was Fiacra MacMunna’s new name.
And it was around this time that Lord Tadhg Laith of Duncairn, Ansteorra Star Principal Herald, likened the proposed Badge of the Shadowlands to a “Mystic Decoder Ring,” and for that the Shire thanks him.
And so did the year end.
In June of the new year the Shire held an Otisburg Revival Festival at Loch Otismere.
Also in June did Lord Caradoc ap Owain become the new Chronicler. And in those days The Shadow Knows was once again filled with many informative and interesting, and often entertaining articles, but little of historical use, except for some information about Otisburg.
In July of that year did the Shadowlands host the Kingdom Heraldic Symposium, and that was the second time.
In that same month did Patrick Michael II and Julia II become the 23rd pair to wear the Sable Crown.
In August of that year, by command of Queen Julia II, the Shadowlands did host another Queen’s Champion Tourney, which was the second of these we hosted. And it was there that Gaspard du Lac became a Companion of the Order of the White Scarf, and he was the second Don in the Shadowlands, but the first in many years. That same weekend did Albrek Ice Axe become a Companion of the Order of the Iris of Merit. Also there did Madylene nic Earnain and William Aldritt receive Awards of Arms.
In September the Shire did hold a Newcomers Revel.
In October and November many from the Shire did participate at the Texas Renaissance Festival.
In December a Shire Domesday was published, and it included 106 members.
In January of the same year did the Shadowlands hold a Twelfth Candle Revel. Also in January did Duchess Rowen Beatrice von Kampfir, former Shadowlander and reigning Champion of the Round Table, become the Knowne Worlde’s first Queen BY RIGHT OF ARMS. And that same month did Jin Liu Chiang receive a Sable Thistle for research, and Chiara received a Queen’s Glove of Ansteorra.
In April the Shadowlands hosted the Tournament of the Dining Room Table, which was an April Fool’s joke, and it was really the 9th Tournament of the Round Table. Also that day did Dianna Blakely, Geoffrey Charles Bertrand Scrymger, and Jean Estelle Marie Bouligny receive Sable Comets for their service to the Shire. Sorcha ni Fhaolain and Dathi O’Cooney did become Companions of the Order of the Star of Merit. Gwendolyn Estasia Lanere received a Sable Thistle for equestrian arts, and Kaitlyn McKenna, Alessandra Beatrice Desiderio, and Clare Isibeal Seadhachan received Awards of Arms.
And on this day did LLewellyn Brydydd accept a commission from the Queen as a privateer, in exchange for twenty percent of his gains. As it happened, there had been a deluge that day. When the cry went up for assistance of a car stuck in the mud, Captain Brydydd and his mercenary crew sprang into action. Minutes later, having rescued the car, the muddy mercenaries trooped back through the hall to present the Queen her portion of the salvage: the spare tire.
And this was the last event I attended for some years.
Thus ended AS XXV.
In June of the new year did Amos MacAlpin, and Jin Liu Chang receive Sable Comets for their service to the Shadowlands. Also did Anastasia of Shadowlands, Ian Cook and Jude Rivendell receive Awards of Arms. That same day did Renate Johanna Wilhelmina Warnecke receive a Sable Thistle for Blackwork, and Jean Estelle Marie Bouligny a Sable Thistle for costuming.
By August HL Sorcha had stepped down as seneschal, and returned as Chronicler. And Lord Amos MacAlpin then was the Seneschal.
In July did Kaitlyn McKenna receive a Sable Thistle for haberdashery, and Christina Coates, Esther Anne Wright, Nicholas Drake, and Rhiannon NiBryan McLaughlan receive Awards of Arms.
That September the Shire did hold a Newcomers Revel, followed the next day by a Newcomer’s Day Trip to Defender of the Fort in Raven’s Fort.
In January of that same year the Shadowlands did host the coronation of their Majesties Patrick Michael III and Julia III, and they were the 26th to take the Stellar Throne. It was there that Alessandra Beatrice Desiderio and William Aldritt received Sable Comets for their service to the Shire.
Also in January did Lady Renate Johanna Wilhelmina Warnecke become the new Chronicler.
In February the Shire did hold a Twelfth Candle Revel.
In April the Shadowlands did host the Tournament of the Round Table X. The winner of the chivalric list and Defender of the Round Table was Richard de Chinon. The winner of the rapier list was Don Tivar Moondragon. Lord Amos MacAlpin won the archery list, and David van den Storm the heraldry competition. The games competition was won by Cedric the Starcrossed and the dance competition by Corinne Elizabeth Drake and Valentyn Drake. Jalali of Salamis won the bardic competition and became the Bard of the Shadowlands. Lord Jin Liu Ch’ang won the A&S competition and became the Artisan of the Shadowlands.
And the year drew to a close.
In June of the new year did the forces of Ansteorra march east to war against the army of Trimaris. And this was rather unimaginatively called “The War Against Trimaris”, but would later come to be called Gulf War.
By September AS XXVII Lord Geoffrey Charles Scrymger was the Seneschal of the Shadowlands. In September the Shire held a Newcomer’s Revel, followed the next day by a Newcomer’s Day Trip to Defenders of the Fort in Ravensport.
In October the Shadowlands hosted its 15th Year Celebration, and this was reckoned from the date the Shire was founded. And it was there that Aethylian Moondragon, Tivar Moondragon,
Kaitlyn McKenna, and Renate Johanna Wilhelmina Warnecke received Sable Comets for their service to the Shadowlands. Also that day did Ayryel of Skye, Cael the Wolf, Iain Dracher, Isabeau Beauvallet, Morgan of Locksley, Ast Thi, and Orin Ketilsson receive Awards of Arms. Alessandra Desidario received a Sable Thistle for tatting and embroidery, Amos MacAlpin a Sable Thistle for drumming, Esther Ann Wright a Sable Thistle for costuming, and Jin Liu Ch’ang a Sable Thistle for ceramics. Finally, Alessandra Desidario was welcomed into the Meritorious Order of the Shire of the Shadowlands (MOSS), and Tamooj, Deirdre, Tosti, Cecilia, Morgan, Lew, and Ariel were accepted into the Order of the Shadow (OS).
In January was held a Twelfth Candle Revel.
In March was held the Tournament of the Round Table XI. The winner of the chivalric list and bardic competition, and the Champion of the Round Table, was Michael Tamut de Aldea. The Rapier list and A&S competition were both won by Christoforo Antonio Passavanti. Ulrick won the games competition, Peregrine du Lac won the heraldry competition, and Modius Mondragon won the dance competition.
Eventually the year ended.
In June of the new year did the Shire put on a demo at Larry Ringer Library in College Station, in conjunction with the library’s summer reading program.
In July the Shire hosted a Tournament of Champions, to determine the Champion of Champions at Ansteorra’s xXx Celebration, and did enter Duke Ulsted the Unsteady, a former Shadowlander, as our own champion. Alas, he fell in honorable combat to Centurian Lochlan Dunn, the Champion of Elfsea, who became the Champion of Champions.
- In September of AS XLIV did the Shire of the Shadowlands once more hold an Open House Demo, this time in front of the Rec Center. In that same month did the Shire hold a Drum Circle/Revel, and it was well attended. Also that month did Lord Steven Crowley become the Cavalier of the Fort in Ravensfort.
In October of that same year the Shadowlands did turn out for The Battle of Three Queens with nigh on thirty members dressed in Shire livery, and it was a very impressive sight.
Also in that month did Lord Stephen Crowley become a squire of Duke Ulsted the Unsteady and Duke Sigmund the Wing-footed. In that same month did Lord Bastian Eisengart become the new Armored Combat champion of Gate’s Edge, and Master Francois le Flamme the new Archery champion of Bryn Gwlad.Also that month did Catan ingen Míchíl receive a Sable Thistle for weaving, at Lochtoberfest. Other awards were proclaimed that day, but not given until later.
In November many from the Shire did gather at the Texas Renaissance Festival for a day of fun. A short court was held, at which HL Isabelot de Forens received a Sable Thistle for cooking and Lady Luciana Pesce and Lord Tuathal O’Sheill received AoAs. That same month, indeed that very same day, did Lord Stephen Crowley travel far to the north to become, for the second time, Queen’s Champion.
In December, at Stargate Yule, did Lord Faolan MacCairbre receive an Award of Arms.
In January of that same year the Shadowlands did host Fall Ball, (Take II They’re Small). It was there that Lady Catan received a Sable Comet for service to the Shire of the Shadowlands –
Capital of Ansteorra Comet
Capital of Ansteorra. Mistress Kaitlyn won the Bransle-Off and Geographic Heraldry Quiz, and Squiggles won Best Minotaur in the Minotaur’s Maze.
In February was held a small, spur of the moment Mardi Gras Revel.
And in March of that same year the Shadowlands did hold a small drum revel in preparation for War. It was, in fact, more revel than drumming, but that’s okay too. And the Shadowlands did send a large contingent of twenty-two to Gulf War XIX to fight off the invading hordes from Trimaris. It was there that Don Connor MacGillivray received a White Scarf, and he was the third to earn that accolade while living in the Shadowlands, but the first in many years. Also at Gulf War did Lord Stephen Crowley, Champion to her Majesty Genevria, receive the Jeweled Ring of Gleann Abhann by the hand of Her Majesty, Anora, Queen of Gleann Abhann. And in that same month did the Shire Brewing Guild bottle its first batch of beer in a very long time.
In April did a team comprised of current and former Shadowlanders win the Iron Star, an ongoing Kingdom rapier competition, and they were Duke Ulsted the Unsteady, Sir Rhodri ap Gwythyr, Don Cael MacRob, Don Connor MacGillivray, and Lord Stephen Crowley. And two weeks later did Lord Stephen Crowley join the Order of the White Scarf of Ansteorra, and he was the fourth to become a Don in the Shire of the Shadowlands, but the second in as many months. And that same day did Kolfinna in kyrra Ottarsdottir receive an Award of Arms, and Lord Faolan a King’s Archer.
In May of the new year, the Shire did hold a demo at Premeire Cinema in conjunction with the Russell Crowe Robin Hood movie. Also in May did Mistress Kaitlyn win the Archery competition at Dragonsfire Tor.
In June of that year did the shire hold a demo targeted at recruiting new members from the local community. It was well attended by members of the Shire, but, alas, drew little attention from the public. In that same month the Shire did hold an off-calendar event, The Just ‘Cause Tourney, at which Don Simone Nicholls did win the Rapier competition, and Sir Ysfael Bryndu won not one, but two armored combat tournaments. It should be noted that Centurion Eleanor d’Erisbey did finish second in both of those competitions.
And in September of that same year the Shire once more held an Open House demo, and that year it was at Reed Arena. Many were found who were interested in the SCA. Also that month was held a special fighter practice, which was attended by Prince Ulsted, a count, and other fighters from outside the Shire. Congratulations to Ronald fitz Robert, who won the Bowman of the Fort competition in Ravensfort.
In October of that year a large contingent from the Shire did travel to the Battle of Three Commanders, where they were on the victorious side. It was at that same event that Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna did receive a Sable Talon for her skills in archery. In that same month did Lord Bastian Eisengart win the overall championship at the Gate’s Edge Fall Festival.
In November of AS XLV did the Shire of the Shadowlands host the Kingdom for the Coronation of Ulsted V and Ebergardis III. It was there that Ronald fitz Robert, Llywelyn, and Josef Gustavson received their Awards of Arms and Lord Paedric OMullan received a Sable Crane for his service to the kingdom.
In December AS XLV the Shire revived an old tradition, the Order of the Shire of the Shadowlands (OSS), which had not been given in over five years, and another old tradition, the Meritorious Order of the Shire of the Shadowlands (MOSS), which had not been given in even longer. Don Connor, Lord Bastian, Lady Morina, Lady Catan, Lord Ronald, Lady Luciana. Lord Lwyllen, Alfrun, Lady Kolfinna, Lord Faolan, Felix, Vriedel, and Taelor all received OSSes in recognition of their active participation and contributions to the Shire. Lord Bastian Eisengart received the MOSS for his long and extensive service to the Shire.
In January the Shire held its third seasonally challenged Fall Ball, this one with a Viking theme and called Ball-Halla.
In March of the same year many from the Shire went to Gulf Wars XX. It was there that the Shadowlands rapier fighters, along with the rest of the Coastal rapier unit, received the Queen’s Battle Banner, for their prowess on the field, and that Lord Diederic Andrieszen received a Sable Talon for rapier combat.
In April of the same year many from the Shadowlands did travel to Stargate for the Stargate/Loch Soilleir Co-Baronials. It was there that Isobail inghen Gilla Chriosd became a Pelican. Also at that event did Lady Caitlin Labouche receive an Award of Arms and Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna a Sable Thistle for ambiance. And the year AS XLV drew to a close.
In May of the new year three people were received into the Order of the Shadow and they were Kite the Damaged, and Tristram of the Shadowlands, and Aldred of the Shadowlands. In that month also was the Shire of the Shadowlands Achievement of Arms officially registered at the kingdom level after being lost in submission for almost two years. And that same month, at the step-down Court of Ulsted V and Ebergardis III, did Morina O’Donavan, Rhodri ap Gwythyr, Kolfinna in kyrra Ottarsdottir, Catan ingen Míchíl, Stephen Crowley, Isolde die Waeyer, and Orin Ketilsson receive the Golden Star of Ansteorra.
In June of that year the Shire had an Activities Day with Archery, dancing, bardic, and a revel. A good time was had by all.
In September of AS XLVI the Shire once again held an Open House Demo at TAMU, and again it was at Reed Arena. That same month the Shire traveled as a group to Championships of Bryn Gwlad, and there were 2 ½ newcomers who went, and they were Logan, Tori, and Mabel.
The Shadowlands did well at Bryn Gwlad, as Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna won the archery championship, Lord Ronald fitz Robert won the Archery English versus French Competition, Lord Diederic Andreizson was selected to compete in the Rapier Championship Tourney, where he finished second, and Aldred of the Shadowlands earned a place in the Armored Combat Championship Tourney, by winning the Bridge Battle/Melee scenario. Aldred and Kite the Damaged were also given word fame and largesse for their fighting in the Novice Armored Combat Tournament.
In November Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna, HL Isabelot di Forens, Lady Kolfinna in kyrra Ottarsdottir, and Logan of the Shadowlands, all made their first kills as combat archers and received the Shaky Knees award at BAM.
In December Sir Rhodri ap Gwythyr and Lady Caitlin Labouche were accepted into the Order of the Shire of the Shadowlands (OSS), also sometimes called the Order of the Shadow (OS). In January did the Shadowlands host Fall Ball: The Baker’s Bransle, and that was the fourth Fall Ball. At Fall Ball Lord Diederic Andrieszen and Lady Solange de Sarrazin become members of the Order of the Shire of the Shadowlands, and Lady Kolfinna in kyrra Ottarsdottir was accepted into the Meritorious Order of the Shire of the Shadowlands (MOSS). Lord Diederic also won the rapier list, and a prize for best silly parrying device. John of Bryn Gwlad won the most ribbons in the Rapier Ribbon Tourney, and Don Thorland O’Shea won the Armored Combat tourney. Honorable Lord Antonello del Bello won the Bransle-Off, and that was the second time he won, and he was the first repeat champion.
In February the shire hosted a Shadowlands War Authorization and Practice. People traveled from far and wide to get authorizations and instruction, and to practice their combat skills.
In March many from the Shire travelled to war. It was there that Álfrún Gunnvarardóttir received an Award of Arms, and it was much deserved and long awaited. Also at war did Kite the Damaged receive a Sable Falcon for her skills in combat, and Orin Ketilsson a Sable Talon, also for skill in chivalric combat. Lord Diederic Andrieszen won a period rapier competition in the Trimaran Tourney, and Luther of the Shadowlands finished second in another tourney. Lord Ronald fitz Robert won the Arc d’Or Archery tournament and competed in the Grand Exhibition Tournament. The Shadowlands, along with a few individuals from another kingdom, provided security for the Known World Party, and prevented riot, mayhem, and pillaging from breaking out.
In April many from the Shire attended Squires, Cadets, and Arcarius Invitational. It was there that Lady Kolfinna received a Sable Comet for her service to the Shire, and Lady Kite, Lord Aldred, Lord Vriedl, and Lord Tristram received AoAs. Lord Ronald was summoned to court to receive two awards, a Sable Comet for service to the Shire, and a Sable Talon for Archery, and Felix of the Shadowlands was summoned to receive an Award of Arms, but neither was able to attend the Crown at that time. And King Aaron was the third King to acknowledge the Shadowlands as Capital of Ansteorra. Mistress Kaitlyn excelled at the event, winning three of the four competitions she entered (archery, dance, and quest) and being named Arcarius Champion. Also that month did Lord Demere of the Oakenstaff teach a class in the making of glass beads. And the year A.S. XLVI drew to a close.
In May of the new year did Lady Kite step down as Seneschal, and then Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna was the Seneschal. In that same month did Lord Paedric retire as Shadowlands Chronicler, and then Ann of Wellborn was the Chronicler. Also in May did Lord Ronald fitz Robert receive a Sable Talon for Archery AND a Sable Comet for service to the Shire of the Shadowlands – Capital of Ansteorra, and Lord Felix of the Shadowlands received an Award of Arms, all of which would have been given in April of the previous year if Robert and Felix had attended Squires, Cadets and Arcarius. Finally, Lord Deiterich Andreiszen became the rapier champion of Dragon’s Fire Tor.
In September the Shadowlands celebrated its 35th anniversary with an event called Shadowlands Shenanigans. In that same month did the Shire once more hold an Open house demo, and that was finally back on the Drill Field. Also in September was there held a Newcomer’s Revel. A Newcomers Trip to Bryn Gwlad was scheduled, but mostly cancelled due to an outbreak of exams.
In December the Shire held a small demo for some history classes at A&M Consolidated High School.
In January of that same year did the Shadowlands host the Kingdom for the Ice and Fire Crown Tournament and Shadowlands Snow Ball. And that was the sixty-ninth Ansteorran Crown Tournament, and the third held in the Shadowlands. And Count Lochlan Dunn was victorious, and his consort was Gwen verch Cynwrig de Ynys Mon. And that same day did Kinna de Lacey receive an Award of Arms, and Orin Ketilsson a Sable Crane. and Organa of the Shadowlands did receive a Rising Star of Ansteorra, and she was the second person from the Shadowlands to receive a Rising Star, but the first in many, many years.
In March many from the Shadowlands traveled east to Gulf Wars XXII. A good time was had by all, or so I heard.
In April the Shadowlands put on a demo at the TAMU Vet School’s Open House, with help from the Ansteorran equestrian community. And the year drew to an end.
In the summer of that year a plague of injury and illness befell the Shadowlands, and many from the Shire went under the surgeon’s knife.
In August, the Shadowlands was diminished, as our hospitaler, Lady Kinna de Lacey, passed away
In September the Shadowlands once again held a demo on the drill field for TAMU Open House. Later that month was held a Newcomer’s Revel, but, alas, the Newcomer’s trip to Raven’s Fort was rained out. In that same month did Anna Melaine and Nina of the Lost Caverns become members of the Order of the Shire of the Shadowlands.
In November, many from the Shadowlands did attend Bring Out Your Dead 2.0 and Royal Huntsman in the Shire of Gate’s Edge. It was there that Honorable Lord Ronald fitz Robert won the Royal Huntsman Tourney and was accepted into the Order of the Arc d’Or. And he was the second from the Shadowlands to receive that honor, but the first in many years. At that same event did Don Connor MacGillivrey win the Rapier Championship, and Lord Paedric OMullan did win the Bardic Championship. In that same month, many from the Shire did attend Bordermarch Autumn Melees, also known as War of the Rams II. But no one from the Shire won anything, or even did much of anything, and it was very cold and wet. Also in that month was there held a lampwork glass bead making workshop And in that same month did the Shadowlands put on a demo for the Crestview Retirement Community.
In January of that same year, the Shadowlands hosted Runs With Scissors/Plays With Fire, with Eisteddfod. It was there that Honorable Lord Paedric OMullan became a Companion to the Order of the Star of Merit, Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna receive the Award of the King’s Archer, and HL Brian O’hUlliam of Loch Sollier joined the Order of the Iris of Merit. Master Alden Drake won the Eisteddfod and became Ansteorra’s Premiere Bard.
And that same day did many people join the Order of the Shire of the Shadowlands, sometimes called the Order of the Shadow, and they were Theophanes of the Shadowlands, Josef Gustavson, Sophie of the Shadowlands, Francois la Flamme, Perronnelle Charrette, Demere of the Oaken Staff, and Maggie Hallenburg.
Also that day were held several competitions. Lady Catan ingen Michil won the weaving race, Lady Catan and Mistress Kaitlyn won the Viking whipcord braiding race, and the Iron Chef siege cooking competition was won by the team called the Fire Dyers, which consisted of Willoc MacMuiredaig, Jannette Makepays, and Antonello del Bello. Antonello del Bello also won the Bransle-Off, and it was his third time to win that dance competition, equaling all others combined.
In that same month did Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna step down as Seneschal, and then Theophanes of the Shadowlands was the Seneschal.
In March some Shadowlanders made the journey to Gulf Wars. A few others had a “Couldn’t Go to Gulf Wars” Pity Party, and went to Sherwood Forest Faire instead.
In April, many from the Shadowlands travelled to Stargate/Loch Solleir Co-Baronials. It was there that Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna became the Archery Champion of Loch Solleir. And the year AS XLVIII came to an end.
In June of the new year, many from the Shadowlands went to King’s College, where HL Paedric taught a calligraphy class. Also in June did Mistress Kaitlyn win competitions at Grand Assembly of Archers and Lilies War.
In July were held archery and armoring workdays, at which shire loaner gear was refurbished, new arrows and bowstrings made, and personal projects were worked on. And in that same month did the brewing guild try once again to make beer. Third time’s a charm.
In September the Shadowlands once again held an Open House Demo on the drill field with help from near and far. In that same month the Shire took a Newcomers Trip to Defender of the Fort in Raven’s Fort, which was attended by ten newcomers. It was there that Lady Anna Maleine finally received her Award of Arms. Also in that month was held a Newcomers Revel, which was attended by many, many Shadowlanders, and others, both new and old. And it was there that Lady Dianna Blakeley received a Sable Crane for her service to the kingdom.
In October did the Shire put on a demo at the College Station Library, and it was very well received. In that same month was there held a lampwork glass bead making workshop. Many members from the Shire attended the Shire of Seawinds Thirtieth Anniversary event. Also in that month did Lord Steven Blakeley, called Staltus, become the Rapier Champion of the Shire of Gate’s Edge.
In November did Mistress Shanahan the Fey finally(!) receive an Award of Arms, at BAM. Also at BAM did Diderich von Schatten and Elsbeth of Bonwicke receive the Shaky Knees Award for their first melee kills. In that same month was the Shadowlands featured in The Battalion, the newspaper of Texas A&M.
In March, many from the Shadowlands journeyed far to the East to support our Kingdom at Gulf Wars 24. It was there that Theophanes of the Shadowlands, called Tiffany, received an Award of Arms. HL Magdelana von Hallenberg received a Sable Fleur for her artistic endeavors, and Valka Bloodyfoot received a barbeque skewer through her foot, a “plaque” from the Province of Mooneschadowe, and a flag from HL Maggie.
In April did Lady Diana Blakely receive a Sable Comet for her service to the Shire, and it was her second Comet from the Shadowlands, and she was the second Shadowlander to receive two Comets, and the other was Ulsted the Unsteady. In That same month did Diderich von Schatten, Valka Bloodyfoot, and Aaron of the Shadowlands become members of the Order of the Shire of the Shadowlands. So ended the old year.
As the new year dawned, a new order of peerage was created in the Known World, and two former Shadowlanders were among the first to receive the new honor, as Baron Caelan McRob of Loch Sollier and Don Niccolo (once known as Lord Fiacra, and later as lord Geoffrey) of the Kingdom of Northshield became Masters of Defense.
And it was at Coastal Grand Baronials in Raven’s Fort that Lady Dianna Blakeley and Lord Steven Blakeley received the Award of the Sable Crane, Mistress Isobail Inghean Gilla Chriosd received a Sable Sparrow, and Isobail, Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna, Sir Rhodri ap Gwythr, and HL Sarra Ashton of York all received Augmentations of Arms. Lady Elsbeth of Bonwicke received a Sable Fleur, and Lady Valka Bloodyfoot was called into court to receive an Award of Arms, but she was not in attendance, and received her AoA at fighter practice a day later.
Also that weekend did Mistress Kaitlyn step down as Loch Sollier Archery Champion, and step up as Stargate Archery Champion. On that same day did Don Steven Crowley become Grand Baronial Rapier Champioin. Michael der Kreiger and Kelsey of the Shadowlands were recognized for their inspiration of the Baroness of Raven’s Fort in the fields of Chivalric fighting and equestrian. Also that day did the Pale Dragons sweep the youth boffer competition.
In June did Lord Diderich von Schatten receive an Award of Arms, and since he had only been departed from the Shire for a month, he still counts.
In September was held our annual demo on the Drill Field for Open House at TAMU. It was there that Sir Randall der Kreiger, Michael der Kreiger, Kreiger, Borijigidun Monggulun called Mungi, Livia Collari, Miriel of the Shadowlands, and Guillaume of the Shadowlands all became members of the Order of the Shire of the Shadowlands (OSS). In that same month were held newcomer meetings, and a newcomer’s trip to Defender of the Fort in Raven’s Fort. At Raven’s Fort did newcomer Nate of the Shadowlands receive the Award of the Sable Shield. And that same day did Krag von Bergen, a former long-time member of the Shadowlands, become a Laurel. Also in that month was held a demo at Larry Ringer Library in College Station.
In October did Lady Morina O’Donovan win the Bransle-Off Dance competition, and HL Paedric OMullan the Bardic competition, both at Gate’s Edge 25th Anniversary.
In November of that same year did the Shadowlands host Shadow Wars, and that was the first of these. The war was against the Province of Mooneschadowe, to make them spell Moonshadow correctly, and the Shire of the Shadowlands was victorious. And it was there that Lady Livia Colari and Lady Miriel of the Shadowlands received their Awards of Arms and HL Paedric OMullan received a Sable Thistle for Illumination.
In December did Mistress Kaitlyn win the table decorating competition at Stargate Yule.
In January of that same year did Geirr of the Shadowlands,who was later called Akihiro, win a Youth Boffer Tournament at Crown Tournament, and that was the first tourney he entered. Also in January did Lord Theophanes of the Shadowlands, called Tiffany, step down as Seneschal, and also did Kyria Anna Maleine step down as Chronicler, and then was HL Isabelot di Firenze the Seneschal, and Lady Miriel of the Shadowlands the Chronicler.
In February many from the Shadowlands did attend War College in Raven’s fort. It was there that HL Mirabelis Genevah Zabeneh did win the Royal Lancer competition. And that same day did Lady Dianna Blakeley receive a Ravens Feather and a Sable Sparrow.
In March, many from the Shadowlands attended Gulf Wars, and that was the 25th of these. And on Thursday of the War, a great storm and wind came up, and many tents were damaged or destroyed, and the remainder of the War was blown away.
In April did HL Magdelena von Hallenberg receive a Sable Crane for her service to the Kingdom, and that was at Bards and Cooks College. Noah of the Shadowlands won his age bracket in youth combat at Elfsea Defender. And on April 30, the Shadowlands held a New Year’s Eve Revel, as was often done in our ancient history. And the old year drew to a close.
In May of the new year it was a very good month for the Shire of the Shadowlands. It was at Stargate/Loch Sollier Co-Baronials that Baron Gavin became the Loch Sollier chivalric champion, and his lady wife HL Mirabelis became the Loch equestrian champion. On that same day did Lady Miriel of the Shadowlands win the Stargate equestrian title. Jeremiah of the Pale Dragons (eldest), Noah Hooper of the Pale Dragons (middle), and Josh of the Pale Dragons (youngest), did sweep the three age groups to become youth boffer champions. In court that night did HL Maggie von Hallenberg receive a Sable Crane. And that same day was Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna accepted into the Order of the Arc d’Or. It was at Queen’s Champion that Lady Elsie Hooper and Lord Gaius Artorius Germanus received their AoAs. At Steppes Warlord did Mary Margaret of the Pale Dragons (eldest), Leo of the Pale Dragons (middle), and Jason of the Pale Dragons (youngest) sweep the youth boffer tournament. And that day was Mary-Margaret named Steppes Youth Warlord.
In July did Stephen Blakeley receive a White Scarf, and the title Don Stephen, and he was the fifth to become a Don in the Shadowlands. And that same day did Don Connor MacGillivray win a rapier competition, and Lady Elsie Hooper did gain recognition as best new rapier fighter.
In September did the Shadowlands once again hold an Open House demo on the drill field, and many people came from far and wide to help. And in that same month did the Pale Dragons and others travel to Raven’s Fort, and once again the Pale Dragons swept the youth fighting. And that same day did Jeremiah of the Pale Dragons receive a Sable Sparrow for his service in a medical emergency. Also in that month did many from the Shadowlands, including newcomers, travel to Loch Sollier Argent Anniversary and Baronial Investiture. And that day was historic as two former Shadowlanders passed the coronets of Loch Soillier to two other former Shadowlanders. And it was there that HL Maggie did receive a much deserved Sable Comet for her service to the Shadowlands and her Sable Comet medallion was a pass down from Baron Krag von Bergen, who had received it many years before from Mistress Aethylian Moondragon. And that same day did Guillaume of the Shadowlands receive an Award of Arms, and HL Mirabelis did receive a Golden Bridle. Also, that day did Mary Margaret of the Pale Dragons win the title of youth boffer champion of the Loch.
In October did Angie of the Shadowlands win her age bracket in a youth bardic competition in Gate’s Edge. Also in October did Jeremiah of the Pale Dragons win the Tournament of the King’s Hope at Coronation.
In January of that same year, the Shadowlands did host Crown Tournament in the reign of King Jason and Queen Margharita. And Count Gabriel proved victorious in honorable combat, to make Sonja Princess once again. And on that day did Don Stephen Blakeley receive a Sable Comet for his service to the Shadowlands. Also, that day did Asta of the Shadowlands receive an Award of Arms. There was also a youth tourney held that day, and the winners were Jason of the Pale Dragons, Jakob of the Pale Dragons, and Evarr Havaarsson of Hellsgate.
In March many from the Shadowlands went to War. It was there that Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna won the mounted archery competition. And that same week did Akihiro and Jeremiah of the Pale Dragons both receive Sable Falcons, and it was said that, at 16, they were the youngest ever to receive them.
In April did Jakob of the Pale Dragons become the Defender of the King’s Dream, and that was at Coronation. Also in April did many Shadowlanders travel to Coastal Grand Baronials. And it was there that Thorbjorn Orthlokarr received an Award of Arms. And that same day did Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna become the equestrian champion of Stargate, and Edric Haldyn won an unbelted tourney. And the old year drew to a close.
In May of the new year did Lady Miriel win the A&S competition at Squires, Cadets, and Arcarius, and Lucius Hooper received a Rising Star at Queen’s Champion. And that same month, at Steppes Warlord, did Jakob of the Pale Dragons win the youth Warlord tourney, and Akihiro of the Pale Dragons did win the youth rapier Roses’ tourney. And that same weekend did Mary Margaret of the Pale Dragons receive a Sable Falcon, and HL Eric Morrison became a Centurion of the Sable Star, and it is believed that he was the first in the Shadowlands to be so honored.
In September, the Shadowlands did once again hold an Open House demo on the drill field. And also that month was there a demo at the College Station Library. It was at Laurel’s Prize Tournament that Lord Gaius Artorius Germanis did receive an Award of the Compass Rose for his service to the children of the Kingdom. Many from the Shadowlands, including several newcomers, did travel to Ravensfort for Defender of the Fort, and it was there that Jakob Bechstein won the youth Skald and youth Artisan competitions, and Akihiro of the Shadowlands did win the youth Cavalier of the Fort, and Angie of Wellborn did win the children’s plastic foil competition. And also in September, at Bryn Gwlad’s fall event, did Akihiro of the Shadowlands receive a Rising Star of Ansteorra.
In October did the Shadowlands hold a Newcomers Revel with several newcomers in attendance, and lots of tasty food. And it was there that Lord Gaius Artorius Germanus, Lady Elsie Hooper, Lord Nicholas Wolf, Lady Asta Valdadottir, Lord Thorbjorn Orthlokarr, Eys von Lubeck, Lucius Hooper, Akihiro of the Shadowlands, and Jakob Bechstein did become members of the Order of the Shire of the Shadowlands. And in that same month did Mistress Beatrix Alfraye travel far to the south from far northern Ansteorra to teach a lampwork workshop. Also in that month did several members of the Shire travel to the Gulf Wars site to maintain the camping land we share.
In November did Lady Tanne Haldyn and Lord Edric Haldyn receive their Awards of Arms, and that was at Serpent’s Symposium. And that same day did Lord Gaius Artorius Germanus become the Artisan of the Loch. And in that month did HL Dianna Blakeley became a member of the Order of the Star of Merit of Ansteorra, and that happened at BAM. Also in November did Baroness Grimhildr Læknir receive the Coronet’s Favor, although she was not there to receive it, and that was given in the Principality of the Mists, in the Kingdom of the West.
In December did Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna win the table decorating contest at Stargate Yule.
In March, many from the Shadowlands, both old and new, attended Gulf Wars XXVII. And the year AS LII drew to a close.
In June did Baron Gavin Mac Iain receive the Western Cross from the Barony of Bonwicke. Also in that month did Lady Miriel teach a class in backstrap weaving at Kingdom Fiber Arts Symposium. And that same day did the Shire host the few fighters that attended the Coastal Regional melee practice.
In August did HL Isabelot travel far to the Kingdom of Æthelmarc to attend the Pennsic War, and she was the first Shadowlander to attend Pennsic War in many years.
In September did the Shadowlands hold another Open House demo, and this was the 21st of these. And later that month were scheduled newcomer trips to Ravens Fort’s Defender of the Fort, and Three Centurions II, but these were both rained out. Also that month was held the Laurels Prize Tourney, and it was there that Lady Miriel Atte Linde received a Sable Thistle of Ansteorra, for her skill and talent in fiber arts.
In November of that year did the Shadowlands host A Passion for Peerless Pursuits. And it was there that Eys von Lübeck received an Award of Arms. And that same day did Josef Gustavson, Morina O’Donovan, and Elsie Hooper receive Sable Comets of Ansteorra for their service to the Shadowlands. Also in that royal court were given, unto John Buchanan, a Sable Talon for Target Archery, unto Caterina Giovanni, a Sable Talon for Siege, and unto Solmundr Mac an Ghabhann, named (by the king) Crotch Killer, an Award of the Royal Archer. Also that day did Nikolai Vladislov became the Royal Huntsman. And that same day were held many and varied competitions. There was the Crossbow Only Shoot, won by Karl Thorgeirson; the Mongol Shoot, won by Gordon Redwolfe; the Period Shoot, won by John Buchanon; the All Archery Distance Volley won by Nicolai Vladislov; and the Pumpkins, Ghosts, and Spiders Shoot won by Clery of Shadowlands. Furthermore, there was an Ax Tourney, won by Aki Seulf, and a Thrown Weapons Tourney, won by Ethan Duke. Also that month did Diana Blakeley receive an Award of the Compass Rose of Ansteorra, in recognition of her service to the young people of Ansteorra, and that was done at Queen’s Champion.
In February of that same year was HL Dianna Blakeley inducted into the Order of the Raven’s Wing of Raven’s Fort. And that same day did HL Paedric OMullan win the title of Raven’s Skald of Raven’s Fort.
In March many from the Shadowlands did attend Gulf Wars XXVIII, and it was there that Baron Gavin Mac Iain won the Meridian Rose Tourney, being voted most chivalrous, and was knighted that same night. And in that same month did the Shadowlands go to war with the Stronghold of Hellsgate. Although the war ended in a tie (all the good ones do) the Shadowlands outshone all others in the concurrent Commander’s Crucible competitions. Baroness Grimhildr Læknir won the title of Bardic Commander. Lord Mikael der Kreiger won the title of Chivalric Defender, and received an Award of Arms. And that same day did George Payne and Vanessa Haldan receive Rising Stars of Ansteorra.
In April did Don Stephen Blakely win the Rapier Championship of Loch Soillier, and Lord Josep Gaustsson did win the Archery Championship of Loch Soillier, and those were at Stargate/Loch Soillier Co-Baronials. And that same month did several from the Shadowlands participate in the SCA demo at Sherwood Forest Faire, and this was the first year of SCA participation at Sherwood. Also in April was there a lampworking workshop, led by lord Josef. And the old year drew to a close.
In May of the new year was there held a lampworking workshop, led by Lord Josef.
In June of that same year the Known World Dance and Music Symposium was held in the Shadowlands, although it was organized and sponsored by the Barony of Bryn Gwlad. It was there that Mistress Kaitlyn was recognized by the Queen for her decorating skills.
In July did Baroness Grimhildr Laeknir step down as Seneschal and abruptly depart these lands, and Then HL Isabelot was briefly seneschal again, before giving way to Nesta of the Shadowlands. In August of that year was there held a Tourney Demo on the Drill Field as part of Howdy Week, and this was the first of these, but probably not the last.
In September was there held an Open House Demo, and that was the twenty-second of these. And it was followed soon after by a Newcomers Revel, which was well attended.And that same month was there held a demo at Ringer Library in College Station, and this was the sixth of these.
In October, many from the Shadowlands attended Lochtoberfest/Serpent’s Symposium, including several newcomers. It was there that two newcomers, Myranthia and Marco of the Shadowlands, received swords from Baron Krag for no particular reason but they caught his attention. And that same day did Elyas Swyft also receive a sword, and his was for surviving some intensive training from several knights.
In November did the Shadowlands host the Queen’s Champion Tourney for Queen Cristyana Lambrecht. And Cristyana and Sven III were the 82nd pair to wear the stellar crowns. It was there that HL Orazio d’Assissi (formerly of the Shadowlands) did win the title of Queen’s Champion, defeating Don Stephen Crowley (also formerly of the Shadowlands) in the final round.
And that same day did many Shadowlanders receive awards. Miriel atte Linde received a Sable Comet for her service to the Shadowlands. Josep Gautsson received a Sable Thistle for blacksmithing, and Morina O’Donovan received a Sable Thistle for cooking. Iðunn Arnarsdottir, Pembroke of the Shadowlands, Elyas Swyft, Clara Tarabotti, Edith Everly, Gerold Yeoman, Throstr Ulfrikrsson, Deanna of the Shadowlands (now called Sybil), and Nesta of the Shadowlands all received Awards of Arms, although some didn’t actually get them for days or weeks. Duke Ulsted the Unsteady (another former Shadowlander) received a Queen’s Rapier, and Evan Kragssen (son of former Shadowlanders) won the title of senior Guardian of the Queen’s Hope. Aurora of Ansteorra (who has no connection to the Shadowlands) won the junior Guardian of the Queen’s Hope. And in that same month did Marco of the Shadowlands win the premiere Thrown Weapons Championship of Bordermarch at War of the Rams, sometimes called BAM.
In January of that same year did Marco of the Shadowlands win another thrown weapons competition, at Crown Tourney. Also that month did the Shadowlands hold a table demo in Rudder Plaza
In March of that year the Shadowlands did host a weekend at Sherwood Forest Faire, And this was the second year of SCA involvement at Sherwood, but the first year the Shadowlands hosted a weekend, and that was on the first weekend of Gulf War, because War didn’t match Spring Break and most of Shadowlands couldn’t go. And it was very warm and humid on Saturday, but cooler on Sunday.
And that month was Gulf War XXIX cancelled, because of the Coronavirus plague which swept across the land. And then all SCA activities nationwide were cancelled due to the plague.
The plague has brought the Knowne Worlde to a standstill. I have sworn an oath of solitude until this pestilence be purged from the land. I shall remain at my post, and continue this record until I succumb, or this plague shall pass me by. Is the end of the world come? Time will tell.
While the people endured, they learned, and they taught, and they made, and much of this was done in the virtual world. As the year dragged to an end, a single royal court was held virtually, on the last Saturday of April. The Shadowlands received nothing. And the year finally dragged to its miserable end, but the pestilence did not.
In May, though the plague continued, life went on as well. On the second day of the new year, another virtual royal court was held, and it was there that Viðarr Ulfriksson and Ingríðr Úlfsdóttir received Awards of Arms. And that same day did Rhiannon verch Bryan, a former Shadowlander, get elevated to the Order of the Pelican, And Orazio d’Assisi, also a former Shadowlander, did receive a White Scarf. And a week later was held the virtual stepdown court of their Majesties, Sven III and Christyana, and many awards, gifts, and accolades were given. It was there that the Royal Seamstress, Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna, received the Award of the Queen’s Glove for her outstanding service. HL Isabelot di Firenze, HL Elspet Arbuthnoth, Lady Morina O’Donovan, and Lady Miriel atte Linde were honored with Gold Stars, also for their service to the Crown. Among former Shadowlanders, Don Steven Crowley became a master of Defense, Evan Kragsson received a Rising Star, and Don Orazio d’Assisi was given a Queen’s Glove. Many former Shadowlanders did receive Gold Stars, too many to list here. Then King Jason III and Queen Marguerite III put on the Stellar Crowns, and they became the 83rd King and Queen of Ansteorra.
In July the Seneschal did hold court during the Shire populace meeting. Many people were inducted into the Order of the Shadow, and they were: Austin of the Shadowlands, Boleslaw Adventowicz, Clara Tarabotti, Edith Everly, Eithne inghen Diarmait, Elyas Swyft, Gaudifer Wardwyn, Gerold Yeoman, Grimhildr Læknir, Iðunn Arnorsdottir, Marco of the Shadowlands, Myranthia of the Shadowlands, Pembrooke Craven, Seighart Müller, Stephen of the Shadowlands, Sybil of the Shadowlands, and Throstr Ulfriksson.
And in that same month was it decreed by the BOD that there should be no in person events before Candlemas. The pestilence continues.
In September of the plague year, Lady Clara Tarabotti and Eithne inghen Diarmata did meet with Lady Morina, who organized an active games guild, and Clara and Eithne did contest a game of Bocce, which was won by Clara. And this was the first official face-to-face gathering in the Shire since the plague came.
In October did the active games guild complete its bocce tournament, and it was won by HL Paedric, who overcame Lady Iðunn Arnarsdottir in the final match to win 2 games to 1. In that same month did the archers resume in person practices, as plague concerns eased slightly. Also in that month did The Shadow Knows, Newsletter of the Shire of the Shadowlands, and former Chronicler Lady Miriel atte Linde, receive a Blackfox Award, and that is a Knowne Worlde award for excellence in newsletter chronicling.
In November did Lord Tuathal O’Shiels travel to the Shadowlands to teach a dance class. Also in that month came a new wave of the plague, and archery practice ceased once more. But fiber guild continued on Discord.
In December of that year, the BOD extended the ban on in person events until at least May 31, AS LVI (2021). An increase in the spread of plague caused the continued cancellation of all guild activities except fiber on Discord.
The months wore on. Populace meetings continued monthly on Zoom. Fiber night/hangout continued more or less weekly on Discord. Archery and thrown weapons happened when they could.
In March were held socially distant table demos near Rudder Fountain. And many people were interested in the SCA.
In April of that same year did Lady Nesta of Shadowlands receive a Sable Comet of Ansteorra, in recognition of her service to the Shire. And the year of the plague drew to an end, but the plague continued.
In May of the new year did Lady Nesta of the Shadowlands step down as seneschal, And then was Lady Morina O’Donovan the seneschal. Also in that month did the BOD announce further lifting of restrictions, to begin July. Also in that month did Lord Elyas Swyft step down as Knight Marshal, And then was Throstr Ulreksson Knight Marshal.
In June did the Shadowlands hold chivalric fighter practice, for the first time in fifteen months or more.
In the same month did Lady Morina step down as seneschal, due to unforeseen circumstances. And then Lady Nesta was once again the seneschal.
In July did Lord Elyas Swyft enter the Crown Tournament, with Mistress Kaitlyn McKenna as his consort. And that was his first Crown Tournament. He did not win.
In August, the pestilence was once more loose upon the land, with a new and virulent strain. And new restrictions were imposed on meetings and activities. And in that same month did the Shire put on a Howdy Week demo on the drill field, and this was the second of these, but the first in two years.
In September did the Shadowlands put on another Demo on the drill field, and that was the 23rd, after a one year hiatus for the plague. In that same month did Glenr of the Shadowlands win the armored combat tournament and the title Defender of the Fort in Raven’s Fort. Also in that month did I suffer the ravages of the pestilence, yet I did not succumb.
In November did the Shadowlands co-host an event with the Barony of Bryn Gwlad, and it was called Asgardian Field Day. There was no real winners and losers, except in the Thor Beauty Pageant, which was won by former Shadowlander Orazio d’Assisi. Sieghart Müller took the Loki prize. Many who had received OSs virtually many months ago received their scrolls and insignia. Lady Nesta received and OS that was approved by Lady Morina during her brief tenure as seneschal. Also that day did Alexandra of the Shadowlands receive an Order of the Shadow. A good time was had by all.
In December, At Stargate/Loch Sollier Yule, did Herr Sieghart Müller receive and Award of Arms. And that same day did Herr Sieghart win the Toys for Tots Chivalric Tourney. Also that day did Lady Morina O’Donovan win an A&S competition and the title of Artisan of Stargate. And that same dat was Iðunn Arnarsdottir honored with a Sable Comet of Ansteorra for her service to the Shire, although few knew it at the time. Later that month did several Shadowlanders participate in the SCA demo at the Texas Viking Festival. Also that month did Lady Morina O’Donovan step down as Herald, and then was Lord Throstr Ulfreksson Herald, and Gerold Screivogel became Rapier Marshal.
In January of that same year did the kingdom order a pause in in-person activities due to a surge in the plague.
In February did the Crown and senescal reopen kingdom activities. It was then, at a Shire court, that Lady Iðunn Arnarsdottir received a Sable Comet of Ansteorra, and this award had been given at Stargate Yule, which Iðunn did not attend, and SCA activity had ceased thereafter.
In March, a very small contingent of Shadowlanders did travel to the east to attend Gulf Wars XXX, and there were only nine of us, four armored warriors, a combat archer, and four in support. And it was there that Lord Seighart Müller and Lord Elyas Swyft receive Sable Falcons, Lord Seighart on the field after the field battle, and Lord Elyas in Royal Court before the assembled populace of the Kingdom.
In April did Lord Seighart Müller win the Squires portion at Squires, Cadets, and Arcarius, and that is because he understood the assignment. Also in April did the Shire hold a New Year’s Eve revel, as was done in ancient times. It was there that Lord Bolesław Adwentowicz received an Award of Arms, which had been read out at Squires. Also that day did Eithne ingen Diarmata and Gerold Screivogal, formerly, Gerold Yeoman, receive their Order of the Shadow scrolls from July AS LV. And that same day did Faith of the Shadowlands become a member of the Order of the Shadow. And the second year of the plague drew to a close. And Also in April did Lady Iðunn Arnarsdottir step down as Hospitaller, And then was Lady Merewen Wyllt, formerly Faith of Shadowlands, Hospitaller.
The Officers of the Shire of the Shadowlands
Along with their Dates of Service (Where Known)
Current to July AS LVIII