December 2023 Crown Tournament

As we move through the dark winter with the light of day falling but briefly on our endeavors, the Archduchy of Esperance gathered for our December Crown Tournament.

The day opened with a rousing archery tournament challenging the archers to strike true through the body of three small hanging wreaths. After three rounds of shooting we had a matched score in the lead between Mew and Sofanisba with only a single point difference putting them in the lead.

In a head to head battle Mew eeked out a win and strode from the field victorious.

Special mention must be made for one of Lunzie's rounds where she shot what may be the best grouping ever witnessed by the aged Archduke. As memorialized here, she had three arrows touching each other on the target with a fourth barely an inch away.

Our rapier combatants were directed by our most devious minister of joust and war to engage in a round robin tournament with ten rounds fought for each pairing and, more is the pity, doubles being re-fought. This led to a massive number of passes which was exhausting but very much exhilarating.

After combat we divested ourselves of armor and weapons to join together for an excellent feast. In addition to several delicious dishes of more modern provenance, we had several period contributions including a rather tasty turnip dish, a good egg tart, a pork roast in period style, and an interesting cabbage dish which was... unique... but also utilized mustard from a prior arts project giving it an extra touch of period pizzazz.

Included in our feast was a rum toast for those who have recently left us, and those who we continue to remember.