Words from Their Excellencies David and Arabella

Greetings unto the fine Barony of Ynys Fawr,
Since last we spoke much has occurred, from Crown and the many Wayfarers gracing our shores and the
highly anticipated Royal Event “Raphia to Pavia”.
Last month we were graced by the presence of their Royal Majesties, Basileus Ariston and König Jochen,
for an occasion of much pleasure and merriment. Beneath the glistening sun, we bore witness to the valour
and strength of this barony as combatants took to the list field in both rapier and heavy. The list was mighty,
with combatants from both near and far, including Stormhold, Rowany, Politarchopolis and locals of Ynys
Fawr. The populace took much delight in watching all take to the field and it was no surprise when his
Majesty Ariston was victorious upon both fields.
During our court, we were delighted to welcome the many Wayfarers which of course include Their
Majesty’s and gifted them all with a silver scallop shell, a token to remember their journey to Ynys Fawr
and the good times that were shared by all.
We were graced with a number of Newcomers to this event and as is tradition we gifted one of our original
silver Investiture Tokens so that they too may remember their first event of hopefully many.
During Their Majesty’s court on Saturday the following good gentles were recognised.
Lord Janos Fulop received their AoA for their Service and passion for A&S Arts.
Lord Peran of Lyskyret received his AOA scroll, his promissory was awarded in 2012, but due to varying
circumstances the actual scroll was delayed.
t-Ollamh Declan O’Drogheda received a Prometheus for their dedicated teaching of the Rapier arts.
As the day drew nigh, we retired to our feasting hall where we were treated to a feast fit for Kings, prepared
by Count Sir Oze and his household Caledon. In total there were three removes, each more flavoursome than
the next, drawing inspiration from early Greece and Landsknecht, Their Majesty’s personas.
We all took delight in the many bardic endeavours throughout the evening. From a choir of voices lead by
Lady Catherine , a story of woe composed by his Excellency Rolf, an Italian piece from an t-Ollamh Declan,
a heartwarming tune from Baron Tiberius “Fruitbat”, peaceful instrumental serenades from Lady Catherine
and Lord Cynewulf, and an original composition from her Excellency, Arabella.
During the evenings court Their Majesties recognised many a good gentle for their good works.
Lady Broomhilde of Ynys Far received their AoA for their Service to the Barony
Jacob of Ynys Fawr was welcomed into the Mouse Guard
Lady Eawyn Bridie was awarded the Silver Rondel

Lord Richard of Dunheved received a Star & Lilly for his Scribal Arts.
Baroness Anna Felice Tavestoche received the Silver Pegasus for her continued and outstanding service over
many years.
Sir Wulfgar jarnsiða was recognised with the Rapier award
Lady Sybil de Speresholt received a Star & Lilly for her Excellence in Garb Marking, Cooking and Sugar
Work.
Baron Anslem de Calabria was awarded a Court Barony for his long service in the field of archery.
During our court Her Excellency, Arabella shared with the populace the lengthy request imposed on her by
our Stormhold cousin, Baron Leif. A request for nine attendants during the feast no less, such is the
hospitality of Her Excellency he was granted this boon and was presented with travel sized companions to
take with him during his travels.
We recognised Lady Elizabeth Saunders for all their work that they do as our Chatelaine and Social Media
Officer, including her ongoing service in the North with a Gules Anchor.
We also took great delight in acknowledging the service of those who stand as our Baronial Officers, for
without their service we would not have a Barony.
The following thank you scrolls were handed out to the following good gentles, Lady Alessandra, Baron
Anselm, Lady Catherine and Lady Aeaf.
We also recognised Lady Aeaf ongoing commitment to holding and managing multiply Officer position well
with a Gules Anchor.
Lastly we awarded the Sail of Ynys Fawr to Count Sir Oze’s household “House Caledon” Recognising the
good works of many under one household, works that we have personally witnessed over many years, your
tireless brings joy to many and we feel that this award is well deserving and long overdue.
In only what could be described as a labour of love, her Excellency was left at a loss for words when Sir Oze
presented he with a giant Turtle made from chocolate, cake and so many other sweet favourites. Alongside
this treasure trove of delights, she was gifted a beautiful seax, at which point she was instructed to strike
upon the shell, something of which Arabella took much delight in.
On Sunday, we returned to the field of daisies, where the list field had been replaced with an archery range
laden with painted snails, rabbits and a painted human target that was suspiciously as tall as his Excellency
David and adorned with bells. The sun beamed down as König Jochen led the mornings Archery shoot,
setting a new challenge for every round. Once the challenges were complete, his Majesty took to the field to
provide all who wished with a live target; many rejoicings as their arrow struck true.
Upon closing Court, Milord Boston was admitted into the Order of the Mouse Guard for their enthusiasm
and determination upon the archery field.
An event such as this is no easy feat. I know that there were several who have spent countless hours
planning and preparing for this event under there leadership of Sir Oze, and the Deputy Steward, Baroness
Anna, We commend all who helped, whether it be in the kitchen, setting up the hall, attending the Crown or
packing down the list fields. Your efforts do not go unnoticed, and we commend your efforts.
More recently there was our SCA Demo at the Medieval Festival at the Sheffield Steam & Heritage Centre,
where we were able to display a variety of our passions from Rapier, Armoured Combat and other artistic
pursuits. We would like to thank Lady Elizabeth and her cohort of volunteers who came out on either one or
both days to help setup, demonstrate to the many visitors that came through over the weekend and then pack
up. It is our hope that your efforts have enthused newcomers to join our wonderful group.
As many will know, we took up our Coronets long ago in March of 2020. It has been 5 1⁄2 years since, and
over this time we have navigated through the trying times of plague and then rejoiced when we could again
meet in person. Through our time, We have witnessed great joy, celebrated 20 years a kingdom, then 30 years a Barony, the Barony that is dear to our hearts and the one we all call home. From welcoming
newcomers into our folds to celebrating all the hard work that our populace gives to this fine Barony.
They say that the weight of the crown is heavy, but such a burden is lightened by the people we serve. The
infectious enthusiasm of Ynys Fawr is strong and our renown for welcoming all to our shores should be
commended. We take much delight in being the Crowns representatives, but we feel that whilst the Barony
is thriving, it is time for us to pass on the coronets that we hold with pride. We ask you to look amongst the
populace and seek out those who inspire you and to talk to your friends and peers. We urge all to and
encourage them to consider the opportunity to take part in growing this community that we love and step
forth as candidates for the next Baron and Baroness of Ynys Fawr.
These decisions are not light, and as always, our door is open to all. We are more than willing to share with
you the success and trials of our tenure, as I am sure many of our predecessors would be also.
For now, we cast our eyes towards a bright future in eager anticipation. We look forward to welcoming the
heirs of Lochac, Prince Þorvaldr inn Suðreyski and Princess Amabilia Thexton upon their coronation this
coming weekend and to our next joyous event.
Yours in service,
David and Arabella

(October 2025)