Quite a few folk from am Mor Salann Fasach journeyed to participate in the war between Atenveldt and the Kingdom of the West, held from 18-20 February A.S. XII (1978) at Burro Creek campground in Arizona.

This article appeared in the March A.S. XII issue of The Questing Quill.

Three fire chariots did travel from the Shire of Am Mor Salann Fasach to defend the lands of Atenveldt against the invasion of the Kingdom of the West. An advance guard did leave on Thursday with the laudable aim of setting up camp for all of the Shire representatives. This group, travelling in Gallowglass’ fire chariot, did find themselves slowed by the many blows of most unkind Fate and did arrive but little before the rest of us.At any rate, all from the Shire did gather together in the Western portion of Principality of the Sun only a short while before our gallant fighters were called to arms.

The first day was spent in a number of Grand Melees with the forces on either side being a mixture of Aten fighters and those from The West. The ladies (non-fighting, that is) watched from the side and cheered the combatants on.

The second day was WAR. Our fighters went into the field in support of HH Heinrich der Jäger and HM Koris Natterhelm to defend the Kingdom of Atenveldt. Several skirmishes were fought with the final victory going to The West. The fighting gave our fighters the opportunity to combat many worthy opponents and to gain first hand experience in dealing with a Shield Wall. (The shield wall walked over you where, milord?) Many interesting challenge matches were fought in the late afternoon with several of our fighters participating.

The evenings were supposedly turned over to “creative lechery”. The only lechery in evidence seemed to be centered within the camp of our own shire. But there were other interesting activities. Those who found no merit in the Tavern, did find much entertainment in sitting around a campfire and trading songs, ballads and stories. (Tis difficult to credit the sordid details delightedly described in the “clean” versions of some SCA songs, as some members of the shire can attest.)

The company was delightful and the chance to meet other SCA-ers from all over was wonderful. Members of the shire were identified with a black and white ribbon badge that was admired many times in the course of the weekend.

Monday morning found our travellers preparing for the long trek home. The fire chariots belonging to Gallowglass and Katrina of Castlewood did travel together while the chariot from Hold Tyte travelled ahead. Contact between fire chariots both coming and going was maintained by means of a Magical Speaking Box which allowed some conversation to pass. (“That’s a big 10-4 on your rate of march, milord.”)

In spite of some Miserable Moments of difficulty on the trip back, a good time was had by all and many new friends made for the Shire.

Submitted by Ferelith MacDonald