Another Tourney of the Foxes has come and gone. For those not familiar with it, Foxes is an SCA event that takes place in the Shire of Vulpine Reach every year about this time. The highlight, for us rapier fighters, is a three-man team melee tournament. I'm happy to say that the team consisting of myself, Ysabel and our friend Feodor has won this every year for the past 6 or so. We were a bit nervous going into it this time and it was hard fought all around, but we managed to pull off yet another win. When we were called up in Court to receive our prizes, His Majesty issued a challenge to all rapier fighters to break our winning streak next year. Nothing like a royal bullseye painted on you to motivate you to practice harder.
Winning was nice, but there were some bad moments. Our first bout ended in a double kill between the last two persons left alive (myself and Dragonet), so we had to refight it. After that, we seemed to get our focus back, though. The next few fights went all right and we managed to beat the team that I considered the worst threat (Jack Marvell, Tristram and Reynard of Thor's Mtn.). The final bout, however, was ugly. We were up against Cillian and two members of his Red Sword Company. Cillian is a good fight and he has a lot of reach, which can cause problems for his opponents. The other two fighters were also good enough to be a problem, if we didn't handle them right. My plan was to split Cillian off and go defensive until Feodor and Ysabel could dispose of the other two, then swarm him once he was alone. I was taking a bit of a risk, because if my two ended up being the one's killed, I would be the one swarmed. Still, I have a lot of confidence in my teammates, so it was a calculated risk. The plan worked beautifully, except for one thing. After a couple of exchanges with Cillian, he managed to place his blade on top of my mask and apply pressure with the tip. Now, here's where it gets ugly. It felt to me like he was pressing down with the flat of his blade, which isn't a valid kill. Due to the fact that his point was pushing directly on the cloth of my drape and angled in toward my head, he thought it was a good shot and I should be dead. Having had time to run it over in my mind, I tend to agree with him, but at the time, I said "not good" after I'd backed out of it. By this time, my two companions had finished their business and came charging over. Now it gets even more ugly. Since I felt a bit bad about the disagreement over the shot, I backed way off, more or less taking myself out of the fight. Cillian ran around and engaged Ysabel, who seemed fine with taking him on alone (Feodor had backed off, too, waiting to see if she needed help), but a few seconds after they started trading blows, Cillian let out a yell and dropped his blades. He conceded the fight because he threw his shoulder out with a hard overhand shot. While that allowed us victory in the tourney, winning in that fashion left a very bad taste in our mouths. At this point, what is done is done and all I can do is offer an apology to Cillian for the bad blow calling. I hope the way things turned out won't keep Red Sword Company from coming back and challenging us again next year. After all, we wouldn't want to disappoint His Majesty, now would we? :)
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
The Consumption Conundrum
I've been thinking a lot lately about my eating habits. I know they aren't particularly healthy, but like any ingrained behavior pattern, it's proving very difficult to change them. Let me share a rare glimpse of my past with you. I have, in my younger days, gone hungry. By younger days, I mean late teens, early twenties. Those were lean years and even into my mid-twenties, food wasn't plentiful. I did manage to eat at least once a day, after a certain point, but prior to that it wasn't uncommon to go a couple days between meals. No, I wasn't homeless, except for a month or so living in my car, but it wasn't a pleasant way to live, regardless. Needless to say, I've managed to do much better in later years and food has become a bit too available. When you are in a situation like I was back in those days, you end up living under certain rules where food is concerned. Rule #1 is "never pass up an opportunity to eat". Rule #2 is "when food is put in front of you, you eat it regardless of whether or not you like it". Rule #3, which is the most problematic right now, is "eat as much as you can in one sitting because you don't know when the next sitting will be". It's that last one, combined with the fact that I really do *like* to eat, that causes most of the problem. I'm not exactly overweight, but the weight I do have isn't distributed very well. I do work a sit down job, yes, but I also get a fair amount of exercise. Apparently, it's not enough, given my diet. I can't seem to avoid eating large amounts of junk, mostly because that's what is readily available and convenient. If I could reduce the portions of said junk, it might help, but my brain has been trained by bitter experience to "eat it all, eat it now and eat again as soon as possible". Good habits... if there is a wide-spread famine. Not so good in modern America's culture of culinary excess.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Monday, August 4, 2008
Why So Serious?
Well, I finally got to see the "The Dark Knight" and let me just say that it was freakin' amazing! I had a few nitpicky type complaints here and there, but overall it was one of the best movies I've seen in a very long time. Typically, I'm not one to gush about any particular actor, but Heath Ledger was simply the best Joker EVAR!!! I especially appreciated the "pencil trick". It completely captured the essence of the character (namely that he's utterly, irredeemably twisted and evil). There are many more moments throughout the movie that demonstrate the core identities of the main characters. Batman is thoroughly conflicted between his role as savior and the sometimes unsavory things he is forced to do to defeat his foes. Harvey Dent aka Two-Face is.... pretty much spot on. I've never been that big a fan of Two-Face as a villain. He always seemed a little shallow and contrived to me. The whole split personality angle has been done and redone in story after story and there's really not much more to explore there, I think. However, that said, the movie makers managed to give ol' Harvey some genuine depth and a very good rationale for his tragic fall into madness. The special effects for the mangled half of his face were top-notch as well. Truly disturbing to look at, just as it should be.
But, I have to come back to Heath Ledger as the stand out here. There's no way I can describe the stunning quality of his performance. You just need to go see it for yourself. Despite the ridiculous cost of going to movies these days, this one is well worth it. It's truly a shame that Mr. Ledger has passed on. After putting in the performance of a lifetime, to have him die so unexpectedly is like a sick joke on par with something the Joker himself might have cooked up. (cue the maniacal laughter and fade to black....)
But, I have to come back to Heath Ledger as the stand out here. There's no way I can describe the stunning quality of his performance. You just need to go see it for yourself. Despite the ridiculous cost of going to movies these days, this one is well worth it. It's truly a shame that Mr. Ledger has passed on. After putting in the performance of a lifetime, to have him die so unexpectedly is like a sick joke on par with something the Joker himself might have cooked up. (cue the maniacal laughter and fade to black....)
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
The Theory of Universal Malice
It is my firm belief that the Universe hates me. Pessimistic of me perhaps, but there is ample proof. Oh, certainly it slips up occasionally and lets me have my moments of joy, but I'm pretty sure that's only because it's busy inflicting misery somewhere else. I admit that others suffer far more than I do. In war-torn Eastern European countries, in times of famine in Africa or even in the inner cities here in the States, the Universe doles out punishment far in excess of my own. But when it does spare a moment to remember that I exist and that I may be temporarily feeling pretty darn good about myself, look out! The past few days have been one of those times when the Forces-That-Be realize they've been too easy on me. So, I'm on call at work and getting woken up at 4am by my pager going off (and again at 5am, etc.), I'm sore from starting a new exercise plan, I was out of work Monday with a serious migraine and now I'm pretty sure I'm coming down with something. Yes, I realize I'm whining. My blog, my privilege. But, in the interest of not being too big of a twit, I'll leave it at that and move on.
I'll be the first to admit that the modern world kind of sucks in a lot of little ways (and several big ones, too), but the book I'm currently reading makes me kind of glad I'm living in a reasonably technologically advanced era. It's called "Dies the Fire" by S.M. Stirling and it tells the story of a global cataclysm that renders advanced technology useless. Electricity is no longer a slave to the whims of Man. Gunpowder and high explosives are rendered inert. Yes, the set up is a little hokey, but the brutal fight for survival that follows is graphic enough to make me look around at our comfortable, air-conditioned, food-rich, computer-driven world and sigh in relief. Ironically, some of the main characters in the book are former SCA people. It has been said that should society collapse and technology become scarce, that Scadians would have a field day. We already know how to fight with primitive weapons and many of us have skills that pre-date the onset of modern technology. We have blacksmiths, leather workers, horse trainers, bowyers, etc. But, for most of us, it's a hobby. Something we do in our spare time. Sure, we invest a lot in developing those skills, but it's still not a life or death thing. What if it was? Would we really be able to survive the brutal after-effects of a global breakdown of technology? Some of us would, I'm sure. There may even arise new nations based around strong Scadian warlords in such a setting. But it wouldn't be pretty. The grim reality of such a situation would be rife with famine, disease and human brutality. Many people would die in all kinds of horrific ways. I'd rather not find out if I would be one of them, thank you very much. Still, reading this book, I have to wonder if being thrown into a struggle like that would crush us into dust or bring out a hidden reserve of strength. I have no illusions about my current state of health or my ability to compete with people who are bigger, stronger, better trained and experienced in real combat. The reality of it would be deeply unpleasant for people like me. But the fantasy of somehow becoming a hardened survivor, a cunning, experienced, dangerous denizen of a grim post-apocalyptic wasteland, well, that is somehow darkly attractive. What would we do if our technological cradle were overturned and the thin veil of civilized behavior were torn away? It is an interesting question to ponder. Hopefully, such a thing will remain firmly in the realm of fiction and not something we ever really have to face. It would make our current woes seem petty indeed.
I'll be the first to admit that the modern world kind of sucks in a lot of little ways (and several big ones, too), but the book I'm currently reading makes me kind of glad I'm living in a reasonably technologically advanced era. It's called "Dies the Fire" by S.M. Stirling and it tells the story of a global cataclysm that renders advanced technology useless. Electricity is no longer a slave to the whims of Man. Gunpowder and high explosives are rendered inert. Yes, the set up is a little hokey, but the brutal fight for survival that follows is graphic enough to make me look around at our comfortable, air-conditioned, food-rich, computer-driven world and sigh in relief. Ironically, some of the main characters in the book are former SCA people. It has been said that should society collapse and technology become scarce, that Scadians would have a field day. We already know how to fight with primitive weapons and many of us have skills that pre-date the onset of modern technology. We have blacksmiths, leather workers, horse trainers, bowyers, etc. But, for most of us, it's a hobby. Something we do in our spare time. Sure, we invest a lot in developing those skills, but it's still not a life or death thing. What if it was? Would we really be able to survive the brutal after-effects of a global breakdown of technology? Some of us would, I'm sure. There may even arise new nations based around strong Scadian warlords in such a setting. But it wouldn't be pretty. The grim reality of such a situation would be rife with famine, disease and human brutality. Many people would die in all kinds of horrific ways. I'd rather not find out if I would be one of them, thank you very much. Still, reading this book, I have to wonder if being thrown into a struggle like that would crush us into dust or bring out a hidden reserve of strength. I have no illusions about my current state of health or my ability to compete with people who are bigger, stronger, better trained and experienced in real combat. The reality of it would be deeply unpleasant for people like me. But the fantasy of somehow becoming a hardened survivor, a cunning, experienced, dangerous denizen of a grim post-apocalyptic wasteland, well, that is somehow darkly attractive. What would we do if our technological cradle were overturned and the thin veil of civilized behavior were torn away? It is an interesting question to ponder. Hopefully, such a thing will remain firmly in the realm of fiction and not something we ever really have to face. It would make our current woes seem petty indeed.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Why's the RUM gone?
RUM (aka Royal University of Meridies) was this past weekend. It is an SCA event designed for teaching new skills and such to anyone who wants to learn. My group hosted it this year and while it was a big job, we still managed to have a lot of fun. I was (of course) in charge of the rapier classes and activities. The turn out wasn't as large as I had hoped, but we did get enough to make it worthwhile. There was class on German two-handed longsword, taught by my lady wife, Ysabel, a class on DiGrassi (a period master of defence) taught by Thomas O'Toole, and a melee tactics class that I taught. After a break for lunch, we fought a few pick ups in the blazing heat and the Queen's Ring changed hands a few times. I managed to get it from Hawk (barely) then defended it successfully from Leon and Ysabel. She decided to pony up the $5 to challenge me a second time and won it. Never trust a woman in a sword fight. They are damned sneaky.
The real news came after the fighting was done and we had cleaned up for Court and feast. Our group received many accolades from the Crown at this event. Thomas O'Toole was awarded the Argent Rapier (and it's about time). Waldryk got an Argent Comet for service. Ysabel and I (for reasons we have yet to figure out) were awarded the Argent Lily. Now, this is a rare honor, from what we were told. Each Crown can only give this award out once during Their reign, so the number of persons that have it is limited. It is supposed to be given to reward "courtliness, refinement, elegance and courtesy". I can totally understand Ysabel being recognized for those qualities. I, on the other hand... well, let's just say it's a bit of a stretch. However, I will not presume to question the wisdom of the Crown. We were deeply honored to be awarded the Argent Lily and even more honored that everyone seemed to think we genuinely deserved it.
There was one other award received by a member of our Shire that outshines even the Argent Lily. Sir Griffin O'Suaird was granted an Augmentation of Arms. This is, according to what I've been told, the highest, most esteemed award any Kingdom can give. It is reserved for the best of the best, the most dedicated, the most respected, the most (pardon the vulgarity) kick ASS members of the Society. Anything more that I could say would pale in the face of Sir Griffin's accomplishments, so I'll simply say "well deserved" and move on.
Now that the event is over, we can reflect on all that has happened and look forward to what's to come. RUM was an exhausting and exhilarating experience that will not be soon forgotten, but other things are coming up that we need to get ready for. We are planning on attending Beggar's Rebellion in a few weeks and Tourney of the Foxes a couple weeks after that. Our group has been tasked with running the next Coronation in September, also. Having to organize another large, Kingdom-level event so soon after RUM will be difficult, but I have faith in our Shire and I know we can pull it off. In between our SCA obligations, I'm hoping to get a chance to go see the new Batman movie and Hellboy 2. Both look to be pretty awesome. I missed my chance to see the Hulk, which irritates me, but I'm sure I'll see it on DVD when it comes out. Might even have that 50" flat screen tv by then... ok, probably not. Also, a new expansion set for Magic the Gathering comes out on Friday and from everything I've seen, it is going to rock. I'm hoping to get some people over that night for some card flopping fun.
So, all in all, good times have come and gone and will come again. Despite all the badness, life does seem to have its upside.
Speaking of the good life, I am still working on getting some pics up from our beach trip a couple weeks ago. So, I'm a slacker, but apparently I'm a courtly, refined, elegant and courteous slacker. So there! :op
The real news came after the fighting was done and we had cleaned up for Court and feast. Our group received many accolades from the Crown at this event. Thomas O'Toole was awarded the Argent Rapier (and it's about time). Waldryk got an Argent Comet for service. Ysabel and I (for reasons we have yet to figure out) were awarded the Argent Lily. Now, this is a rare honor, from what we were told. Each Crown can only give this award out once during Their reign, so the number of persons that have it is limited. It is supposed to be given to reward "courtliness, refinement, elegance and courtesy". I can totally understand Ysabel being recognized for those qualities. I, on the other hand... well, let's just say it's a bit of a stretch. However, I will not presume to question the wisdom of the Crown. We were deeply honored to be awarded the Argent Lily and even more honored that everyone seemed to think we genuinely deserved it.
There was one other award received by a member of our Shire that outshines even the Argent Lily. Sir Griffin O'Suaird was granted an Augmentation of Arms. This is, according to what I've been told, the highest, most esteemed award any Kingdom can give. It is reserved for the best of the best, the most dedicated, the most respected, the most (pardon the vulgarity) kick ASS members of the Society. Anything more that I could say would pale in the face of Sir Griffin's accomplishments, so I'll simply say "well deserved" and move on.
Now that the event is over, we can reflect on all that has happened and look forward to what's to come. RUM was an exhausting and exhilarating experience that will not be soon forgotten, but other things are coming up that we need to get ready for. We are planning on attending Beggar's Rebellion in a few weeks and Tourney of the Foxes a couple weeks after that. Our group has been tasked with running the next Coronation in September, also. Having to organize another large, Kingdom-level event so soon after RUM will be difficult, but I have faith in our Shire and I know we can pull it off. In between our SCA obligations, I'm hoping to get a chance to go see the new Batman movie and Hellboy 2. Both look to be pretty awesome. I missed my chance to see the Hulk, which irritates me, but I'm sure I'll see it on DVD when it comes out. Might even have that 50" flat screen tv by then... ok, probably not. Also, a new expansion set for Magic the Gathering comes out on Friday and from everything I've seen, it is going to rock. I'm hoping to get some people over that night for some card flopping fun.
So, all in all, good times have come and gone and will come again. Despite all the badness, life does seem to have its upside.
Speaking of the good life, I am still working on getting some pics up from our beach trip a couple weeks ago. So, I'm a slacker, but apparently I'm a courtly, refined, elegant and courteous slacker. So there! :op
Monday, July 14, 2008
I'm Alive!
I swear, I'm still breathing. It's just that I've been on vacation and haven't had the opportunity to update my blog. I promise I'll post some neat pics and stuff from the trip, I'm just not sure when. I'm still pretty wiped out from it. I need a vacation from my vacation. More later.
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