Queen's Defender Fall 2011

After checking out the SCA's (Society for Creative Anachronisms) website, I thought it might be just the thing for me.  I've always been interested in history and dressing up and camping.  I had lots of baskets, brass candlesticks, brass goblets, linen table cloths, etc.  The online calendar of events for my kingdom, Ansteorra, I found an event nearby called Queen's Defender being held at Camp Mabry in Austin.  I decided to go.  I dressed up in what I thought would be acceptable garb.  The underblouse from my Ren Faire outfit and the underskirt with a wide belt with brass fittings, sandals and a leather bag/purse.  I later realized I had been walking around in the medieval version of underwear!

I arrived, found the 'Troll' as they call the cashier, paid my entry fee plus non-member fee and received a phrase from The Priness Bride on a strip of heavy paper with a yellow ribbon.  I had no idea what it was for!  But, I really loved The Princess Bride and liked the quote I received which was, 'My name is Inigo Montoya, prepare to die!"  Later I discovered that was my site token to prove I had paid the entrance fee.

Walking around I was amazed and interested in all the costumes (garb) and things going on.  There was 4 squares of combat being held.  The King Aaron was so handsome and Queen Amelot would put Queen Elizabeth I to shame.  There was a merchant set up selling everything from jewelry and prayer beads to helms and books.  I chatted with them for a few minutes.  Someone sent for the Hospitler but they never showed up so I just stood around and watched the fighting.  At one point there was a respite of the fighting and the Queen made a parade around the fighting field (lists) as she passed me I curtsied a little and she smiled at me, I know it sound silly but I felt honored.  There was betting going on for the fighters in the vein of 2 dozen deviled eggs and such.

There was a break for lunch, I was tired of just standing around and as no-one but the merchants had talked to me I left.