Despite the perilous journey; we made it to the war. On the field we were told fighting would take place between groups of our choosing. Boy, we were popular. Galatia force was quickly joined by our allies and Blackspear to rock the battle. And rock the gate, we did. The gates could not stay in place with the spirit and volume of fighters pouring through… never a charge without a hold. We came to fight and that’s what we did. Everyone was worn before the day came to a close. The “gate” part of the war was fun but tiresome. Following gate scenarios was a capture the flag battle. It was a blast while it lasted. Hot tempers can harry the best of us (and them) at times. After the last battle of the day was called off, we found our own fun. It is always a pleasure to fight a new opponent. A small group of Atlantians gave us their all in a purely fun melee pickup and we ended the day on a cheerful note.

Highlights:
Rocking the Gate, hope it doesn’t fall
Clayson of the Jungle
No one got knocked out
Cool shops
Fighting beside Blackspear

Practice, Practice, Practice. No one wants to get stomped into the mud when taking the field after a long cold winter…And oh what a muddy practice it was. A night full of rain gave way to a chilly but pleasant and sunny spring day. The practice started with training and drills. Galatia was put to task training the Northern Army in melee movement and unit cohesion. After the formal training segment of the day gave way, we got to do what we came for, fighting melee. It is always refreshing to kill a new enemy. The battles were well matched, spirited, and clean…Aside from all the mud, just try not to fall over. There is a fantastic energy and direction throughout the Northern Army and we stand to see a promising relationship between our forces in the future. This was a day of just outright fun fighting.

Highlights:
Snack table. Oranges, grapes, pretzels, pickles, water, and Gatorade too.
No one got knocked out.
Big SCAdian style melee practice.
Skilled and enthusiastic SCAdian leaders and teachers.
Getting on the field and swinging stick.

It has been almost a week ago since King Cheslov passed away. This is a very sad time for Markland. Few men I have ever known have cast a shadow like Chet. He was in most respects a quiet unimposing man and yet he was a mountain of achievements. He was opinionated, but also able to leave others to their own devices. . . .

The great war horns haves sounded and conflict reigns again. Galatia looks to be starting off this year with three busy fighting weekends. Let’s hope they got around to all those winter repairs they planned. Thursday practices have started again, as the Galatian’s wave goodbye to their much loved M. Vick’s Kennel Club practice. What will this new season bring? Many young hungry Galatian sword arms for one...However will all these young neophytes be ready for the challenges that lie ahead? Will the grizzled veterans be able to keep this young squad in line? Only time and a few butt whoopings, both given and taken, will tell.