ANST - Lions/Sword

[Charles Richardson]

Greetings to all who have patiently awaited word on the outcome of the
Gathering of the Pride at Steppes Twelfthnight.

First, Orm and I wish to thank each person, barony and group who have so
generously offered support to our Kingdom during this time.  Many of you
have expressed concern about how the traditions associated with the Sword of
State would be treated.  Much good was maintained at twelfthnight, as follows:  

We resolved that the tradition of the Lions' presenting and maintaining the
Sword of State will be upheld. Guardianship of the Sword of State will
remain with the Lions.  It was not given to the Lions to seek a blade, and
in that matter the Pledge was put aside.  For that I am truly sad.  However,
a blade of good lineage has been chosen that, again, comes from our mother
kingdom; and it was established that all the Lions will work together to
finish and furnish blade, belt, scabbard, and box for a sword for the King
to hold, and in this way the Lions are bringing forth the new sword.

As all the Royal family once held the Sword that Was, their identities
became part of the sword's identity. It was decided that the sword being
assembled should pass through their hands, each in turn, so that the
Sovereigns who will hold the Sword will have a connection to those who have
held it.

The sword will be brought forth for the first time in a special way.  It was
established that after that time, the Lions would again retrieve the Sword
from the departing Sovereign, and bring it forth for the Sovereign to hold
for the People of Ansteorra, as has been in the past.  

Duke Inman also charged the Royal family to create a book of the history of
what oaths were taken on the Sword that Was, what deeds were done before it,
and more, so that naught should be forgotten of the Great Sword of State
that has passed.

Again, to all those who have so generously supported our Kingdom in regard
to this loss, our thanks.

For Ansteorra,
Megan Andoniel



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