[Ansteorra] Costal Invasion

[Richard Threlkeld]

I attended Costal Invasion this weekend at HL Caley's invitation to
photograph the event. Though it was a long ride, it was well worth it. The
group was very welcoming to us, the Crown, Their Excellencies Loch Sollier,
His Excellency Elfsea, and all the others who came to help them celebrate
their 25th year. The weather was near perfect until late evening Saturday
(then it got a little cool for my cold adverse body). The activities were
fun and everyone was very concentrated on teaching and being taught instead
of just winning (or whining). 

 

The heavies got the Tunnel of Tough Love (you had to be there), a variety of
field and bridge scenarios, and fighting in a ravine until they could no
longer lift a sword or spear. The rapier fighters practiced melee tactics in
field and bridge scenarios. The King fought, taught, and marshaled
chivalric. The Queen spent most of the afternoon honing her rapier melee
skills. I was impressed by the amount of friendly, but earnest training and
learning. 

 

An historic display that exceeded in size and content any I have seen at
other events filled a large tent. You could recognize many of the Shire's
current members in younger bodies. Many previous members came back for the
event and some were heard to say they would becoming active members again.
The founding Seneschal stood in court and told all how impressed she was
with what they had become. 

 

I was particularly impressed by the cooks and their products. They provided
breakfast, lunch, and feast on Saturday with a great breakfast on Sunday.
All were good, but the feast was amazing in both quality and quantity. His
Majesty, as a Laurel renowned for his cooking, gave them much earned praise.
The biggest dish was a suckling pig which was roasted in a pit all day. The
middle Eastern luncheon was excellent and just right for the day. The Shire
is well known for its hospitality and cooking and they proved it yet again.

 

Thanks for the wonderful event,

Caelin on Andrede