[Steppes] Fighter Practice - 08-01-04

[meggiddo at netzero.net]

Heilsa,

Once again another Steppes Fighter Practice has come and gone, with
those that were present felt it to be arousing success.

Yes, the humidity was in abundant and in combination with the heat of
this
past Sunday, but it could NOT dampened the spirits of the both the
fighters and their supporters who came out to partake and enjoy the day
of
fighter practice.

We have shade in abundant as well, the trees in the park are older now
and are spreading their leafy canopies to shield all who came to either
partake or to stand in awe of the fighting. Add in the sun pavilion that
I provided and there was shade for all.

The most important item that was in over abundant was "COMMON SENSE"
that all, who attended, exhibit this past Sunday and for which I must
say a heartily "Thank You" to all of you and a hugh "VIVAT"! 

No one push themselves, for there was no need. When someone felt the
need to step down and refresh themselves, then they did so. Fighting was
paced and measured out by each individual, thus each fighter gained
additional insight into his/her abilities on multiple levels. This is
Texas and the weather that we all fight in and/or wish to enjoy this
game/hobby is usually warm to hot. Although, one not as humid as this
summer proven to be to
todate.

Everyone supplied their OWN water and other fluids (i.e., Gatorade,
Orange Juice, etc...), plus any snack food. There was some sharing among
those present. 

There are two water fountains less than 200 feet from where the practice
is held at and in front the restrooms.

If the attendance becomes greater, do NOT fear for there was will be
additional shade to be had. It requires some assistance, but there was
at
least one if not two more pavillions available to be assembly and put in
place for the enjoyment of all.

In attendance at this practice were the following:

Sir Mahdi, Baron of the Steppes, 

Centurion Morgan and his lady Kim, 

Hrafn (Curtis) - Steppes KM, and who be leaving for Pennsic later this
month, 

Hosey and his children - Tori, Jon, and Nikko,

Squire Isolda, 

Chiara - captain of the Steppes Baronial Guard,

Roc the Bold and his Lady Icia - Roc is also an excellent make of armor.
I am wearing a new helm that he made, so is Hrafn and Matt. And prices
are very reasonable.

Clayton, 

Matt and his Lady Nicole - who is making progress in getting his own
armor and was wearing his new helm that Roc made for him, 

Aria and his brother Donnelley (sp?), 

Duncan and his Lady Kitty - who made attend the fighter practice after
attending the archery practice that morning,

Seamus - who this week did not fight, who will be leaving for Pennsic
later this month,

Stephanie and Eric who came out to watch with their children,

Linda and her son, Levi.

and here I must apologized to those members of this barony for I did not
know and/or remember your names and can not make mention of your
wonderful support of the both the fighters and of the Steppes fighter
practice.

This past Sunday's practice plan was initially to continue with more
melee practices, since Gothic Wars are 5 weeks away. All the practice in
unit formation is greatly desire in order to fight upon that field on
Labor Weekend, September 3rd through the 6th at Gothic Wars and in the
near future 3 Kings in November. Add that Gulf Wars will be here shortly
after that.

Everyone knows the old saying - "The laid plans..." Based upon last
Sunday's (7-25-04) wonderful melee practice results - both good and
mixed. (I will be forwarding the results of that practice after this one
to the list for all to enjoy and share.)

The melee practice did NOT happen, instead additional instruction was
provide in various areas and all based upon each individual fighter's
requests and/or needs in to improve their own fighting skills. Thus,
those individuals who put their own pleasure and enjoyment on hold to
further these fighters' fighting skill, a great and much deserved -

"Thank You" to:

Sir Mahdi for providing individual instruction to each fighter that
walked over and requested a fight from you, Your Excellency. And to
those fighters who DID request a fight and more importantly for asking!

Centurion Morgan - once again for your time and effort in providing
instruction for all who asked.

Squire Isolda - providing instruction for all that asked.

Hosey - for providing instruction with spear for Chiara and working with
Duncan with two swords for they walked over and asked Hosey for
instruction.

I will stress this point again - all the above individuals mention
above, Sir Mahdi, Centurion Morgan, Squire Isolda, and Hosey gave up
part of their own time and pleasure to provide instruction to all who
asked. Although, true these wonderful people were fighting, they were
fighting at a least degree level and skill to provide instruction to all
who ask for instruction from them. They deserve a hugh -

"VIVAT"

for doing so!

Aria for bring out and setting up a pell for individual fighters to
practice their sword swings.

Roc did take "The HILL" and took on all challengers with a great axe. I
believe that Hrafn and his "Mace of Doom" was the first to replace Roc
on the "The Hill". Then it was one right after another to step up and
make the attempt to take "The Hill" and/or defended it. I lost count of
who was fighting and who was holding. And who finally held "The Hill" at
the end of this friendly contest of skill. Perhaps the fighter who held
"The Hill" will step up and attempt to defend their title next week?

Roc had made a new shield made from birch wood and although according to
Centurion Morgan is had bad "heraldry" upon the face. :) Everyone who
wish to try it like this shield. Just another example of Roc's ability
to fashion not only armor but shields as well.

Sir Mahdi and Hosey fought with small bucklers and swords toward the end
of the practice.

Hrafn and Chiara faced off in a spear duel.

I know that I have left out others that were either instructing or
actually fighting, but this is what I remember.

With as many gentles present, both fighting and on the side lines, there
was time to enjoy each other's company between fights. I can NOT stress
the important of pacing one's self and seeking refreshments.

This training in the heat will be repaid in many folds when each
individual takes the battlefield and is able to stay the course, while
watching those who have NOT train with the heat, walk from the field.
Thus in the long run, the payment for all the training and yes, the
sweat will be repaid.

Next week there will another Steppes Fighter Practice. Hopefully, there
will be another melee practice in which all weapons types are welcome. 


Michael Fray