The ceremonies are in big type so that if you print
this out, it is easier to read in the dark.
Introduction and Log
of changes
This document will contain a record of Ceremonies to be
used for the Principality of Avacal. This starts with the Champion ceremonies
and Elder ceremony as they appeared in the Principality Petition. In looking
to Add Investiture ceremonies for the Tanist and Tanista and the Prince
and Princess, our current Prince and Princess, Rorik and Gwendolyn have
indicated that they would like to draw upon the traditions set by the once
Principality of An Tir. Attempting to find such ceremonies has proven difficult.
I have examined the Kingdom of the West Ceremonies at the time An Tir was
a Principality, and found nothing that applied to the Principalities of
the time. I have made inquires around the Internet looking for such ceremonies
and received no response. It is possible that there were no formal written
ceremonies for An Tir, until it became a Kingdom. Those who witnessed events
of the time seem to indicate that the courts were pretty informal. I am
no advocate for formality in court, but it is useful to have the format
and structure of a ceremony available to give the herald something to say
instead of ad-libbing. Since there is nothing I can draw on as far as the
Principality of An Tir goes, I will modify the existing investiture of
the Crown Prince and Princess of An Tir to create a investiture ceremony
of the Tanist and Tanista of Avacal. I also have the ceremony that was
used for the Investiture of Rorik and Gwendolyn as Prince and Princess,
which I will include for now. The ceremonies are written assuming that
a male fighter wins with the inspiration of a female. If the opposite occurs,
don't forget to transpose gender and titles appropriately.
20 Feb 97
Adding in Investiture ceremonies for upcoming investiture.
Although a ceremony was used at the last one by the King, it was based
(on the fly) on the Crown Prince and Princess ceremonies of An Tir, which
as a investing of heirs to the thrones, was not really appropriate for
changing reigning royalty. I have left in the ceremony used then, but added
a new one. I instead drew on the Coronation ceremony, taking out some parts
like the Oath of Sovereignty and adding oaths of fealty to the Crown if
present. Also the Kingdom ceremonies tend to treat the King and Queen separately.
Besides making the court longer, I would like to think that in Avacal we
try to treat the winner and inspiration equally and together as a couple,
so I've streamlined a bit by having things go simultaneously where possible.
I've allowed for oaths of fealties from various peoples and levels after
the crowning, but I am leaving it open as to who and when and what kind
of groups. I've also added a combined Viscounts ceremony using the same
principles based on the An Tir County ceremonies.
7 Aug. 97
I am adding to the Champions ceremonies the granting of
royal favors for the inspirations of the new champions. I add the invocation
of the Coronet lists as used in June Coronet of this year. Added changes
to Viscounty ceremony as it was done for Rorik and Gwendolyn in February.
The King substituted an oath for the one I adapted from the County ceremony.
I never did get a copy of it, so the ceremony still includes the adapted
County oath. I am adding a specific oath of fealty for a new Tanist and
Tanista. I am re-arranging the order of the ceremonies at this time to
match as best as possible the order throughout the year starting at June
Coronet. I am not sure what we did at last investiture as to whether the
old or new Prince and Princess conduct the swearing in of the new champions.
09Oct97
After the investiture in August, and Vik and Albrecht's
drama for investiture the elements of that ceremonies were chosen to be
included and seemed to flow nicely. I am updating the Investiture ceremony
to reflect what was done there. As before I take the wishes of the Royalty
and set down the precedents to aid future courts. Also Ceridwyn introduced
a new Principality order of the Princesses Knot and set down the ceremony
she wished based on the Kingdom silver rose ceremony.
24Feb99
There have been cases of awards given when no scroll is
ready, so we need something to read when such an award is given out. I
am including suitable copies of the scroll texts into the Ceremonial.
23Feb2000
Every time I've gone to do the champion's ceremonies,
I've been commanded to do them seperately. With all respect to the original
author, I think it would be best at this time to separate them out in the
ceremonies. I've also changed the oaths to follow the form of an oath of
fealty. They were originally written and used before we had a Prince and
Princess.
21Feb 2002
Added addition of members of the Princesses Guard. Addition
of an alternative Investiture version with Prince and Princess invested
together (at the request of HH Albrecht). Also added an appropriate exit
of the outgoing Prince and Princess.Added invocation of Sword and Arrow
champion tournaments based on a writeup by Heinrich, but removed a speech
by the Herald to the competitors which I believe would pre-empt the speech
made by their Highnesses.
2 Nov 2002
Added last text for Golden Oak
6 Dec 2005
Added text for Griffin of Avacal
Invocation of the Coronet
Lists
(If it is their Highnesses wish, a Grand procession of
the entrants in the lists will be done. May or may not include representation
of the branches of Avacal)
Herald: Your Highnesses, hear now the names of the entrants
in these coronet lists of the Principality of Avacal.
(Procession of entrants and the consorts. Each are introduced
to their Highnesses. Belted fighters line up on their Highnesses right
and unbelted to the left)
Herald: Hear now the words of their Highnesses
(The Prince and Princess say inspirational stuff leading
up to the taking of the contestant's oath)
Herald: Do you each swear to abide by the Rules of the
Lists?
Contestants: I so swear.
Herald: Do you each have a consort whose favor your advance
and whom you may make Princess or Prince of Avacal should you prove victorious
on the field?
Contestants: I do.
Herald: Do you swear that should victory be yours today,
you and your chosen consort will attend your investiture, the coronet tourney
to choose your successor and your successor's investiture, and that you
and your consort will fulfill the duties and obligations of a Prince and
Princess of Avacal, ruling justly, according to the laws of Avacal and
An Tir, to the utmost of your abilities as long as you shall reign?
Contestants: I so swear.
Herald: Then go bravely forth to the field of honor and
prove the worth of your consorts in noble victory or honorable defeat.
Herald: Would those who would bestow favors upon these
contestants please come forth and do so now.
(favors are given)
(After the Prince and Princess even out the lines, each
contestant on the unbelted side goes forth and challenges a belted side
fighter and then goes to the lists to prepare for the first round)
Investiture of the Tanist and
Tanista of Avacal
(don't forget to have the coronets ready and chairs available
for the Tanist and Tanista and silver griffins before starting)
Herald: Come forward, _______, victorious in the Lists
this day and with you, _______, who has so inspired her champion to victory.
(they come forward)
H: May it please your Highnesses _______, has by his valor
and skill, most nobly advanced the honor of his lady, _______, and has
been victorious in the Coronet Lists of Avacal. They do now come before
your Highnesses to claim the honor which is their due.
(Prince and Princess take the coronets and rise)
Prince: ________, mindful of your prowess in the Lists,
and ________, seeing the grace with which you have inspired your champion
to victory, in accordance with the laws and customs of Avacal and An Tir,
We name you Tanist and Tanista of Avacal.
(P&P place coronets upon heads of the Tanist and Tanista)
Princess: Wear these coronets as Our successors to the
thrones of Avacal in all honor and glory.
(If an oath of fealty is to be done, then it would be
done here)
Herald: Do you now swear fealty to ________ and ________,
your undoubted Prince and Princess, that you will support and defend them
in your hearts and in your homes and that you will obey them in all lawful
and just commands in all matters that concern this realm, and that as our
heirs, you will prepare yourselves until such time that you become Prince
and Princess of Avacal?
Tanist and Tanista: I so swear
Prince or Princess: And we for our part, do swear that
we shall do all in our power to protect and defend you, and to help you
prepare to receive the coronets, until such time as you inherit the thrones
of Avacal. So say We ________, Prince of Avacal; So say We ________, Princess
of Avacal.
(this will be were any extra handing out of regalia happens
when we get some)
Prince or Princess: And now, as is proper, come and sit
beside us in the place of honor.
(the herald will extort the cheers of the populous)
H: Come forth __________ and __________, and kneel before
your Princess
(when they do that the Princess will give them a silver
griffin)
Princess: __________, you have fought with great skill
and valor this day, and because you have fought as a finalist in the Coronet
tournament of the Principality of Avacal, and __________, as you have inspired
your champion to great honor this day, I hereby grant you the honor of
the Silver Griffin which this token represents. Bear this as a reminder
to all of the skill, honor and grace you have shown this day.
(the herald will extort the cheers of the populous)
Invocation of the
Champion of Swords Tournament
Herald: Let all who would compete for the title of Avacal
Champion of Sword, come forward now before their Highnesses.
(The contestants do a procession before their highnesses
each being introduced with their inspiration. Alternatively the procession
may be combined of the Sword and Arrow competitors)
Herald: Today you enter the Lists to vie for the honor
of being named the Avacal Champion of Sword. Attend now the words of the
Coronet.
(The Prince and Princess give an inspirational speech
to the competitors which outlines the responsibility of the Champion's
position. At the end the competitors are directed to attend the Herald
for the charge.)
Herald: Do each of you now swear that should you be given
victory that you will fulfill the obligations of the Avacal Champion of
Sword, and that you will abide by the laws of this Principality, and that
you will bear yourself, now and in the future, with the honor and skill,
virtue and loyalty which must mark the Avacal Champion of Sword?
Competitors: I so swear.
Herald: Then bear yourselves bravely in competition and
strive with honor to the greater glory of the Coronet and principality
of Avacal.
(His highness then will even out the belted and unbelted
sides and carry out the challenges for the first round).
Invocation of the
Champion of Arrows Tournament
Herald: Let all who would compete for the title of Avacal
Champion of Arrows, come forward now before their Highnesses.
(The contestants do a procession before their highnesses
each being introduced with their inspiration. Alternatively the procession
may be combined of the Sword and Arrow competitors)
Herald: Today you enter the Lists to vie for the honor
of being named the Avacal Champion of Arrows. Attend now the words of the
Coronet.
(The Prince and Princess give an inspirational speech
to the competitors which outlines the responsibility of the Champion's
position. At the end the competitors are directed to attend the Herald
for the charge.)
Herald: Do each of you now swear that should you be given
victory that you will fulfill the obligations of the Avacal Champion of
Arrows, and that you will abide by the laws of this Principality, and that
you will bear yourself, now and in the future, with the honor and skill,
virtue and loyalty which must mark the Avacal Champion of Arrows?
Competitors: I so swear.
Herald: Then bear yourselves bravely in competition and
strive with honor to the greater glory of the Coronet and principality
of Avacal.
(If there is a paired competition as part of the tournament,
His highness or her highness then will even out the belted and unbelted
sides and carry out the challenges for the first round).
Investiture Ceremony (sequential
version)
This is based on the Investiture in August 1997 which
has some elements from Roriks first investiture and some from the An Tir
coronation and some that will become uniquely Avacal. This is written assuming
a male winner of the Coronet tournament. If it is female, simply reverse
the genders (the Princess would crown her consort). Watch for variations
depending on the presence of the King and Queen.
Herald: __________ Tanist of Avacal has business before
this court.
(Tanist comes forward with the Tanista to make his claim
upon the coronet which may go like this or can be personalized)
Tanist: On the __ day of ________ in the year AS
____ , you did hold a tournament to determine who would succeed to the
Coronets of Avacal. In the end, I did stand victorious upon the field of
battle that day. Thus do I, by right of combat with ________, who, by her
grace and beauty, inspired me to victory, claim that what is ours by right
of arms and the laws and customs of this land: the coronets of Avacal.
(If there is to be some drama, e.g. Prince trying to hold
onto his throne etc. this is a good place for it. But eventually…)
Prince: We hear your claims and find them just. I now
call forward my champions. What say you regarding the claim of __________
to the coronets of Avacal?
(Each of the Champions of Avacal comes forward and make
champion's gauges of the populous challenging anyone to make claim against
the prospective royalty. Champions are encouraged to personalize these,
brandish weapons and be suitably dramatic, but, for example the Champion
of sword could say)
Champion of Sword: I, __________, champion of sword,
do declare that __________'s claim is just. (hurls gauntlet or other
symbol to the ground.) Be there anyone who would challenge the right of
__________
and __________ to the coronets of Avacal?
(wait a few seconds)
(same for Champion of Arrows)
(same for Bravo)
(same for the Champion of Arts and Sciences)
Prince: (to Tanist) Your claims have been acknowledged.
Step forward __________ and claim that which is yours by right of
arms.
(At this point if King is present, he steps forward to
continue ceremony.)
(Champion offers sword of state to swear upon)
(if King is present do oath of fealty as follows: Use
this same oath if Prince and Princess swear fealty to the King and Queen
at some later event)
Herald: Do you now swear fealty to ________ and ________,
your undoubted King and Queen, that you will support, defend and obey them
as your rightful sovereigns in all matters that concern this realm? That
you will serve and protect the Principality and populace of Avacal to the
utmost of your power and govern it's peoples according to the laws and
customs of Avacal and An Tir? That you will cause Law and Justice, in mercy
to be executed in their name in all your judgments and set an example of
honor to all, so long as you remain Prince and Princess of Avacal?
Tanist: I so swear
King and Queen: And we for our part, do swear to this
Prince of Avacal, that we shall do all in our power to protect and defend
you and the Principality of Avacal, so long as we remain King and Queen
of An Tir. So say We ________ King of An Tir; and so say We ________, Queen
of An Tir.
(if King is not present do the following oath to the outgoing
royalty instead)
Herald: Do you now swear that you will serve and protect
the Principality and populace of Avacal to the utmost of your power and
govern it's peoples according to the laws and customs of Avacal and An
Tir? That you will cause Law and Justice, in mercy to be executed, in their
Majesties name, in all your judgments, and set an example of honor to all,
so long as you remain Prince of Avacal?
Tanist: I so swear
(continue here for either Prince or King. Champion takes
back sword. Prince or King holds coronet over Tanist's head)
Prince (King if present): , mindful of your prowess in
the coronet lists, in accordance with the laws and customs of Avacal and
An Tir we name you Prince of Avacal
(Place coronet. Drape cloak)
Herald: People of Avacal, behold , your undoubted Prince.
Long Live Prince !!
(If Queen is present)
Princess (to Queen): I , do here renounce my claim to
the coronet of Avacal. To you my Queen, I hand my regalia to bestow upon
the lady who has inspired our Prince's chivalric deeds.
(champion provides sword of state. Tanista kneels and
places hands on the sword.)
Herald: Do you now swear fealty to ________ and ________,
your undoubted King and Queen, that you will support, defend and obey them
as your rightful sovereigns in all matters that concern this realm? That
you will serve and protect the Principality and populace of Avacal to the
utmost of your power and govern it's peoples according to the laws and
customs of Avacal and An Tir? That you will cause Law and Justice, in mercy
to be executed in their name in all your judgments and set an example of
honor to all, so long as you remain Princess of Avacal?
Tanista: I so swear
King and Queen: And we for our part, do swear to this
Princess of Avacal, that we shall do all in our power to protect and defend
you and the Principality of Avacal, so long as we remain King and Queen
of An Tir. So say We ________ King of An Tir; and so say We ________, Queen
of An Tir.
(If no Queen present)
Princess (to new Prince): I , do here renounce my claim
to the coronet of Avacal. To you my prince, I hand my regalia to bestow
upon the lady who has inspired your chivalric deeds. As princess she will
rule Avacal by your side.
(champion provides sword of state)
Herald: Do you now swear that you will serve and protect
the Principality and populace of Avacal to the utmost of your power and
govern it's peoples according to the laws and customs of Avacal and An
Tir? That you will cause Law and Justice, in mercy to be executed, in their
Majesties name, in all your judgments, and set an example of honor to all,
so long as you remain Princess of Avacal?
Princess: I so swear
(continue here for either Prince or Queen. Champion takes
back sword. Prince or Queen holds coronet over Tanista's head)
Prince (Queen if present): , mindful of the grace in which
you have inspired your champion to victory in the coronet lists, in accordance
with the laws and customs of Avacal and An Tir we name you Princess of
Avacal.
(Place coronet. Drape cloak)
Herald: People of Avacal, behold , your undoubted Princess.
Long Live Princess !!
(The past Prince and Princess bow to the new Prince and
Princess and process out of court with their retinue following)
Herald: (cheers) (use the titles they had before becoming
Prince and Princess)
(Oaths of Fealty begin. For now can use generic oath of
fealties or fill them in as we go)
-
champions
Herald : Do you now swear fealty to ________ and ________,
your undoubted Prince and Princess, that you will support and defend them
and Avacal from all harm or strife, so long as Their Highnesses remain
Prince and Princess of Avacal?
Champions: I so swear
Prince or Princess: And we for our part, do swear that
we shall do all in our power to protect and defend you, and to rule justly,
so long as we remain Prince and Princess of Avacal. So say We ________,
Prince of Avacal; So say We ________, Princess of Avacal.
-
Royal Peers
-
Nobility (Baron/Baronesses)
-
Knights (using their swords)
-
Laurels
-
Pelicans
(The above peers could be combined depending on whether
you want the knights swords being used along with the Laurels and Pelicans)
-
Officers
-
Populous
(Viscounty ceremony should be next)
Investiture Ceremony
(simultaneous version)
This is an alternative version of the Investiture ceremony
which is modified from the other version, but formatted so that the Prince
and Princess are Invested at that same time.
Herald: ________ and ________ Tanist and Tanista of Avacal
has business before this court.
(Tanist comes forward with the Tanista to make his claim
upon the coronet which may go like this or can be personalized)
Tanist: On the __ day of ________ in the year AS ____
, you did hold a tournament to determine who would succeed to the Coronets
of Avacal. In the end, I did stand victorious upon the field of battle
that day. Thus do I, by right of combat with ________, who, by her grace
and beauty, inspired me to victory, claim that what is ours by right of
arms and the laws and customs of this land: the coronets of Avacal.
(If there is to be some drama, e.g. Prince trying to hold
onto his throne etc. this is a good place for it. But eventually…)
Prince: We hear your claims and find them just. I now
call forward my champions. What say you regarding the claim of __________
to the coronets of Avacal?
(Each of the Champions of Avacal comes forward and make
champion's gauges of the populous challenging anyone to make claim against
the prospective royalty. Champions are encouraged to personalize these,
brandish weapons and be suitably dramatic, but, for example the Champion
of sword could say)
Champion of Sword: I, __________, champion of sword, do
declare that ________ and ________'s claims are just. (hurls gauntlet or
other symbol to the ground.) Be there anyone who would challenge the right
of __________ and __________ to the coronets of Avacal?
(wait a few seconds)
(same for Champion of Arrows)
(same for Bravo)
(same for the Champion of Arts and Sciences)
Prince: (to Tanist) Your claims have been acknowledged.
Step forward ________ and ________ and claim that which is yours by right
of arms.
(At this point if King and Queen are present, they step
forward to continue ceremony.)
(Champion offers sword of state to swear upon)
(if King is present do oath of fealty as follows: Use
this same oath if Prince and Princess swear fealty to the King and Queen
at some later event)
Herald: Do you now swear fealty to ________ and ________,
your undoubted King and Queen, that you will support, defend and obey them
as your rightful sovereigns in all matters that concern this realm? That
you will serve and protect the Principality and populace of Avacal to the
utmost of your power and govern it's peoples according to the laws and
customs of Avacal and An Tir? That you will cause Law and Justice, in mercy
to be executed in their name in all your judgments and set an example of
honor to all, so long as you remain Prince and Princess of Avacal?
Tanist and Tanista: I so swear
King and Queen: And we for our part, do swear to this
Prince and Princess of Avacal, that we shall do all in our power to protect
and defend you and the Principality of Avacal, so long as we remain King
and Queen of An Tir. So say We ________ King of An Tir; and so say We ________,
Queen of An Tir.
(if King is not present do the following oath to the outgoing
royalty instead)
Herald: Do you now swear that you will serve and protect
the Principality and populace of Avacal to the utmost of your power and
govern it's peoples according to the laws and customs of Avacal and An
Tir? That you will cause Law and Justice, in mercy to be executed, in their
Majesties name, in all your judgments, and set an example of honor to all,
so long as you remain Prince and Princess of Avacal?
Tanist and Tanista: I so swear
(continue here for either Prince or King. Champion takes
back sword. Prince or King holds coronet over Tanist's head and Princess
or Queen holds coronet over the Tanista's head)
Prince (King if present): , mindful of your prowess in
the coronet lists and the grace of your inspiration, in accordance with
the laws and customs of Avacal and An Tir we name you Prince and Princess
of Avacal.
(Place coronets. Drape cloaks. The new Prince and Princess
turn and face out from the thrones)
Herald: People of Avacal, behold ________ and ________,
your undoubted Prince and Princess . Long Live the Prince and Princess!!
(The past Prince and Princess bow to the new Prince and
Princess and process out of court with their retinue following)
Herald: (cheers) (use the titles they had before becoming
Prince and Princess)
(Oaths of Fealty begin. For now can use generic oath of
fealties or fill them in as we go)
-
Champions
Herald : Do you now swear fealty to ________ and ________,
your undoubted Prince and Princess, that you will support and defend them
and Avacal from all harm or strife, so long as Their Highnesses remain
Prince and Princess of Avacal?
Champions: I so swear
Prince or Princess: And we for our part, do swear that
we shall do all in our power to protect and defend you, and to rule justly,
so long as we remain Prince and Princess of Avacal. So say We ________,
Prince of Avacal; So say We ________, Princess of Avacal.
-
Royal Peers
-
Nobility (Baron/Baronesses)
-
Knights (using their swords)
-
Laurels
-
Pelicans
(The above peers could be combined depending on whether
you want the knights swords being used along with the Laurels and Pelicans)
-
Officers
-
Populous
(Viscounty ceremony should be next)
Avacal Viscount and Viscountess
Ceremony
This ceremony should be done as the first order of business
of the first court of a New Prince and Princess after their Investiture.
Ceremony is to invest a couple, but can be modified for a single when necessary.
Herald: ________ and ________, approach the Thrones.
Herald: May it please your Highnesses, your loyal subject
________ having by valor, skill and strength of arms won the Coronet of
Avacal inspired by the beauty, grace and virtue of your loyal subject ________
, both having reigned as Prince and Princess, and having descended from
the thrones, have thus, by their own ability, earned the title and rank
of Viscount and Viscountess of this Realm. They now make bold to approach
your Highnesses that they may receive the title and be invested with the
dignities of this high estate.
Princess: Let the Viscounty coronets be brought forth.
(Viscount coronet is given to Prince, while Viscountess
coronet is given to Princess.)
(Princess says some words about the one she succeeds)
Princess: ________, be henceforth Viscountess (or equivalent
title) in this our realm and wear this coronet in token of your rank. (Place
coronet)
(Prince says some words about the one he succeeds)
Herald: ________, be henceforth Viscount (or equivalent
title) in this our realm and wear this coronet in token of your rank. (Place
coronet)
Herald: Solicit Cheers!
Prince: Let the herald read the scroll of arms.
(Herald reads the scroll, hands it to the Prince who presents
it to the New Viscount. If there is a separate scroll for the Viscountess,
then read that and the Princess presents it to the Viscountess.)
(They may choose to swear fealty.)
Herald: Is it your desire to swear fealty to their Highnesses
of Avacal?
Viscount and Viscountess: It is.
(They kneel. They can swear on a weapon if they wish.)
Herald: Do you now swear fealty to ________ and ________,
your undoubted Prince and Princess, that you will support and defend them
and that you will obey them in all lawful and just commands in all matters
that concern this realm, and, as you once wore the coronets and received
the oaths of your people, do you, in your turn swear fealty to the Coronet
and Principality of Avacal? And, being mindful that the honor of the realm
springs from your own deeds, do you swear that you will treat chivalrously
and courteously with those of every degree so long as Their Highnesses
remain Prince and Princess of Avacal?
Viscount and Viscountess: I so swear
Prince or Princess: And we for our part, do swear fealty
to this Viscount and Viscountess of Avacal and swear that we shall do all
in our power to protect and defend you, so long as we remain Prince and
Princess of Avacal. So say We ________, Prince of Avacal; So say We ________,
Princess of Avacal.
Herald: Cheers!
Award of the Princess’ Knot
(Preamble: only do this once during court)
Herald: In the days when Scellanus ruled as Prince of
An Tir, Maelen, his princess, wished to honor those who had been of special
service to her during her reign and so established the award of the
Forget-me-not to be given by the Princesses of An Tir at their pleasure.
And likewise, Morag, first Queen of An Tir, determined that service to
the Queen was worthy of honor, and chose to continue to present the Forget-me-not
to those who had distinguished themselves in her service.
In the Principality of Avacal’s second reign, Sir Vik
Vikingsson honoured Ceridwyn at his side as Princess of Avacal. She has
continued tradition with the award of the Princess’ Knot. The Celtic Knot
signifying unbroken loyalty, the award distinguishes special services during
the reign and personal service beyond call of duty.
Herald: Would ________ present themselves before her Highness
_______.
(Princess places dangly on recipient with appropriate
greeting and hugging etc.)
(Herald solicits cheers)
Avacal Summer Champions Ceremony
(Preamble)
Herald: We the populace of Avacal, are met this day to
witness the selection of our Champions of the Field. These Champions, of
Sword and Arrow, are the defenders of our borders, holding the Principality
of Avacal against all challengers for the sake of their Highnesses, ________
and ________ the Prince and Princess of Avacal. So are we met, so have
we witnessed, so are Two, by grace of skill at combat fairly chosen.
Herald: Their highnesses call forward their champions
before them.
(The four current champions come forward and array themselves
around the thrones)
(Champion of Sword)
Herald: "In the name of their Highnesses, the Prince and
Princess of Avacal, I do bid ________ to present (him/her)selve before
this Court.
(winner of tournament present himself and kneel.)
Prince/Princess (addresses current champion): Milord/Milady
________ Champion of Sword at your investiture a year gone, you were charged
with the duty of seeing a successor to your posts fairly and truly chosen.
Before you now is the claimant to your place. Is honor satisfied and will
you step aside?
Present Champion: (a positive response)
Prince/Princess: Champions of Art and Rapier, do you concur?
(They give a positive response)
(Oath of fealty. A weapon is brought our to swear on)
Herald : Do you now swear fealty to ________ and ________,
your undoubted Prince and Princess, that you will support and defend them
and Avacal from all harm or strife, that you will use your skills justly,
to bring honor and glory upon the Principality of Avacal. That you will
enlighten this land and it's people, to the limits of your knowledge and
skills, abjuring all private quarrels, so long as you remain Champion of
Avacal?
Champion: I so swear
Prince or Princess: And we for our part, do swear that
we shall do all in our power to protect and defend you, so long as we remain
Prince and Princess of Avacal. So say We ________, Prince of Avacal; So
say We ________, Princess of Avacal.
Herald: By prowess shown this day, Their Highnesses bestow
upon you ________, the accolade of Principality Champion of Sword.
You join the Champions Artisan, Bravo and Champion Archer as the Four Cornerstones
of this land, representing all that is best in Avacal. You are charged
this day to use your skills justly, to bring honor and glory upon the Principality
of Avacal. You will defend and enlighten this land and it's people, to
the limits of your might, abjuring all private quarrels. And when the time
comes, you will see that your successor is fairly and truly chosen.
Herald: By all you hold sacred, so long as you are Champion
of Sword, ________, do you so swear?
New Champion: I so swear. (or any appropriate response)
Prince/Princess: Then accept from Us your tokens of rank.
(Former champion help accouter the new Champions with medallion and cloak,
and make whatever comments they feel appropriate)
Herald: (Cheers)
(Champion of Arrows)
Herald: "In the name of their Highnesses, the Prince and
Princess of Avacal, I do bid ________ to present him/herself before this
Court.
(winner of archery tourney present himself)
Prince/Princess: Milord/Milady ________ Champion of Arrow,
at your investiture a year gone, you were charged with the duty of seeing
a successor to your posts fairly and truly chosen. Before you now are claimants
to your place. Is honor satisfied and will you step aside?
Present Champions: (a positive response)
Prince/Princess: Champions of Art and Rapier, do you concur?
(They give a positive response)
(Oath of fealty. A weapon is brought our to swear on)
Herald : Do you now swear fealty to ________ and ________,
your undoubted Prince and Princess, that you will support and defend them
and Avacal from all harm or strife, that you will use your skills justly,
to bring honor and glory upon the Principality of Avacal. That you will
enlighten this land and it's people, to the limits of your knowledge and
skills, abjuring all private quarrels, so long as you remain Champion of
Avacal?
Champion: I so swear
Prince or Princess: And we for our part, do swear that
we shall do all in our power to protect and defend you, so long as we remain
Prince and Princess of Avacal. So say We ________, Prince of Avacal; So
say We ________, Princess of Avacal.
Herald: By prowess shown this day, their highnesses bestow
upon you ________, the accolade of Principality Champion Archer. You join
the Champion Artisan, Bravo and Champion of Sword as the Four Cornerstones
of this land, representing all that is best in Avacal. You are charged
this day to use your skills justly, to bring honor and glory upon the Principality
of Avacal. You will defend and enlighten this land and it's people, to
the limits of your might, abjuring all private quarrels. And when the time
comes, you will see that your successor is fairly and truly chosen.
Herald: By all you hold sacred, so long as you are Champion
of Arrow, ________, do you so swear?
New Champion: I so swear. (or any appropriate response)
Prince/Princess: Then accept from Us your tokens of rank.
(Former champion help accouter the new Champions with medallion and cloak,
and make whatever comments they feel appropriate)
Herald: (Cheers)
(inspirations)
Herald: Those who have inspired our new champions approach
their Highnesses
Prince/Princess: Accept these tokens of our favor for
your inspiration which guided our new champions to victory this day.
Herald: (Cheers).
(If either outgoing champion is not an elder go directly
to elder's ceremony while everyone is still present)
(if not:)
Prince/Princess: (ex champions) ________ and _______,
we appreciate your service to our Principality and give you leave to depart
with our deepest thanks.
Prince/Princess: Champions of Avacal, take now your rightful
places in our court.
Avacal Winter Champions Ceremony
(Call forward the current champions)
Herald: Would all the champions of Avacal present themselves
before their Highnesses.
(Current champions come forward and kneel)
Prince/Princess: My champions, stand and bear witness.
(Current champions stand and step to the side)
(Preamble)
Herald: We the populace of Avacal, are met this day to
witness the selection of our Champions of Grace. These Champions, of Arts
and Rapier, are the defenders of our philosophy, advancing the Principality
of Avacal in all manners gentle for the sake of their Highnesses, (insert
names) ________ and ________ the Prince and Princess of Avacal. So are
we met, so have we witnessed, so are Two, by grace of skill at Arts fairly
chosen.
(Rapier Champion:)
Herald: In the name of their Highnesses, the Prince and
Princess of Avacal, I do bid ________ to present him/herself before this
Court.
(winner of Rapier tourney comes forward and kneels.)
Prince/Princess: (address the current champion) Milord/Milady
________, my Champion of Rapier, at your investiture a year gone, you were
charged with the duty of seeing a successor to your post fairly and truly
chosen. Before you now is the claimant to your place. Is honor satisfied
and will you step aside?
Present Champion: (a positive response)
Prince/Princess: Champions of the Field, do you concur?
(they give a positive response).
(Oath of fealty. A weapon is brought our to swear on)
Herald : Do you now swear fealty to ________ and ________,
your undoubted Prince and Princess, that you will support and defend them
and Avacal from all harm or strife, that you will use your skills justly,
to bring honor and glory upon the Principality of Avacal. That you will
defend this land and it's people, to the limits of your might, abjuring
all private quarrels, so long as you remain Champion of Avacal?
Champion: I so swear
Prince or Princess: And we for our part, do swear that
we shall do all in our power to protect and defend you, so long as we remain
Prince and Princess of Avacal. So say We ________, Prince of Avacal; So
say We ________, Princess of Avacal.
Herald: By prowess shown this day, Their highnesses bestow
upon you ________, the accolade of Principality Champion Swashbuckler,
the Bravo of Avacal. You join the Champion of Sword, Champion of Arrow
and Champion of Arts as the Four Cornerstones of this land, representing
all that is best in Avacal. You are charged that when the time comes, you
will see that your successor is fairly and truly chosen.
Prince/Princess: Accept from Us your tokens of rank. (Former
champion help accouter the new Champion with the regalia)
Herald: (cheers)
(Champion of A&S)
Herald: "In the name of their Highnesses, the Prince and
Princess of Avacal, I do bid ________ to present him/herselves before this
Court.
(winner of Arts and Sciences tourney comes forward and
kneels.)
Prince/Princess: (address the current champion) Milord/Milady
________ Champion of Arts, at your investiture a year gone, you were charged
with the duty of seeing a successor to your post fairly and truly chosen.
Before you now is the claimant to your place. Is honor satisfied and will
you step aside?
Present Champions: (a positive response)
Champions of the Field, do you concur?
(they give a positive response).
(Oath of fealty. A weapon is brought our to swear on)
Herald : Do you now swear fealty to ________ and ________,
your undoubted Prince and Princess, that you will support and defend them
and Avacal from all harm or strife, that you will use your skills justly,
to bring honor and glory upon the Principality of Avacal. That you will
enlighten this land and it's people, to the limits of your knowledge and
skills, abjuring all private quarrels, so long as you remain Champion of
Avacal?
Champion: I so swear
Prince or Princess: And we for our part, do swear that
we shall do all in our power to protect and defend you, so long as we remain
Prince and Princess of Avacal. So say We ________, Prince of Avacal; So
say We ________, Princess of Avacal.
Herald: By your skill and talents shown this day, Their
highnesses bestow upon you ________, the accolade of Principality Champion
of the Arts and Sciences. You join the Champion of Sword, Champion of Arrow
and Bravo as the Four Cornerstones of this land, representing all that
is best in Avacal. You are charged that when the time comes, you will see
that your successor is fairly and truly chosen.
Prince /Princess: Accept from Us your tokens of rank.
(Former champion help accouter the new Champions with regalia, and make
whatever comments they feel appropriate)
Herald: (cheers)
(inspirations)
Herald: Those who have inspired our new champions approach
their Highnesses
Prince/Princess: Accept these tokens of our favor for
your inspiration which guided our new champions to victory this day.
Herald: (Cheers).
(If either outgoing champion is not an elder go directly
to elder's ceremony while everyone is still present)
(if not:)
Prince/Princess: (ex champions) ________ and _______,
we appreciate your service to our Principality and give you leave to depart
with our deepest thanks.
Prince/Princess: Champions of Avacal, take now your rightful
places in our court.
Elders of Avacal Ceremony
(conducted only if the Champions stepping down are not
already Elders.)
Herald: Will ALL Past Champions please present themselves
before this Court. (ensure that those who have just stepped down as champion
come forward as well)
(all Past Champions gather and comport themselves comfortably)
Prince/Princess: Good Gentles, there are those amongst
us who have stood for Avacal and yet are not received with the respect
of Elder. Is it your wish to witness an new joining to your rank?
(the gathered Elders give a rousing positive response)
Prince/Princess: Milord/Milady We thank your taking up
Championship on behalf of Us and this Principality. For this effort, you
may now style yourself an Elder of Avacal. As an Elder you are asked to
continue to act in the best interests of Avacal; advising Us and our Heirs,
and sharing your counsel with those less experienced. Your doing so will
enrich all our future days. Will you accept from Us this honor and responsibility?
(New Elders respond as they wish)
Herald: Three cheers for the new Elder.
Change of Principality Office
(If outgoing officer is present and the Royalty wishes,
then he is called forward.)
Herald: ________, _______ of Avacal has business before
this court.
(Officer comes forward.)
Officer: Your Highnesses, it is my wish to resign my office
as ________ of Avacal.
(If there is regalia involved:)
Herald: As sign of your wish, return now the symbols of
your office unto their Highnesses.
(Regalia is handed over)
Prince or Princess: We thank you for your service to the
Principality and People of Avacal
(Old officer leaves. Herald solicits cheers.)
(Start from here if outgoing officer is not present)
Herald: ________, present yourself before their highnesses.
(New officer comes and kneels.)
Herald: ________, their Highnesses have chosen you to
take up the office of ________. Are you prepared to undertake the responsibilities
of that office and swear an oath of Fealty to their Highnesses?
Officer: I am
Herald: Do you now swear fealty to ________ and ________,
your undoubted Prince and Princess, that you will faithfully discharge
your office, dealing courteously with those of every degree and that you
will obey them in all lawful and just commands in all matters that concern
this realm, so long as Their Highnesses remain Prince and Princess of Avacal?
Swearer: I so swear
Prince or Princess: And we for our part, do swear to this
our ________ and to those who serve under him/her, that we shall do all
in our power to protect and defend you so long as we remain Prince and
Princess of Avacal. So say We ________, Prince of Avacal; So say We ________,
Princess of Avacal.
(Again if there is regalia:)
Princess: Then take from our hands the symbol(s) of your
office.
Prince: henceforth you are ________ of the Principality
of Avacal
(Herald Solicits cheers.)
Generic Oath of Fealty
(more specific ones will be entered as needed or incorporated
into the appropriate ceremony)
Herald: Do you now swear fealty to ________ and ________,
your undoubted Prince and Princess, that you will support and defend them
in your hearts and in your homes and that you will obey them in all lawful
and just commands in all matters that concern this realm, so long as Their
Highnesses remain Prince and Princess of Avacal?
Swearer: I so swear
Prince or Princess: And we for our part, do swear that
we shall do all in our power to protect and defend you, and to rule justly,
so long as we remain Prince and Princess of Avacal. So say We ________,
Prince of Avacal; So say We ________, Princess of Avacal.
Princesses Guard
Herald: ________ [and ________...] present yourselves
before your Princess.
(called people come forward before the Princess)
Princess: Because of your chivalry, honor, courage and
skill, it is My wish to appoint you as (a) Member(s) of the Princesses
Guard. Do you consent to this position and responsibility to serve as my
Guard?
Guard: I do.
Herald: Are you prepared to swear fealty unto her highness.
Guard: I am.
(Guards come forward and a suitable object is presented
on which to swear)
Herald: Do you swear to attend, aid and guard the princess,
to advise the princess on the affairs of rapier fighting in Avacal, and
to support and defend the Coronet of Avacal?
Guard: I so swear.
Princess: I hear your oath and swear to you that I will
defend and protect you in times of peace and in times of war. I will aid
and assist you, my guard, in all matters that affect your duty to the principality
and to the Coronet. This I so swear __________ princess of Avacal.
Award of Arms
People of Avacal, your words have told us of one deserving
of recognition. Therefore, We, ________ and _______, Prince and Princess
of Avacal, in accordance with the will of their Majesties, ________ and
________, see fit to bestow upon our subject, ________ an Award of Arms.
Consult the heralds and devise suitable and unique arms.
This We say and do by Our hand and seal, set this ________ day of ________,
Anno Societatis ________.
(Alternate openings could be)
-
Proclaim these words throughout this land and know that ________
and _______, Prince and Princess of Avacal,...
-
To all present bear witness that We, ________ and _______,
Prince and Princess of Avacal,...
-
By the speaking of these words, let it be known throughout
Avacal that We, ________ and _______, Prince and Princess of Avacal,...
Gilded Griffin
Let it be known throughout the land that ________ has
served our realm most outstandingly. Through their untiring service, they
have changed the face of Avacal for the better and brought the Principality
much glory and honor.
Thus We, ________ , Prince of Avacal and ________ and
Princess of Avacal are minded to elevate them to the Order of the Gilded
Griffin.
To this We set our hand and Great Seal this ________ day
of ________, Anno Societatis ________.
Griffin's Flame
________, your accomplishments in the Arts and Sciences
shine upon this Principality, like a fire in the darkness. Thus We, ________
and ________, Prince and Princess of Avacal are minded to recognize your
talents by elevating you to the order of the Griffin's Flame.
To this We set Our hand and Great Seal, this ________
day of ________, Anno Societatis ________.
Golden Oak
All know that ________ and ________, Prince and Princess
of Avacal, in their wisdom and grace proclaim throughout the land this
gentle, whose strength and heart, and whose kindness and smile, and whose
chivalry and courtesy shines forth in Avacal. Therefore we do honour her
with the Golden Oak that all may know his/her acts deserve our thanks and
praise. ________, from this day onward is a member of the Order of the
Golden Oak.
Done by our hand and seal, this ________ day of ________
in the ________ year of the Society.
Griffin of Avacal
Glorious is
the Gryphon, a blend of the Lion's bravery and nobility and
the Eagle's grace and intelligence. The
people of Avacal all strive towards these
qualities and yet, there are those who stand as exceptional among their brethren. Nobles who serve tirelessly season
after season, who carry our wordfame beyond our
borders and who encourage us by their example.
For representing that which is best in our
Principality, We ________ & ________, do name ________ Gryphon
of Avacal. Done this ________ day of ________ Anno Societatis ________.
