Adrian Empire SAMPLE KNIGHTING CEREMONIES User Manual

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The Adrian Empire, Inc.

KNIGHTING CEREMONIES

of the Adrian Empire

as compiled by the Church of Adria

October 2002

Anyone is welcome to point out any error or omission that they may find.

Church of Adria churchof adria@adrianempire.org

Empress empress@adrianempire.org Emperor emperor@adrianempire.org

Handbook of Ceremonies: Preface Page 2 of 18 September 2002

ABLE OF CONTENTS

Preface................................................................................................................................................................ 3

Some History into the Chivalry................................................................................................................. 3

Knighthood in Adria…..............................................................................................................................3

I. Oaths...............................................................................................................................................................4

A. The Oath of Sir Michael Sinestro..................................................................................................... 4

Crown/Bishop's Part......................................................................................................................... 4

B. The Oath of Sir Gregoire d’Avallon.................................................................................................4

C. The Oath of Sir Nigel the Byzantine................................................................................................ 5

Crown response................................................................................................................................5

II. Ceremonies................................................................................................................................................6

A. The Knighting of Maedb Hawkins of the Drakonja.........................................................................6

The Ceremony..................................................................................................................................6

B. The Knighting of Nigel the Byzantine .............................................................................................8

The Vigil .......................................................................................................................................... 8

Part the First: The Introduction of the Candidate........................................................................... 11

Part the Second: Statement of the Legal Requirements................................................................. 12

Part the Third: Speaking the Qualifications................................................................................... 12

Part the Fourth: Vestment of the Regalia....................................................................................... 13

Part the Fifth: Swearing the Oath................................................................................................... 13

Part the Sixth: The Accolade and the Collée.................................................................................. 14

C. The Knighting of Gregoire d'Avallon ............................................................................................ 15

The Ceremony................................................................................................................................15

In Closing.......................................................................................................................................17

D. The 3rd Level Knighting of Willow de Rara..................................................................................17

The Ceremony................................................................................................................................17

Handbook of Ceremonies: Preface Page 3 of 18 September 2002

REFACE

The scripts provided herein are intended to inspire, to provide guidance in planning future ceremonies, and to record some of the more splendid ceremonies of the past.

OME HISTORY INTO THE CHIVALRY

In the Ceremony used for bestowing knighthood the Church, through the blessing of the sword, and by the virtue of this blessing, Knighthood took upon a somewhat Religious tone. Adding to this in a large part were the Crusades when large Christian Armies were sent forth in the name of the Church for a “Sacred” and “Holy” Purpose.

The Church also took an opportunity to exact and demand a religious vow for the blessing. This Vow required that these newly named “Knights” were to use their weapons and martial skills chiefly for the protection of the weak and defenseless, giving special attention to the welfare of women, children and of course the Church itself.

Chivalry, as the Church now made such, depended now on this sacred vow. These vows raised the status of the soldier in the eyes of the Church as well as society as a whole. Soldiers who took such a vow, were gifted a special ceremonial blessing called in the Pontificale Romanum, "Benedictio novi militis."

In the beginning of the tradition such was very simple though as time passed it grew in complexity. Before the actual blessing of the sword, many things were required of the aspirant knight before such could occur however.

These included a confession, a vigil of prayer, fasting, a symbolical bath, and investiture with a white robe which symbolized the noble cause the knight would set him to. The ceremony would take place with the aspirant kneeling before the clergy accepting the sword and being touched with on the head and shoulders swearing unto God and St George; the Patron Saint of Chivalry. Thus the Aspirant becomes a Knight before the eyes of the Church.

NIGHTHOOD IN ADRIA

The aspect of Chivalry within Adria is a very important aspect of our organization. That being said each ceremony is personal to the individual taking this step. What follows are selected ceremonies to give the aspirant Knight a place to start as they work on their own Special ceremony.

As always the Church of Adria will do its best to assist the individual both in the writing of their ceremonies as well as help in conducting such.

Yours in service, Frere Auberon Dela’Reve Scribe of the Church of Adria Penned this day the 3rd day of September 2002

…

Handbook of Ceremonies: I. Oaths Page 4 of 18 September 2002

I. O

ATHS

A. T

Here do I swear by Mouth, Heart, Hand, and Blade To shine as a lamp of chivalry unto all the populace of Adria, and to all who may take an interest in our game, that the game may continue to grow; To impart my knowledge of my crafts to all who wish to learn from me, that they main attain to their knightly estates; To provide any information about the game that is asked of me, or, if I do not know the answer, to find someone who does; To cheerfully and graciously accept instruction and correction from all who would teach me, especially my brother knights, that I may not bring dishonor to the institution of knighthood; To defend the Empire of Adria, the Kingdom of <name>, and the populace from all threats, whether arising from within or without; And to keep and defend the faith of the Church of Adria. All this do I swear, Sir Michael Sinestro.

For our part we do swear To respect and uphold your rights as a member of the chivalry To learn from you what you have to teach us, and to teach you what you desire to learn from us To instruct you, by word and by our own example, in your duties as a member of the chivalry To correct you, when necessary, in a manner that preserves your honor and dignity And to always conduct ourselves with honor and chivalry, that you may follow our example. All this do we swear <name>.

HE OATH OF SIR MICHAEL SINESTRO

ROWN/BISHOP'S PART

B. T

Upon these holy relics, and before God, my King and the assembled nobility I swear to be a good and true knight, to uphold the chivalry, its honours rights and privileges, to uphold the laws of the Empire and of my kingdom, to remain faithful to my sworn word, to hate evil and love good, to temper justice with mercy, to defend the weak, this I swear upon my honour, Gregoire d’Avallon, Baron Glendoren.

HE OATH OF SIR GREGOIRE D’AVALLON

Handbook of Ceremonies: I. Oaths Page 5 of 18 September 2002

C. T

Here do I reaffirm my oath of fealty and service To the Crown and Empire of Adria And I do hereby swear By mouth and hand To be a good and worthy Knight To be a Lamp of Chivalry unto the Populace To be ever courteous and reverent To seek excellence in all my endeavours To be courageous and faithful To be always loyal and true To temper justice with mercy To defend my Crown and my liege To be temperate and humble To shelter the weak To help the needy To champion the right And uphold the good To teach what I know To learn what I can To be true to my Faith And to be faithful to my duties All this in each area of my life. So swear I, Nigel the Byzantine

HE OATH OF SIR NIGEL THE BYZANTINE

ROWN RESPONSE

This we do hear and shall never forget nor fail to reward that which is given: fealty with love, service with honour, and oath-breaking with vengeance.

Handbook of Ceremonies: Ceremonies Page 6 of 18 September 2002

II. C

A. T

Time and location Items used:

• Sword (held by HRM of Esperance)

• Roses (held by the lady Eslin)

• Cloak (carried by Jamie the Red)

• Blue belt (carried by Lord Rabbit)

People who were present:

• Dame Roselyn Pendragon, Queen of

• Minister of Rolls

• Steward

• Chancellor

• Sir Coda von Seiken, Baron Rosethorne

• Eslin MacCoda de Glendorren

• Dame Katherine Marshal of London,

• Jamie the Red, HMS Hedgehog Battle

• Dame Willow de Rara, Queen Mother of

EREMONIES

HE KNIGHTING OF MAEDB HAWKINS OF THE DRAKONJA

: July, 1998

• Blue veil (carried by Jestar)

• Lantern (carried carried by Sir James)

• A pair of shoes (carried by Sir Jehan)

• Lord Rabbit, HMS Hedgehog Protocol

Esperance

Empress of Adria

Captain

Esperance

Captain

• Rahja Ahmina bint Husam of Basir, HMS

Hedgehog Quarter Mistress

• Captain Jestar, HMS Hedgehog ranking

Protocol Captain

• Dame Aleta O’Berry, Comtessa of

Esperance

• Sir James of Bloodstone, Baron

Bloodstone

• Lady Marion Duriel

• Sir Jehan von Hapsburg (Emperor of

Adria)

HE CEREMONY

Maedb approached the crowd of people, and waited as a path was cleared for her. She approached the Queen, who was waiting patiently for her, with the King ever at her side. She walked forward alone, knowing that when all is said and done, it is her actions and hers alone that will define the path she is about to take. She was barefoot because she has not yet filled the shoes she will need on this path. She am wearing only a chemise, because she is as a newborn on this chosen quest, and to remind her of the humility she will need to carry with her. Her chemise is bright red, as a symbol of the blood she is willing to shed in the name of chivalry. Without a word, she kneels and bows her head. Sir Coda is holding a sword and lowers it. His new bride, Eslin is holding several yellow roses and she places them over the sword. The dying light of the sunset is caught by the sword and reflected onto the flowers, making them glow with a life of their own. Maedb puts her hands on the sword and roses. Her Royal Majesty administers the oath that will declare Maedb a knight. They both say what is needed. When it is done, Maedb rises and faces the circle.

The Empress of Adria, Katherine Marshal of London, approaches with hms Hedgehog Battle Captain Jamie the Red. Her Imperial Majesty takes a cloak from the captain and places it on Maedb's shoulders.

Dame Katherine

that you may find the strength to stand alone and thereby revel in the want of companionship and not the need. May your acts of chivalry be the warmth for others colder than yourself.

The Queen Mother of Esperance, Dame Willow de Rara, approaches with hms Hedgehog Protocol Captain, Lord Rabbit. Dame Willow takes a blue belt from Rabbit and places it around Maedb's waist.

: I take this cloak from a man who has sworn always to be by your side. I place it on you so

Handbook of Ceremonies: Ceremonies Page 7 of 18 September 2002

DameWillow

: I take this belt from a man who knows the value of that symbol. Its symbolism is so important

to him that it took two years before he could bear the weight of a belt of his own. I place this belt on you as a symbol of your chosen path. May its weight always remind you of its importance.

hms Hedgehog's Quarter Mistress, Rahja Ahmina bint Husam of Basir now approaches with ranking Protocol Captain Jestar, also of the Hedgehog. Rahja takes a blue veil from Captain Jestar and covers Maedb's head.

Rahja

: I take this veil from a man who embodies humility. He is always working towards his chosen goals,

yet how many people are aware of it? I place this veil on your head as a reminder to do the same. May your actions always speak louder than your words.

Comtessa Dame Aleta O'Berry steps forward with Sir James of Bloodstone. (Dame Aleta miraculously left her sickbed and was present in the guise of a blue and white porcelain cow, speaking through the voice of His Imperial Majesty Sir Jehan von Hapsburg). Dame Aleta takes a lantern from Sir James (who dabbed his eyes) and hands it to Maedb.

Dame Aleta

: I take this lantern from a man who shines with the effort of knighthood. He may sometimes fall

short of his own expectations, but it is never from a lack of trying. I give this lantern to you, in hopes that you will be a lamp of chivalry unto the populace. May you never fall short of your marks for want of effort.

Small blade (carried by Sir Coda) The Queen of Esperance, Dame Roselyn Pendragon, steps forward with Baron Sir Coda at her side. Her

Royal Majesty takes takes a small blade from Sir Coda and places it in Maedb's hand.

HRM

: I take this blade from a man whose actions have always been at the cutting edge of honor in our game.

I give it to you as a symbol of your own actions. May you always remember that a blade has two edges, and can both heal and harm on the same cut.

Lady Marion steps forward at the side of the Emperor of Adria, Sir Jehan Alexandre (etc.). The gracious lady takes a pair of shoes from His Imperial Majesty and places them at Maedb's feet.

Lady Marion

: I take these shoes from a man who walks the path as others can only dream of walking. I give

them to you so that you may go your way in this game with confidence, walking squarely on your path and never losing your way. May you strive always to walk your path surely, knowing that it is impossible to do so.

Maedb now steps back and takes the roses from the lady Eslin, whose face is glowing with the radiance of a newlywed, as well as the last rays of the sun on the painted leaves of her face.

Maedb

(to the populace): I take these roses from a woman whose own beauty, in face, in heart and in soul,

symbolises the inspiration I have received from certain woman in this kingdom. I have been touched by all whom I have played with, but a few are more than special and I wish to acknowledge their influence on me.

Maedb

hands a rose to Dame Roselyn with these words: To you, your Royal Majesty, I thank you for having

been my inspiration for serenity. I have learned from you how to let the little things roll over me.

She hands a rose to Dame Aleta (again in the bovine disguise) with these words: To you, your Grace, I thank

you for having been my inspiration for chivalry. From you I have learned the meaning of honor and goodness. I would not be in this game if it were not for you.

Maedb

now hands a rose to her shocked crewmate, Rahja. To you, my crewmate, I thank you for having been

my inspiration for humor. When I have forgotten how to laugh, you have been there to remind me. I would have forgotten about joy if it were not for you.

After wiping the tears from Rahja's face and giving her a hug,

Maedb

hands a rose to Dame Willow with these words: To you, your Grace, I thank you for having been my inspiration for creativity in this game. You

have taught me much about what is right and good in the arts.

Handbook of Ceremonies: Ceremonies Page 8 of 18 September 2002

Maedb

my inspiration for honesty. You always speak your mind, yet never lose touch with your heart. From you I have learned the difference between a honest woman and a fishwife.

Finally,

thank you for having been my inspiration for eloquence. You often choose to simply affirm what others say, yet when you speak, your words are priceless. You have taught me much about when to speak and when to let others.

As the last of her roses and gratitude is accepted, Maedb again kneels before the King and Queen. The Queen lifts the sword and dubs Maedb a knight of the realm, in the name of the crone, of Saint Brigit of the fae, and of Pope Joan.

B. T

Time and location

Jerusalem & Walter of Pontnoise

Items used:

• Spurs

• Blue belt

• Sword

People who were present:

• Vigil: Celebrant (Nigel)

• Vigil: First Reader

• Vigil: Second Reader

• Crown

• Herald

• Sir François de Coucy

• Emperor (Sir Erick the Aweful)

• Empress (Dame Elisabeth Grey)

• Knight Candidate (Nigel the Byzantine)

• Minister of Rolls

• Sovereign of Arms

• Chancellor

• Steward

• Representative of the Chivalry

now hands a rose to the lady Marian with these words: To you, milady, I thank you for having been

Maedb

HE KNIGHTING OF NIGEL THE BYZANTINE

hands her last rose to Dame Katherine, with these words: To you, your Imperial Majesty, I

: Cathedral Church of Saint Paul 8 April anno domini 2000, Feast of SS. Albert of

• Sword for the oath

• Sword for the dubbing

• Representative of the Estates Minor

• Representative of the Estates Major

• Representative of the Estates Royal

• Representative of the Ladies of the Rose

• Representative of the Church of Adria

• Representative of the Order of the Fleur-

di-Lis

• Person bearing the spurs

• Person bearing the blue belt

• Person bearing the sword

• Dame Katyana

• Sir Gregory of York (coulee)

HE VIGIL

At 8 pm the night before the Knighting is to take place, the Guardians should convey the Candidate to the Cathedral for the Invocation of the Vigil.

The Vigil will commence with the Celebrant standing at the Altar, with everyone seated in the pews. When the Candidate is ready, he will be brought into the Cathedral by his Guardians, and all three shall kneel before the altar.

The Celebrant

divine Majesty, we prostrate ourselves before Thee and invoke with filial trust Thy supreme bounty and mercy. We pray for Thy blessing upon Thy servant here, that Thou might illumine the darkness of his intellect with a ray of Thy heavenly light and inflame his heart with the fire of Thy divine love, that he may contemplate the great virtues and merits of the saints in whose honor he takes his accolade.

: Let us pray. Almighty and eternal God! With lively faith and reverently worshiping Thy

Handbook of Ceremonies: Ceremonies Page 9 of 18 September 2002

Moreover, we beseech Thee to grant graciously, through the merits and intercession of these powerful Holy Guides, the petition which through them we humbly place before Thee, that he may be blessed, and have strength for the Vigil that is to come, devoutly saying, "Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." Vouchsafe graciously to hear it, if it redounds to Thy greater glory and to the salvation of the world. Amen.

O Most Holy Queen, as the Archangel Gabriel beheld thee, a living scroll of Christ which the Spirit had sealed, he cried out to thee: "Hail, vessel of joy, in whom the curse of Eve is lifted!" Thou art the Mother of Our Lord, and the re-creation of Nature. Faithful servant of God and invincible martyr, Saint George; favored by God with the gift of faith, and inflamed with an ardent love of His Son, thou didst fight valiantly against the dragon of pride, falsehood, and deceit. Blessed Archangel, Saint Michael, who doth guard us against the wickedness and snares of the Evil One, thou art the Messenger of Our Lord and His General, and thy name is the battle cry of the Heavenly Host. We fervently implore you as the Holy Guides of your servant here, for the sake Our Lord, to help your servant by your intercession to overcome the temptations that surround him, and to bear bravely the trials that he will face, so that he may enter into his new station with a pure heart and a humble countenance.

Our Lord and our God! We offer up to Thee our petition in union with the bitter passion and death of Jesus Christ, Thy Son, together with the merits of His blessed Mother, Mary, and of all the saints, particularly with those of the Holy Guides in whose honor he takes the Mantle of Knighthood.

Look down upon us, merciful Lord! Grant us Thy grace and Thy love, and graciously hear our prayer. In nómine Patris, et Fílli, et Spirítus Sancti, Amen.

First Reader:

Hear now the words of Saint Louis IX, from a letter to his son. My dearest son, my first

instruction is that you should love your God with all your heart and all your strength. Without this there is no salvation. Keep yourself, my son, from everything that you know displeases God, that is to say, from every mortal sin. You should permit yourself to be tormented by every kind of martyrdom before you would allow yourself to commit a mortal sin.

If God has permitted you to have some trial, bear it willingly and with gratitude, considering that it has happened for your good and that perhaps you well deserved it. If God bestows upon you any kind of prosperity, thank Him humbly and see that you become no worse for it, either though vain pride or anything else, because you ought not to oppose God or offend Him in the matter of His gifts.

Be kindhearted to the poor, the unfortunate and the afflicted. Give them as much help and consolation as you can. Thank God for all the benefits He has bestowed upon you, that you may be worthy to receive greater. Always side with the poor rather than with the rich, until you are certain of the truth.

Second Reader:

Hear now the words of the Apostle Paul, from his first Letter to the Corinthians, chapter 13:

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of Angels, and have not Love, I am become as sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge: and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not Love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not Love, it profiteth me nothing.

Love suffereth long, and is kind: Love envieth not: Love vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth: Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

Love never faileth: but whether there be prophesies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesie in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part, shall be done away.

Handbook of Ceremonies: Ceremonies Page 10 of 18 September 2002

When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly: but then face to face: now I know in part, but then shall I know even as also I am known. And now abideth Faith, Hope, Love, these three, but the greatest of these is Love.

Celebrant:

Let us pray. Ave Maria, gratia plena

Dominus tecum. Benedicta tu et benedictus fructus ventris tui, Jesu. Sancta Maria, Mater Dei, Ora pro nobis peccatoribus Nunc et in ora mortis nostrae.

First Reader:

Hear now the wisdom of Saint Augustine. God bestows more consideration on the purity of

the intention with which our actions are performed than on the actions themselves. I will suggest a means whereby you can praise God all day long, if you wish. Whatever you do, do it well, and you have praised God. This is the business of our life: by labor and prayer to advance in the grace of God, till we come to that height of perfection in which, with clean hearts, we may behold God. God does not command impossibilities, but by commanding admonishes you do what you can and to pray for what you cannot, and aids you that you may be able. Conquer yourself and the world lies at your feet. Amen.

Second Reader

: Hear now the words of the Psalmist. This is the First Psalm. Blessed is the man that walketh

not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scorneful. But his delight is in the Law of the Lord, and in his Law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season, his leaf also shall not wither, and whatsoever he doeth, shall prosper. The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaffe, which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgement, nor sinners in the Congregation of the righteous. For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

Celebrant

: Let us pray. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccáta mundi: miserére nobis.

Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccáta mundi: miserére nobis. Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccáta mundi: nobis pacem. Amen.

First Reader

: Hear now the prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi, in the Canticle of the Sun. Most High

Almighty Good Lord, Yours are praise, glory, honor and all blessings; To You alone! Most High, do they belong, and no man is worthy of speaking Your Name! Be praised, Lord, with all Your creatures, and above all our Brother Sun, who gives us the day by which You light our way, and who is beautiful, radiant and with his great splendor is a symbol to us of You, O Most High! And be praised, Lord, for our Sister Moon and the Stars. You created them in the heavens bright, precious and beautiful! And be praised, Lord, for our Brother the Wind and for the air and the clouds and for fair weather and for all other through which You sustain Your creatures. And be praised, Lord, for our Sister Water, so useful, and humble, and chaste! And be praised, my Lord, for our Brother Fire, through whom You light up the night and who is handsome, joyful, robust, and strong! And be praised, my Lord, for our Sister, Mother Earth, who supports and carries us and produces the diverse fruits and colorful flowers and trees! Praise and bless the Lord and give thanks to Him and serve Him with great humility! Be praised, my Lord, for our Sister, bodily Death from whom no living man can escape! Woe only to those who die in mortal sin; but blessed are those who have done Your most holy will; for the second death can cause them no harm!

Handbook of Ceremonies: Ceremonies Page 11 of 18 September 2002

Second Reader

through 12. Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shal say all manner of evil against you falsely for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: For so persecuted they the Prophets which were before you.

Celebrant

Qui es in coelis, Sanctificetur nomen tuum; Adveniat regnum tuum. Fiat voluntas tua sicut in coelo et in terra. Panem nostrum supersubstantialem da nobis hodiè. Et dimitte nobis debita nostra, Sicut et nos debitoribus nostris. Et ne nos inducas in tentationem; Sed libera nos à malo. Amen.

: Hear now the words of Our Lord, from the Gospel of Matthew, chapter five, verses 3

: Let us pray. Pater noster,

We praise Thee, O Lord, most holy Father, King of heaven and earth; because Thou hast comforted us and brought Thy servant here to Thy holy Knighthood. For Thou art the God of our salvation, even that Salvation which arose from the Holy Sepulchre. The Lord is our strength and our song, and Thou hast become our salvation, and in his Knighthood shall Thy servant become Thy Right Hand; Let the heaven and earth praise Thee, the seas and everything that moves in them. For God will save Zion and build the cities of Judah. That they may dwell there and possess it. Also, the descendants of His servants shall inherit it, and those who love Thy Name shall dwell in it. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. In nómine Patris, et Fílli, et Spirítus Sancti, Amen.

The Vigil is commenced, go in peace.

After the close of the Vigil Invocation, the Candidate will take up his position at the Altar, kneeling over his armor and weapons. Until 10 pm, people may visit him to discuss Knighthood with him, after which he and his two attendants will retire until morning.

At 8:00 the next morning, he and his party will set up a pavilion in the Park, after which more visitations may commence.

ART THE FIRST

The Knighting shall begin at 2:00 in the afternoon. Everyone shall assemble in the Lady Chapel, with the Crowns seated on thrones in front of the Altar. When everyone is assembled and the Candidate is ready, Court shall be opened in the usual way.

Herald:

Your Majesty, His Imperial Highness, Sir François de Coucy, has business before You.

: T

HE INTRODUCTION OF THE CANDIDATE

Crown Sir François

beg to inform you that our numbers are not complete. There is one who by his deeds and his demeanour has the right to a place in our company, a place he has deserved for quite some time.

: Please come forward, Your Highness.

shall come before the Crown, and say: Your Majesty, on behalf of the Chivalry of the Empire, I

Handbook of Ceremonies: Ceremonies Page 12 of 18 September 2002

Crown Herald

Empress and Emperor of Adria, do command the presence of Their servant, Nigel the Byzantine.

Knight Candidate Nigel, accompanied by the Knighting Party and wearing a white robe, shall come forward to the following Boast and kneel before the Thrones:

Herald

Empire as Fleur-de-Lis King of Arms. He is a Baronet in this Empire, a Companion of the Order of the Star of Adria, a holder of the Golden Spoon and the Celestial Raven, and a Paladin of the Orders of Saint Bela and Saint Warhammer. In the Laurel Kingdoms, he holds rank of Lord and the Order of the Golden Trident, and he is Drafn. He comes now before Your Majesties to beg from Your hands the accolade which his peers agree is rightly deserved.

Crown: Nigel

Crown

requirements for elevation be confirmed. Minister of Rolls: Has the Candidate completed all of the required points for the rank of Knight Minister as prescribed by the Estates?

Rolls:

: Then let him come forward. : Their Imperial Majesties, Elisabeth and Erik, by the Grace of God and the Will of the Estates

: Your Majesties, he who comes before You now is Nigel the Byzantine, who serves You and this

Your Lordship, are you prepared to accept the accolade of Knighthood this day?

: I am, Your Majesty.

ART THE SECOND

(to the Minister of Rolls): The Laws of the Adrian Empire require that the Candidate's legal

Yes, Your Majesty.

: S

TATEMENT OF THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Crown SoA: Crown

estate at this time?

Chancellor: Crown Steward:

Crown Representative of the Chivalry

chivalry and reverence of the customs of the Empire.

Representative of the Estates Minor

Candidate's service and fidelity to the Empire.

Representative of the Estates Major

Candidate's prowess and courage.

Representative of the Estates Royal

Candidate's honesty and loyalty.

(to the Sovereign of Arms): Has the Candidate duly registered heraldry as prescribed by the Estates?

Yes, Your Majesty. He bears Purpure, two lions addorsed, tails entwined or.

(to the Chancellor): Is the Candidate under any judicial ban that would prevent the taking of this

No, Your Majesty.

(to the Steward): Has the Candidate paid his taxes according to Our laws?

Yes, Your Majesty.

ART THE THIRD

:Who would speak to the Candidate's qualifications for this Estate?

: S

PEAKING THE QUALIFICATIONS

: I would speak for the Chivalry. Speaker should speak to the Candidate's

: I would speak for the Estates Minor. Speaker should speak to the

: I would speak for the Estates Major. Speaker should speak to the

: I would speak for the Estates Royal. Speaker should speak to the

Representative of the Ladies of the Rose

to the Candidate's courtesy and generosity.

Representative of the Church of Adria

Candidate's faith and humility.

: I would speak for the Ladies of the Rose. Speaker should speak

: I would speak for the Church. Speaker should speak to the

Handbook of Ceremonies: Ceremonies Page 13 of 18 September 2002

Representative of the Order of the Fleur-di-Lis

Candidate's noble demeanor and how he upholds the Traditions.

Crown

A few minutes should be allowed for those who have something nice to say. In the off chance they don't have anything nice to say, the Crown should cut them off. After people have said their peace, the Crown should continue.

Crown:

these noble gentleman and ladies, let the Spurs be brought forward.

While the Spurs are being placed on the Candidate's heels, the

right of a Knight to ride unhindered throughout the land, dispensing justice tempered with mercy, protecting the weak, defending the defenseless, and helping the needy. By wearing the precious Spurs near his feet, the Knights shows his disdain for earthly treasures in favour of spiritual.

One of the people putting the Spurs on the candidate

be hacked from your heels in shame and disgrace.

Once the Spurs are on, the While the Belt is being girded on the Candidate, the

Chivalry. The blue color is symbolic of the Virgin Mary, reminding the Knight to be ever faithful in his duties, to be pure of heart, and to be respectful in his actions. The belt hearkens back to the ancient days of the Order of the Garter, whose motto, "Honi soit qui mal y pense", or "Dishonour on him who thinks ill of it", speaks as a reminder to the Knight to remain ever honourable in his actions and his deeds.

: Is there anyone else who would speak to the qualifications of this Knight Candidate?

ART THE FOURTH

With your fulfillment of the Lawful requirements verified, and your qualifications been spoken to by

: V

ESTMENT OF THE REGALIA

Crown

continues: Let the Belt be brought forward.

: I would speak for the Dream. Speaker should speak to the

Herald

should say as they near completion: May they never

Herald

continues: The Belt respresents the unity of the

continues: The Spurs represent the

The person vesting the Candidate with the Belt

dishonour.

Once the Belt is girded, the While the Sword is being girded on the Candidate, the

right to dispense justice. The double edge of the blade ever reminds the Knight to temper justice with mercy. As the steel of the Sword must be tempered in fire and water, so must the soul of the Knight be tempered by adversity and compassion.

The person vesting the Candidate with the Sword

anger.

ART THE FIFTH

Once the Candidate is fully vested, the Crown shall ask:

Crown: Nigel:

The Crown shall direct the Candidate to place his hands on the Sword. The Herald will administer the Oath (one phrase at a time).

Herald

are encouraged to kneel in support of the Candidate as he swears his Oath.

Upon which sword to you wish to swear your Oath?

Upon the sword of His Imperial Majesty.

: All members of the Chivalry present, including SCA Peers, and all those who aspire to the Chivalry,

Crown

: S

WEARING THE OATH

continues: Let the Sword be brought forward.

should say as they near completion: Choose death before

Herald

should say as he nears completion: Never draw this in

continues: The Sword represents the Knight's

Handbook of Ceremonies: Ceremonies Page 14 of 18 September 2002

(to the Candidate): My Lord, please repeat after me: Here do I reaffirm

My oath of fealty and service To the Crown and Empire of Adria And I do hereby swear By mouth and hand To be a good and worthy Knight To be a Lamp of Chivalry unto the Populace To be ever courteous and reverent To seek excellence in all my endeavours To be courageous and faithful To be always loyal and true To temper justice with mercy To defend my Crown and my liege To be temperate and humble To shelter the weak To help the needy To champion the right And uphold the good To teach what I know To learn what I can To be true to my Faith And to be faithful to my duties All this in each area of my life. So swear I, Nigel the Byzantine

Crown:

service with honour, and oath-breaking with vengeance.

After the Oath is administered, the Crown will commence with the Accolade: With which sword do you wish to be dubbed?

Nigel:

serving.

Dame Katayana, who has been holding her husband's sword, will present it to Her Majesty.

Crown:

and having taken your Oath, I hereby create you a Knight Minister in the name of Saint George, Saint Michael, and Our Lady. Rise, SIR Nigel!

Now that the Knight has risen, the Crown shall ask: Whom do you wish to administer the Collée?

Nigel:

exemplifies all that is Knightly and Chivalrous.

The Knight should be braced for what is to come.

Gregory:

This we do hear and shall never forget nor fail to reward that which is given: fealty with love,

ART THE SIXTH

With the sword of His Highness, Sir Stefan Belski, who was the first Monarch I had the priviledge of

Having fulfilled the requirements, had your qualifications spoken to, been clothed in your vestments,

His Grace, Sir Gregory of York, who is a Knight of my homeland and the man who to me best

Let this be the last blow you take unanswered.

: T

HE ACCOLADE AND THE COLLÉE

Handbook of Ceremonies: Ceremonies Page 15 of 18 September 2002

C. T

Time and location Items used:

• Sword and belt (carried by HG Dame Elspeth O’Neill)

• Spurs (carried by Katherine d’Avallon)

• Casket with relics

People who were present:

• Earl of Lincoln (HG Sir Edward de la Pole)

• Earl of Esperance (HG Sir Galadon Pendragon di Glendoren)

• Earl of Westguard (HG Sir Karl von Katzburg)

• Countess of Lincoln (HG Dame Elspeth O’Neill)

• Katherine d’Avallon

Present are the Earls of Lincoln (HG Sir Edward de la Pole), Esperance (HG Sir Galadon Pendragon di Glendoren), and Westguard (HG Sir Karl von Katzburg).

Lincoln

incomplete for there is one of our number who has not yet taken the belt and sworn the oath. We three believe Gregoire d’Avallon to be ready to take up the office and duties of knight bachelor. Today we remedy this ommision.

HE KNIGHTING OF GREGOIRE D'AVALLON

: Imperial War 2000

HE CEREMONY

(to the populace): The Right and Noble Order of Chivalry of the Kingdom of Esperance is

The Earls call the candidate. Gregoire approaches and kneels, followed by the Countess of Lincoln bearing the sword and belt, and his daughter the demoiselle Katherine d’Avallon bearing the spurs.

Lincoln

upon our oath to be true and correct, let any who know otherwise speak now lest we dishonour the chivalry by admitting one not worthy of the accolade.

Pendragon

any who know differently speak now, lest we dishonour the chivalry by admitting one not worthy of the accolade.

Karl

order of chivalry. Let anyone who knows otherwise speak now lest we dishonour the chivalry by admitting one not worthy of the accolade.

At this point the three Earls and such others as may wish are bid to give advice and counsel to the candidate upon matters of chivalry and honour as they are moved to do. (His Grace the Earl of Lincoln advised the

candidate to continue to act as he had. His Grace, Earl Karl von Katzenberg advised the candidate to listen more and speak less.)

The casket is brought forward and handed to the Earl of Galadon, the Earl holds the casket and the Candidate places his hands upon it.

Lincoln Gregoire

: The candidate has proven his prowess according to the laws and customs of Adria. This we swear

: The candidate is a true and loyal subject of the Adrian Empire, this we swear upon our oath, let

: The candidate has behaved justly, and is without treason or felony that would bar his admittance to the

: Are you prepared to swear the oath?

: I am, Your Grace.

Karl

: Are you prepared to undertake and uphold the rights and duties of the Chivalry?

Gregoire Galadon

: I am, Your Grace.

: Then we bid you swear the oath of knighthood.

Handbook of Ceremonies: Ceremonies Page 16 of 18 September 2002

Gregoire

: Upon these holy relics, and before God, my King and the assembled nobility I swear to be a good

and true knight, to uphold the chivalry, its honours rights and privileges, to uphold the laws of the Empire and of my kingdom, to remain faithful to my sworn word, to hate evil and love good, to temper justice with mercy, to defend the weak, this I swear upon my honour, Gregoire d’Avallon, Baron Glendoren.

Galadon

(dubs the candidate): In the name of God the Merciful, St Michael the Loyal and St George the

valiant I dub thee knight. Arise Sir Knight.

Gregoire Lincoln

joins his hands above his head, and rises.

(belts on the knight’s sword): As this belt surrounds your body, let it ever remind you to allow only

virtue to surround your heart. Remember also that as the sword has two edges, let it remind you that mercy is the companion of justice.

Karl

(buckles on the knight’s spurs): As the spur pricks on the horse to greater speed, lets these spurs drive

you to the path of right and honour, and may they goad you to greater efforts of chivalry.

Galadon

(adminsters the coulee as a blow to the face): That you may better remember this day, and the oath

you swore.

Gregoire resumes his place.

Galadon

: My Lords and Ladies, may we present you Sir Gregoire d’Avallon, our newest knight.

Gregoire kneels while the Countess of Lincoln reads the charge, the words of Anna Villanova.

The Countess of Lincoln

: Thy word must be thy bond, and thou art bound to it as with chains. Let thy words

reflect thy heart, and be not false lest thy lips reveal not thy mind. As ye have said, so shall ye do, though it mean thy life, for sore misery shalt follow thee for the remainder of thy days should thou be forsworn.

Thou must give freely of thy goods and thy service and withhold nought, for in giving shalt thou receive a hundredfold. Bask not before thy hearth while thy brother shivers with the cold without thy door. Sit not at thy board with meat and drink before thee in great store while thy comrade cries out in hunger at thy window. Share thy wealth and thou shalt be rich indeed.

Thou must champion the right and defend the cause of justice from whatever quarter it may come. Turn thy sword even against a lord if his vassal hath a just grievance and turn not a deaf ear to the cause of the lowly for even a fool may speak great wisdom.

Thou must bow thy head in humility though thou be noble, for true nobility is a gift of which thou must prove thyself worthy. Bear thy noble birth as a yoke of responsibility for in thy hands lie the fate of others and their misery the stain upon thine own mantle. Thou must wear thy honor as a blazon upon thy shield. Lift not thy lance nor pull thy sword from its scabbard unless it be to defend the weak or right the wrong. Let not thy heart shrink from championing the cause of the poor and wretched even though it mean thy life, for the more lowly and demeaning the task, the harder shalt thou strive, for therein lies true nobility.

Thou must pledge thy sword and thy life in fealty to thy liege lord and the land of thy birth as thou would the woman who bore thee. Thy liege is thy head, thy homeland is thy heart. Serve them unto thy death and leave no insult unavenged. Thy foe must quail before thy courage and skill. Spring boldly into the fray, unmindful of thy spilt blood. Fight fiercely as the boar, bravely as the lion, and if the fearsome spectre of death come to take thee, embrace him as he were a long-lost friend. Let no task be too simple or too humble for thee. Perform thy duties as a servant, though thou be noble, and let no man suffer through thy sloth and neglect. For if the joint is to be roasted, a hand must turn the spit, be it royal or slave.

Handbook of Ceremonies: Ceremonies Page 17 of 18 September 2002

IN C

LOSING

Thus was I elevated to the right and noble order of Chivalry of the Adrian Empire on the third day of September in the two thousandth year of Our Lord, receiving the accolade form His Grace the Earl Galadon Pendragon di Glendoren, belted by Edward, Earl of Lincoln and spurred by Karl von Katzenberg, Earl of Westgard.

Gregoire d'Avallon, Bachelier

D. T

Time and location Items used:

• Basket

• Bunches of flowers

• Letter from the Steward of Esperance

People who were present:

• Queen of Esperance (HG Dame Maedb Drakonja)

• Patriarch of the Church of Adria (HG Sir Jehan von Hapsburg)

Maedb

long been an important goal for Adrians. Attaining the first level of knighthood is an exciting moment. No matter how much you study, no matter how

long your vigil, you are never quite prepared for that the blue belt means. But you take the accolade and you keep learning.

Second-level knights are a bit readier for what knighthood truly is, at least here in Adria. They are willing teachers, and they have a wealth of knowledge to share.

Third-level knights are a different category altogether. They are few and far between. They are the pinnacle of achievement in Adria, for third-level does not happen overnight. It take years and years of dedication and hard work. They are looked up to, not only for their knowledge, but for their experience. And, by now, for their honor and chivalry (after all, they've had a long, long time to study and practice).

HE 3RD LEVEL KNIGHTING OF WILLOW DE RARA

: Imperial War 2000

• Letter from the Minister of Rolls of

Esperance

• Letter from the Chancellor of Esperance

HE CEREMONY

(to the populace): I take a moment to address you before we begin the ceremony. Knighthood has

In Esperance, we have 180 members. 2, only 2, are third-level knights. And only 1 of those 2 is a knight premier. Today we welcome another into that small club. Dame Willow de Rara, Queen Mother of Esperance, please come forward. <wait for it>

To Willow

To the populace: Populace, I address you again. There is no way that Her Grace, Dame Willow, has achieved

this level of accomplishment without having touched a good many people. I know she has touched mine in a number of ways. I place this flower in the basket as a symbol of that. And I ask of you - if Willow de Rara has touched you, inspired you, affected you - please come forward and add a flower to the basket.

<while the people are filing past> When I was preparing for my first-level ministry knighting, I found myself

thinking of the women who had inspired me and spurred me on (if you will forgive the pun). Her Grace was high on that list. Her Grace was the one who placed the belt around my waist. So I find myself in an odd situation, being the one to knight the person who was so instrumental in my own knighting. But I live to serve, so here we are.

To Willow

presented by Dame Willow> I find these proofs adequate.

: I understand it is your wish to receive the accolade of Knight Premiere. Is this true? <wait for it>

: Do you have with you the necessary proofs as I have requested? <read aloud the documents

Handbook of Ceremonies: Ceremonies Page 18 of 18 September 2002

I believe that swearing your oath as Knight Premier is more appropriate when done upon the lives of the people you have touched. So I ask you if you would be willing to do so? <take the basket of flowers>

Your Grace, please kneel.

To Jehan

: Sir Jehan, as Patriarch of the Church of Adria, would you provide a blessing for this woman?

To Willow

: Do you swear, by mouth and hand, to be a lamp of chivalry unto others, to share your knowledge

and teach others, to give good counsel, to obeys the writs and codicils of the Kingdom and to uphold the bylaws of the Adrian Empire?

<wait for it> For our part do we swear to give you our support, in goods and wisdom to give you our

protection, to be a lamp of Chivalry unto you, to support your causes as our own, and to be a worthy liege lord until we break this bond, death takes me, the world ends, or you shall come unto your own estate. So say I Maedb, queen of Esperance.

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