Manaraefan

Well, I made it back from the Manaraefan training weekend alive and in one piece. Damn that was fun.

Nick and I both passed our basic combat and formation assessments, so we're now allowed to fight on the battlefield for the entertainment of the general public. It also means we can train and test for other qualifications like advanced combat and display fighting.

We were originally supposed to be camping outdoors in the same grounds we were training in. Fortunately, we were able to avoid getting frosty and wet by the utilisation of some low cunning combined with asking the right questions.

There was a fair number of people from several different Vike* groups to meet. Everyone was friendly and welcoming. On the first night, we played cards with a group of guys wearing impressive beards and packing even more impressive chainmail. By morning there were new faces in every direction. I don't think anybody could miss Cornelius the German. Someone told me he was the King's Champion for almost every weapon in the Vike arsenal; that's bloody impressive!

It seems that virtually everyone drinks mead and listens to Metal, neither of which would be in my list of hobbies and interests; but they're also interested in history and discussion. And, of course, beating each other senseless with weapons from the dark ages.

I'm stiff and aching in lots of places, but it's that kind of stiffness that you really don't mind because it means you know you've really done something. After seven hours of fighting, formations, and training, my left arm felt as though it could drop off. I guess I'll hit the weights a little more often than before, although I doubt combat at shows will last anywhere near seven hours.

There is a Living History Fair this coming weekend where I can buy the belts, shoes, and other paraphernalia required to make an authentic-looking costume. You never know, I might even go crazy and get myself a weapon.

I can hardly wait for the public shows and events to start. I think that the first one will be at Corfe Castle in Dorset. I've been told that it's one of the most popular events within the society because the castle is such a nice grounds to work in, and the village is so cooperative.

*"The Vikings" is often shortened to just "The Vike", although I think it may be spelled "Vik"