Thing was called to council Prince men and women wise, well-skilled at William's need to choose an heir in honor and law to lead the Mists Strength he must have to turn back foes in times of war to furrow fields in times of peace Wrestling would prove this right to rule Pit one to other until one stands but strength will die in sickness fade no skill in that to defeat one when thousand wait Skill is needed to judge the land where enemies may ready war or build your craft to teach to others A foot race would this swift decide to cross terrain, to judge, to choose the safest path but shows no wit when spell or trap may catch or kill and wise men best this problem solve Wit is wanted when unknown fate or trickster sprite tries our soverign that he may solve and save his lands The riddle-trial to test resolve and patience prove but not all men with wit and mind have toungue to speak with edda's words and swords are sharp cleave books in two for strength 'gainst wit proves fierce and fast. A day and night in council sat until with dawn the answer found Trial by combat each man to man prove skill to skill strength against strength and wit to wit thus all men must test their worth to wear coronet. And many did come to ancient field where giants stood. The crowning place of Beltaine kings The north gods watched; the clouds darkened with thunderous fight; and each by each defeated all they left the field 'til two, then one stood alone there and he comes now to claim his own.
Written for Mists Spring Investiture:
"Chad, the Lord of the Mists, called me about a week before Investiture with an idea; and since I hadn't any luck with a poem, I said I would try. He wanted a piece that centered not so much on the people who were to step up, but more on why the tournament was fought. Namely: why do we choose our princes by tournament. He also wanted to have a Viking theme to it. Fortunately, I knew a "thing" or three ..." -- Margrethe Astrid Ravn
The West Kingdom History Website was created by and is maintained by Hirsch von Henford (mka Ken Mayer).