At the Summer Hunt In the Canton of
Inbhir na Dá Abhann, the ladies there assembled did, with much grace, kindness, and good
cheer, assent to offer their protection to the White Stag should he return from the woods
he then entered. Woods filled with experienced hunters and bold dogs.
And with much courage they did fulfill that offer, for the hunters'
blood was hot from a long chase and, when the White Stag was finally trapped at the edge
of the woods, the hunters were determined to end the stag's running and thereby the day's
hunt. But by interposing their own bodies in protection of the White Stag, and with well
worded entreaties, they made good their pledge and the hunters gave way.
There are no words to express the humility and pride that follows being
shown such favor by ladies of such grace and nobility. And so the White Stag seeks to show
his gratitude with deeds rather than words. In honor of the ladies who protected him, he
offers single combat to all who may hear of this Challenge.
Item ~ Whereas two certain weapons have been known since ancient times
as being the least capable of offering deceit, and therefor the most capable of bringing
honor - it is with either of these weapons that the combat may be fought. These two being
the single sword, whether broad or short; and the spear, whatever its length.
Item ~ This Challenge shall hold until and including the day of the
next Summer Hunt, in such places and times as the White Stag may appear - of which no one
may say in advance.
Item ~ To those who are victorious will be gifted a basket of fresh
fruit - in symbol of the bounty that noble ladies bring to our lands.
Item ~ To those who yield shall be given this task - that they shall
stand before feast or court and speak of one who has inspired them to greater honor and
glory. And so, by honoring one lady, they shall honor all, and further prove their own
courage and courtesy. This to be done as soon as may be after the combat, and in any case,
within a month and a day therefrom.
Let none hesitate to accept this challenge for fear of public speech,
for Her Excellency and the fine Ladies of that day have assured all nobles of arms that
should it be their task to speak - they will be judged not so much on their skill with
words but above all on the sincerity of their thoughts and the courage of their speech.
And let none undertake this combat in vain glory or for their own ends.
But only to bring right recognition to one who has inspired them and to show honor to the
Ladies of the Hunt.
