I have thought long about your request for help regarding our Barony’s history. I think one of the brightest spots on our constellation was Count Sir Reynard the Brown. He and his Lady Wife, Countess Brunhyldr, were shining examples of what true chivalry and courtesy mean. In the short time that I really knew them, before they moved away to pursue other goals, they showed me nothing nut the highest dignity and respect.
On several occasions, I personally saw the Count take a young fighter aside after a less than stellar authorization fight and explain; gently, courteously, and with great compassion why the authorization was not successful and offer to help the person train to overcome whatever problem had been found. At least once, I saw him bring someone who was at the brink of tears from the frustration back to a smiling countenance and probably saved that person’s SCA persona from the trash. I received the same gentle, honest and helpful treatment when I first tried to authorize in Sword and Shield. I was not ready, His Excellency explained why, and helped me work out how to best overcome my lack of experience and training.
Count Sir Reynard is one of my favorite nobles of the SCA in its entirety and a very warm memory of the Barony of North Woods.
Forester Padraig MacRaighne