The Vipers Command Tent.

It seemed fitting to take a trip down to the Vipers early on the final day of the moot and draw the vipers distinctive command tent. Conventional architecture may suggest the taller and gated structure is more fitting for the centre point of the camp but the Vipers will always seem do things their own way. The distinctive form holds a presence and uniqueness too.

The Cold Morning Stroll.

After the bitter cold of the night I wandered down into Lecce with the frost clinging to my winter boots. I was eager to put pen to paper after my winter studies had taken precedent over my traveling and sketching time. On my way toward to ritual circle I noticed a small fortified building, no windows were evident, only a stout door and low battlements set against the near by trees. It seemed a fitting first image to sketch and luckily the rising sun quickly gained strength brushing away the frosts and making my stay a more congenial affair.

Das Shoppe Part 2

My final wander of the gathering took me up to the Vipers Camp. Das Shoppe had replaced their distinctive old tent with a new marquee and it stood proudly by the entrance to the faction. I was made welcome and encouraged to sit where I felt happiest to sketch. For an hour I enjoyed the bright sunshine and banter with those tending das shoppe, those calling in and those passing by. I am always glad of some encouragement and a chance to chat, the Vipers of all ages who stopped by were not in short supply and I am grateful.

As I finished up and said farewell I could see a battle raging in the market place, I picked up my pace and headed for the Healers Guild to grab a sash before dashing into the melee to do what I could.

Das Shoppe

My duties on the Saturday of the Spring Moot took me to the camps of many factions as I accompanied Master Healer Raven Fire. One camp was that of the Viper Faction and I enjoyed shelter from the weather beneath the canvas as issues were discussed and resolved. Outside, close to the gate of the Vipers was Das Shoppe, a twin poled tent carrying flags above the canvas roof. Chairs and tables lay outside of the entrance providing a welcome rest for the travelers who called by.

My urge was to reach for my pen and sketchbook, but discussions and intent listening was needed, not to mention I would have had to rudely turn my back our hosts to turn my attention fully to the tent. Needless to say it was my first port of call on Sunday morning to put the scene within my mind to the paper of the sketchbook.