The Jarda

It was the summer of 2011 and me and Anitheya were attending the Visby medieval week - a wonderful journey and cherished memory. Being sent into a different world of living to experience history of ages past.

In between all the fine activities, we naturally were looking around for ways to expand our selection of arms and armour, and maybe sought an upgrade or two... Being warriors in life, our soul and will is what make our hearts brave, but our gear may be the difference between victory and defeat.

We were going from merchant to merchant, trying to assess who was the more knowledgeable and trusty - and who had the better wares. After trying several decent blades, there came a chance to look at one of the better swords available on the market.

The sword beckoned to be swung, to be tested and tried for balance and strength. For the second time in my life I had the honour of sensing a blade that was more than a rough rod of steel (yet the other swords would be considered decent by laymen). This sword, this Jarda as it was called, spoke to me and demanded to join me, to serve as my sentinel and guardian in battle.

So it happened that trades were made and this Jarda accompanied us home, along with another magnificient blade for my Lady - one that sought her attention!

As soon as chance came the Jarda was put through tests in practice and battle, proving a valuable companion that was both fast and durable. But it didn't take long before the sword lost the leather covering its handle. It was almost as if the blade answered the call of duty and opened itself to be shaped by its wielder.

Months passed and plans were made, all in due time as things should be. The handle must be remade!

First the thought of making it as it used to be, in leather. The thought was quick to go as the sword wished otherwise.

Wires of stainless steel and brass were twined, but they broke - the Jarda was sceptic to the golden tone of brass - "too brittle" it sensed, and the stainless is "too springy in the hand".

The strength of steel and malleable copper was combined, and met with approval. A soft touch, but firm and decidedly so. Strong and tough, so to outlast the opponent. Suitably heavy too, for a handle, the blade agreed and felt as light as a feather in the hand, but powerful and dangerous.

For a blade like Jarda sings in the fight and always beckons for pressing on. It doesn't bow down, unless only to rise point first to face the opponent.

Battles will come and go, but I and the Jarda will fight on. With hands on the Jarda and my back to Anitheya's and her blade Violla, I swear there is no-one or anything that will cripple us or take us down. The fight will always go on, but we are ready.