Thunderhead
Thunderhead, the Great Axe
Thunderhead is the oldest piece of regalia in the Kingdom of the Outlands.
It was forged by Master Zoltan Kovacs (modernly known as Kirby Wise) during the first reign of Prince Gunwaldt and has been carried by every Prince and King of the Outlands since. Thunderhead is deeply woven into the ceremonial and symbolic traditions of the kingdom.
Description
Thunderhead is a broad-bladed ceremonial axe crafted of blue steel with inlaid brass. Its design is both functional and striking, bearing a powerful presence in court.
- Blade length: 13 inches (from haft to edge)
- Cutting edge height: 10.5 inches
- Narrowest blade width: 3 inches
- Inscription: Runes etched into the blade read: “I am Thunderhead.”
Ceremonial Role
Thunderhead is central to the Coronation traditions of the Outlands and represents the Order of Chivalry in the presentation of the peerages.
Coronation Ceremony
Thunderhead follows a symbolic journey through several hands during Coronation:
1. With the Outgoing Warlord After the business of the retiring monarchs and the release of their retinue (except the Warlord and Champions), Thunderhead is held by the Warlord and presented as part of the regalia handoff, alongside the Scepters, Signet Rings, Great Seal, Lightning, the White Scarf, and the Sharparrow glove.
2. Given to the King The Warlord is called before Their Majesties. After words of thanks and farewell from the King, the Warlord presents Thunderhead to the Sovereign.
- WARLORD: [offers remarks and presents Thunderhead]
3. Entrusted to the Chivalry The King then entrusts Thunderhead to a representative of the Order of Chivalry with the following words:
We do entrust into your noble hands Thunderhead The Great Axe, ancient symbol of the Outlands. Guard him well, as you have ever guarded our traditions and lore, that you may deliver him into the hands of our rightful heirs that they may use him to maintain the rights and prerogatives of the Outlands.
4. Carried by the New Warlord After the new Warlord is named, Thunderhead is reappointed:
Your skill at arms has won you a place at Our side Our Warlord. It would please Us for you to carry Thunderhead in Our court.
5. Presentation by the Chivalry Finally, a member of the Chivalry presents Thunderhead to the new Sovereign:
I give into Your Majesty’s royal hands Thunderhead, Which has been held by every King and by every Prince of the Outlands, back unto the ancient days. The traditions of the Outlands live in Thunderhead, but not there alone, for Your Majesties have those among you whose tongues can speak the ancient lore of the Outlands. May you proudly maintain the best traditions of the Outlands, to take an honored place in the history of this ancient land.
Thunderhead is often referred to in ceremony as:
- “The Voice of Tradition and mighty in Lore.”
The King is charged to:
- “Honour this Axe as you Honour the counsel of those who are steeped in the traditions of the Outlands.”