The following is a simplified list of some of our rules and traditions to help others understand us better and make their visit to our camp less perilous. The Orkney Way is that of the Warrior and partier, living SCA life to it's fullest.

Strength Rules
The Orkney way is founded upon Strength and Courage. But it is Strength of Body and Mind which allows us to preserve our way. Our Warrior Aspect sets us apart from all other groups, we revel in the glory of crushing our opponents. Only by remaining Strong will we weather the trials of Time.

Everyone fights, no one Quits
If you are a fighter with the unit, member or FNG, you are expected to fight every battle, every day unless you are physically incapable. Illness, drinking too heavily, or simply being a pansy will net you the "beer bitch" position for the night. You will also earn this position for missing a battle. The "beer bitch" is required to fetch beer, drink, or soda for all camp fighters for the ENTIRE evening.

Fighters have say
The existence of the War Unit is for the fighters. Those who do battle have the only direct influence upon the unit, camp, or our ways. Others may provide input, but the decisions will be made by the warriors of the group. While this may not seem very politically correct, many war units have fallen from greatness due to excessive control by non fighting factions within. The Orkneys will never fall to this.

No Singing
The title is somewhat misleading. Song, poetry, and Performance of only the utmost quality and appeal is allowed within the confines of our camp. Generally "bard" equals "pansy" to us. They usually represent someone who does not fight and most lack the ability to carry a tune. Those who have performed very well and appealed to our warrior nature have been rewarded with the camaraderie known to very, very few. Failure to please us warrants at the minimum ridicule and expulsion, and most often time to contemplate your failure on the Tree of Woe.

No Cloven Fruit
The Cloven fruit and other SCA type traditions which make it easier for geeks to approach the ladies are FORBIDDEN within our camp. We are highly protective of our ladies and will respond very negatively to anyone trying to interfere in personal relationships. Letches will not be tolerated. Even though only Fighters have say, the ladies of the encampment are very precious to us. Disrespect them or us and you shall know our Wrath.

Sanctuary
The Orkney Encampment is to be a Sanctuary from the "Freakshow" often found at events. The SCA attracts all types, from all walks of life, from the noble to the depraved. There are many within the SCA that view events as an opportunity to engage in immoral or unethical behavior which is otherwise unacceptable in the "real world". Activities such as underage drinking/relations, "wife-swapping", "cheating", and public acts of True lewd or perverse nature are unacceptable. Not only does it detract from the noble nature of our gathering but is often dishonorable in nature. While we Joke constantly in a very rude and brutal manner they are just that, jokes. Honor is of Prime value to our Warriors and one's honor or dishonor is shared with the others. Be Pure, Be Vigilant, Behave!!!

Gauntlet
Those seeking admittance into our ranks must run the "Gauntlet" to achieve full membership. This means fighting all members, consecutively with no rest break, from the newest to the leadership. Victory by the defender means they may allow the challenger to advance to the next fight or reject the challenger until a later date. Victory by the challenger means that there is no vote and he/she automatically moves to the next bout. Only after the final bout with the Dominus ending in victory or acceptance will the challenger be called Orkney.

Overthrow
It is the right and duty of an Orkney warrior to stand up for what he feels is right. If the leadership of the unit is failing it is the right of the warriors to issue a challenge. If challenged the Dominus must field his loyal Orkneys versus the Challengers. The battle is to be a bridge battle, winner takes the leadership. This tradition keeps the leadership in check as they do not oppress or abuse the Unit and will always allow the strong to usurp a weak command. The challengers, if defeated, cannot challenge again for 6 months.

I am The Law
The Dominus' word is law, he can supercede or change any rule at any time. It is only in this absolute power that he can command the respect and response required for Victory. Absolute power can corrupt and that is why there is the Overthrow rule above.

Long Live the Fighters!!!