Gemma Grant continues her series on Irish Myths and Legends

 

Maol Fothartaig, was a son any father would be proud of. He fulfilled his father’s expectations in every way, and King Ronan of Leinster, could not have asked for a better son and heir.
Maol grew up at court, versed in the ways of hunting, gaming and battle. He had an entourage of followers. Genuinely liked and respected by the people of Leinster.

His reputation as a sportsman saw him involved in many games, followed by his many admirers both on and off the sports field. His fine, good looks and manly physique, never left him short of female followers.
Maol’s mother, Eithne, died leaving his father Ronan lonely and Maol believed, in need of a new wife. King Ronan was advised by his counsellors that King Eochaidh of Ulster had a young daughter of rare beauty.

Ronan discussed this potential marriage with his son Maol. “I would prefer, father,” Maol said, “if you would marry a woman of more mature years. Eochaidh’s daughter is much too young and immature for you. She is even younger than my wife. You will have little to talk about with one so young.”
“My son. As always I listen carefully to your advice. I have not said yes to the marriage,” Ronan replied. “I shall travel North and stay for a while with King Eochaidh. That will give me plenty of time to consider if she will be a suitable bride for me.”
“That is wise father. I know you shall make the right decision, once you have had a chance to spend time with her family and judge the young maiden for yourself,” Maol replied.

The king set forth for the Ulster province, escorted by his warriors and advisers. His son, he left in charge of his province, confident that his kingdom would never be in better hands.

Ronan was graciously received at the court of King Eochaidh. All due comfort was offered by his host. At the banquet that evening, Ronan was introduced to the young girl he was considering marrying. She was young, he told himself, and he thought, a little on the giddy side.

Ronan convinced himself, that with time she would mature, for on first seeing her, he had fallen in love with her beauty. All through the meal, she cast coy glances in his direction. Her hair was the colour of the corn and her eyes the bluest of blue. King Ronan was captivated by her and he had no intentions of leaving without her.

The marriage was arranged with her parents’ consent and King Ronan returned to his palace, with his intended in tow.

Continue reading in this week’s Ireland’s Own