Welsh Tales from the Mabinogion:
The Tale of Pwyll, Prince of Dyfed

Once upon a time, in the magical land of Dyfed, there lived a noble prince named Pwyll. Pwyll was a brave and wise ruler, loved by his people for his fairness and kindness. He often ventured into the forests and hills of his kingdom, enjoying the beauty and peace of his land.

One day, while hunting with his loyal hounds, Pwyll came across a mysterious clearing in the forest. There, he saw a majestic stag, unlike any he had ever seen. Pwyll commanded his hounds to chase the stag, but as they pursued, they encountered another pack of hounds, pure white with red ears. These hounds belonged to Arawn, the King of Annwn, the Otherworld.

Curious and intrigued, Pwyll followed the white hounds and soon found himself face to face with Arawn. Arawn was a powerful and wise king, and he proposed a unique challenge to Pwyll. Arawn asked Pwyll to switch places with him for a year and a day. Pwyll would rule Annwn, while Arawn would rule Dyfed. This exchange would help Arawn defeat his enemy, Hafgan, who threatened his kingdom.

Pwyll agreed to the challenge. Arawn gave him his appearance, and they exchanged roles. Pwyll traveled to Annwn and ruled wisely, earning the respect and admiration of Arawn's people. At the end of the year, Pwyll faced Hafgan in a fierce battle. Using Arawn's strength and his own wisdom, Pwyll defeated Hafgan, ensuring peace for Annwn.

When the year and a day were over, Pwyll and Arawn met again and reverted to their true forms. Arawn was grateful for Pwyll's help and gifted him with treasures and the title "Pwyll Pen Annwn," meaning "Pwyll, Head of Annwn." They became lifelong friends, and Pwyll returned to Dyfed with newfound wisdom and honor.

Back in Dyfed, Pwyll resumed his duties as prince. One day, while walking near the magical Gorsedd Arberth hill, Pwyll saw a beautiful maiden riding a majestic white horse. She moved so gracefully that it seemed she was gliding over the ground. This enchanting maiden was Rhiannon, a woman of great beauty and wisdom.

Pwyll was captivated by Rhiannon and approached her. Rhiannon revealed that she had chosen Pwyll as her true love, even though she was promised to another man, Gwawl, who was deceitful and cruel. Determined to win her heart, Pwyll devised a clever plan to outwit Gwawl.

With Rhiannon's guidance, Pwyll hosted a grand feast and invited Gwawl. During the feast, Pwyll presented Gwawl with a magical bag that could never be filled. When Gwawl stepped into the bag to prove it could be filled, Pwyll quickly tied it shut, trapping Gwawl inside. He then demanded that Gwawl relinquish his claim to Rhiannon in exchange for his freedom. Gwawl, having no choice, agreed.

With Gwawl out of the way, Pwyll and Rhiannon were free to marry. Their wedding was a grand celebration, attended by people from both Dyfed and Annwn. Pwyll and Rhiannon ruled together, bringing prosperity and happiness to their lands.

Their love story continued to inspire their people, and they were blessed with a son named Pryderi, who would grow up to be a brave and noble prince. Pwyll's adventures and his union with Rhiannon became legendary tales, reminding everyone of the power of courage, wisdom, and true love.

The End