Welsh Tales from the Mabinogion:
The Tale of the Wise Old Woman and Peredur

In a quiet corner of the magical kingdom, nestled deep within an ancient forest, there lived a wise old woman known as the Lady of the Forest. I am that Lady, and my story is one of guiding a young knight named Peredur, who would become one of the greatest heroes of our time.

My home was a modest, ivy-covered cottage surrounded by towering trees and whispering leaves. I spent my days tending to the herbs and plants that grew around my home, using their powers to heal and help those who found their way to my door. Many came seeking wisdom, but few were as eager and pure-hearted as Peredur.

One day, as I was gathering herbs, I saw a young man approaching through the forest. He was dressed in simple clothes, but his eyes shone with determination and curiosity. I knew immediately that this was Peredur, the son of Evrawc, whose destiny was intertwined with great deeds.

"Greetings, young knight," I said as he drew near. "What brings you to this part of the forest?"

Peredur bowed respectfully. "I seek to become a knight, wise lady. I wish to learn the ways of chivalry and bravery so that I may help those in need and protect the weak."

I nodded, sensing the sincerity in his words. "Come, sit by the fire," I invited, leading him into my cozy cottage. As the fire crackled warmly, I began to teach him the knowledge I had accumulated over many years.

First, I taught Peredur about the importance of compassion and humility. "A true knight," I explained, "must always put the needs of others before his own. Strength and skill are important, but without kindness and a humble heart, they are meaningless."

Peredur listened intently, his eyes never leaving mine. He asked many questions, eager to understand the deeper meaning of chivalry. I showed him how to care for the injured, using the herbs and plants that grew in the forest to create healing potions and salves.

Next, I taught him about patience and perseverance. We spent hours in the forest, tracking animals and learning the ways of the wild. Peredur learned to move silently through the woods, to observe and understand the creatures that lived there. "A knight must be patient," I told him. "Often, the answers we seek come only to those who wait and watch."

One day, as we were walking by a stream, I shared a story with him. "Long ago, there was a knight who sought a magical sword hidden in a cave guarded by a fierce dragon. Many tried to defeat the dragon by force, but they all failed. One knight, however, watched and waited. He observed the dragon's habits and discovered that it left the cave every evening to drink from this very stream. When the dragon was away, the knight entered the cave and retrieved the sword without a fight. Sometimes, wisdom is the greatest weapon."

Peredur smiled, understanding the lesson. He was a quick learner, and his heart was pure. As time passed, I saw him grow not only in skill but in character. He became more thoughtful, more considerate of others.

One evening, as the sun set behind the trees, I knew it was time for Peredur to continue his journey. "You have learned much, Peredur," I said. "But there is still more to discover in the world beyond this forest. Remember the lessons you have learned here and let them guide you."

Peredur nodded, gratitude shining in his eyes. "Thank you, Lady of the Forest. I will never forget your teachings."

And so, Peredur left my cottage, ready to face the challenges ahead with wisdom and courage. I watched him disappear into the forest, knowing that he would become a great knight and that our paths would cross again in stories and legends.

The End