Welsh Tales from the Mabinogion:
The Tale of Rhiannon

Once upon a time, in the mystical lands of Dyfed and Annwn, there lived a beautiful and wise maiden named Rhiannon. I am Rhiannon, and this is the story of my adventures, my love for Pwyll, and the challenges we faced together.

I was born with a special connection to the magical realms, and from a young age, I knew my destiny was intertwined with the world beyond. My beauty and grace were known throughout the lands, and many sought my hand in marriage. However, my heart longed for a love that was true and pure.

One day, I rode my majestic white horse through the enchanting hills of Dyfed, seeking solace and clarity. As I glided over the ground, I saw a handsome prince named Pwyll. There was something different about him; he was kind, brave, and had a noble heart. I felt an immediate connection and knew he was the one I had been searching for.

Pwyll approached me with respect and curiosity. We talked, and I revealed my feelings to him. I also told him about my predicament. I was promised to a deceitful and cruel man named Gwawl, but my heart belonged to Pwyll. Determined to be together, we devised a clever plan to outwit Gwawl.

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 me in exchange for his freedom. Gwawl, having no choice, agreed.

With Gwawl out of the way, Pwyll and I were free to marry. Our wedding was a joyous occasion, celebrated by people from both Dyfed and Annwn. We ruled together, bringing prosperity and happiness to our lands. Our love story became legendary, reminding everyone of the power of courage, wisdom, and true love.

However, our journey was not without challenges. Soon after our marriage, we faced a great sorrow. Our firstborn son, Pryderi, disappeared mysteriously on the night of his birth. The nurses who were supposed to care for him fell asleep, and when they woke, he was gone. Fearing punishment, they concocted a cruel lie, claiming I was a witch who devoured my own child.

Heartbroken and unjustly accused, I was sentenced to stand at the castle gate for seven years, offering to carry visitors on my back like a horse. Despite the humiliation, I endured the punishment with grace, hoping that one day the truth would be revealed and my son would be found.

Years passed, and my prayers were finally answered. A kind farmer found a child abandoned in his stable, cared for him, and named him Gwri. When the child showed remarkable growth and intelligence, the farmer brought him to our court. I immediately recognized the boy as my lost son, Pryderi. The truth of my innocence was revealed, and I was reunited with my beloved child.

With Pryderi’s return, our family was whole again. Pwyll and I continued to rule Dyfed with wisdom and compassion, teaching Pryderi the values of courage and integrity. Our love story and the trials we overcame became a beacon of hope and inspiration for our people.

And so, our tale lived on, a testament to the strength of true love and the enduring power of truth and justice.

The End