Erinland by Kathryn Berryman

Author:Kathryn Berryman [Berryman, Kathryn]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Kathryn Berryman
Published: 2017-01-23T23:00:00+00:00

The villagers made a path for Tadhg and the musicians. They came to the front of the cleared area. The musicians and Sam finished their song and bowed to Amy.

Tadhg spoke to the gathering, ‘I give thanks to the goddess Brigid for reviving me and saving me from the land of the walking shadows. I offer her the ‘musical branch’, which is a portal to the other world. The branch is magical and only she knows how to use it,’ he said.

Tadhg placed the branch in Amy’s arms. The villagers erupted into cheers, waving the straw crosses above their heads excitedly. Tadhg held up his hand for silence. Then he spoke again, ‘The afternoon is growing old. Let us continue the ritual. Come, my goddess Brigid.’

He motioned Amy to stand in the middle of the clearing. From the gate Tadhg carefully picked up the blue woollen cloak. He tenderly placed it around Amy’s shoulders. He put the wreath upon her head. Then he picked up the straw hoop. He held it above his head.

‘Brothers and sisters of the fort and our brothers and sisters of Éire, we welcome the presence of our goddess. The four crosses of the goddess Brigid symbolise the kingdoms of Éire. Let us unite in prayer.’

The villagers bowed their heads and waited for Tadhg to continue. Tadhg chanted:

Spring has come and the days grow longer,

The lark and the blackbird sing their song,

Making land fertile which once was all barren,

Brave warriors’ war cries grow ever stronger.

We of the west from Connaught and Aran,

We of the north, the home of the Shannon,

Leinster and Munster march under their banner,

We are united when the spring bells gong.

For beyond our walls the Raiders will plunder,

Wreaking death to those who stand,

United as brothers we’ll battle together,

And Brigid will lead us into the throng!

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