The Servant Rides Out into the Thunderstorm
The Legends Reborn
When the servant heard Queen Macha’s urgent command, he grew impatient with the maiden’s delay. He mounted a fine steed in her stead and rode out from the stronghold into the rain. He followed the narrow trail that ran along the cliff edge of the headland.
Among the tales of the hidden folk are those who ride out in storm and darkness to aid the households they serve. Yet the Great Headland was no gentle ground. Its roaring streams could engulf all in their ways.
Once he had passed the lower reaches, he turned north, following the course of a river usually serene and clear. Now it ran swollen and restless. He rode beside it into a tightening glen until he came upon a makeshift bridge. Frail and perilous, It swayed above the gushing flood. He guided the steed with care, urging it gently across.
In the hinterland stood a small dwelling where an old woman, long practised in herbcraft, kept her watch. The hour had come – she had made ready what was needed. When the servant arrived, she wasted no words. She mounted behind him and together they rode back towards the headland through storm and darkness.
Macha, near spent, looked up at their coming. The wise woman set to her work at once. With steady hands and quiet words she brought the child safely forth and placed him in his mother’s arms.
Thus was born Ruadhán, youngest of Macha’s sons.
The queen held him close for a time before her strength gave way. Around them the household stirred with quiet relief for both mother and child had endured.
