|
|
|
|
Stories,
Myths & Legends
Conall Avenges
the Death of Cúchulainn
|
|
There was a pact between Conall
Cernach and Cúchulainn regarding the matter of their deaths it was agreed
that whoever survived the other would avenge his death.
Therefore when
Cúchulainn was slain on the Plain of Muirthemne by Lugaid Mac Cúroi it fell to
Conall to avenge his death.
So Conall rode south on his horse 'Dewy-Red' to the banks of
the river Liffey where he came upon Lugaid bathing in the river. Lugaid did not
really want to fight Conall but was compelled by the other warrior to do his
duty.
Lugaid's right hand had been cut off by the sword of Cúchulainn as
it fell from his hand in death, so he asked Conall if he would be honourable and
fight with just one hand also.
This Conall agreed to do and they fought
for two days but neither gained precedence over the other, then on the third
day, Conall's horse 'Dewy-Red' went over to Lugaid and took a bite out of his
side. 'That is not honourable conduct' said Lugaid, to which Conall
replied 'I gave my own word of honour but I cannot be held accountable for the
actions of savage beasts and senseless beings!'
'Now I know that you will not leave this place until you have
my head as payment for my taking of the head of Cúchulainn, so take it then in
addition to your own and add my realm to your realm, and my valour to your
valour, for I prefer that you should be the best hero in Erin.' said Lugaid.
Then Conall the Victorious cut off the head of Lugaid at a place called Ferta Lugdach,
and he took it with him to Emain Macha, but there was no triumphal parades or festivities
as all were in mourning for the hero Cúchulainn.
top
© Shee-Eire:
|
