Castle Mudcat

Subject: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:05 PM

As you come through the snowy forest, you see the mighty fortress rising over the hill. At last you have reached Castle Mudcat! You have heard tales of the court here, and of the fearsome snow legions which guard it. THe castle stands tall and proud ahead of you, its four round towers visible in the distance. The sight of the snow throwers on the battlements make you extremely glad that you are not a would-be invader. (Don't worry, Mbo, you and your army get safe passage, too.) Ceasing your admiration of the castle for the moment, you move on...the feast will begin any minute now!
The guards let down the draw bridge and allow you to cross. As you arrive at the massive wooden door, you note the legend inscribed in the stone above it: "Abandon all sanity, ye who enter here!" You open the door, and the sounds of great merriment reach your ears. Songs and stories of love, glory, honor, and the legends of old abound in Castle Mudcat's great hall. On the walls are luxurious tapestries...one of them appears to be of a man playing a possum.
At the center of the room is a great table, adorned with food of all kinds: Roasts of boar and venison, stew of bear, sallat, fresh brown bread, apple cakes, and lemonwhyt are all there for the taking, along with some nice bowls of rare sugared dates. Even the trenchers look good! For drinks, there are mulled apple cider, French wine, and good English ale. A warm fire burns in the huge fireplace behind the table.
As you prepare to sit, a young woman runs up to you: 'tis Lady Caitrin (Also known as the Snow General).
"Welcome to Castle Mudcat!" she says. "'tis my first feast that I've been mistress of, so I'm a tad nervous. Please, have a seat. Take some food and drink!".
Is everything to your liking, milords and ladies of the realm of Mudcat?

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Bert
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:08 PM

Ah! A jug of ale please, Now where did I leave my Lute? Does anyone remember the words to "Gaily the troubador"?

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: T in Oklahoma (Okiemockbird)
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:12 PM

M'lady Caitrin, you look most lovely in that fur-trimmed gown with wide sleeves and low (yet modest) decollatage.

Please direct me to the beef pie, or summon wench or page to bring it hither.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: MMario
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:12 PM

*shiver* the trouble with castles are they tend to be drafty; but this one DOES seem to be snug and cozy. I see there is a large ice rink in the next room.

But what do I hear, over the sounds of Bert's lute? Is that the cry of an IceWolf?

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Llanfair
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:14 PM

Mulled cider for me, please, and can I sit close to the fire, please? the virtual snow is a reality in my own country, and I'm frozen to the bone. Hwyl, Bron.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Allan C.
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:24 PM

Lady Caitrin, this is a fine feast indeed. And the ale is the best in all the land! I do hope you have received the recipe I sent you for planked pheasant. You should have gotten it by now. I sent it by chainmail.

Does anybody know the chords for "Serfer Girl?"

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:24 PM

I'll send the pages for your drinks.
Lord (I've elected to promote you all for the purposes of medieval feasting)Bron, you can certainly sit as near the fire as you'd like, though you'll have the castle cat right under your chair. (Marian thinks the warm fire and possible food droppings are the best possible combination)
Lord MMario, Castle Mudcat is remarkably well insulated, as castles go.
Thank you very much, T. *blushes*

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:27 PM

*laughter* Serfer girl and pheasant by chainmail. How very amusing, Lord Allan. :)

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Llanfair
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:34 PM

No problem with the cat, and it's Lady Bronwen, I'm a girl. (well I was 40 years ago!) I'll have some roast beef, please. It is British, I hope? Yeah, leave the bone on!!! Hwyl, Bron.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Jeri
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:36 PM

Did anyone bring any mead? If not, I'll have some of the the mulled cider. I wonder - if this castle's on the internet, does that make the pages...er, never mind.

I don't know about anyone else, but I plan to check out those faerie mounds out back a little later and see if I can't get an inter-realm jam session going. I hear they're big on Carolan, and I know a few of his tunes...

Subject: Empire building
From: Philippa
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:38 PM

You're not content with a cafe, a tavern and a barn; you have to have a castle

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Bert
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:43 PM

Ah well you see, the CASTLE is built on a Ley Line so it's full of pent up energy.

So now that you're here, turn that spit a little and get that sucking pig cooked a bit more on the other side. And that barrel over in the corner is full of brandy, take a mug and help yourself.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: MMario
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:48 PM

Though I do thank m'lady for the attempted promotion, an english peasant I was borne and an english peasant I shall die. (Besides, everyone knows the lower classes have more fun. AND I get to snitch from the platters while the food is still warm.....) Besides,if I were a lord, I couldn't go hug 'n wrastle that great beastie of an Irish wolfhound o'er there by the fireplace and get him to howl along to "The wolfhound" , now could I? By the by, cook said to tell you he singe'd the swan, an' 'e wants ter know if paycock will suffice?

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Allan C.
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:48 PM

Yep. And someday we are likely to have an inn, a pub, ye publick house, a beergarden, bar and grill, surfside eatery, wine cellar and anything else one could possibly imagine! Why not? ( That's a rhetorical question, BTW)

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: MMario
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 05:51 PM

we already had an oyster-bar....oops! sorry, didn't mean to spill that jellied sturgeon on the cat....but she doesn't really seem to mind it too much....

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 06:00 PM

Ahhh...the warmth from the hearth heateth the very marrow in mine bones. Grammercy, Lady Caitrin, by your gracious leave, I seek rest in reasonable comfort for myself and my merry Mudcatters. My pipers are blowing steam from their drones! Ahhh..food, wine, and "the tables groaned under the merriment upon them" (one of my favorite quotes by Sir Watty Scott)--right heartening fare. I'll not toach the absynthe nor sack tonight--but a cup of hot chocolate would please me truly. My, how the wind howls tonight; I am forced by necessity to don a treble layer of kilts, for the road was hard, and mine moustaches and goatee are lined with rime. Verily, the Sidhe we passed emanated music of which I hath rarely given ear to. I've brought my medieval and renaissance guitar tunes with me, safely entombed in my sporran! Oh! And here be my Imperial guitar carrier! Now, beloved Dauphin, wilt thou please the folk with tender tune upon thy sweet strings? Now how wouldst thou like a pavane with thy sup?

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: skarpi
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 06:07 PM

I think I am goming through the woods, ah there it is, Góðan daginn ég er frá Íslandi og er Víkingur. Get ég fengið einn öllara.

This is Icelandic, Skarpi.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: T in Oklahoma (Okiemockbird)
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 07:56 PM

Ah, excellent pie and ale! Here, lad, lead me to the musicians' gallery....

Nice narrow spiral staircase...My lady Caitlin has put away the rushlights and provided beeswax candles tonight, how delightful...here we are...good view of the hall, but too far away to play anything on single soft instruments. I suppose I should go back down...what's that ? follow you over here ? Well! my lady Caitlin has thoughtfully had a suite of tuning-and-practice rooms built off the musicians' gallery. And there are the back stairs down to the kitchen and hall. I can tune up here before I return to the merriment. Here's a copper for you, lad...what? My lady provides you with bed, board, livery, and a wage and bonuses besides ? so it would offend her if you were to take tips from guests. My lady Caitlin is a wise chatelaine, most cunning of huswifery. I'll be sure to commend you to her.

Now, let's unwrap the old hurdy-gurdy, gittern, and scheitholt, and start warming up...

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mían
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 07:57 PM

my lady caitrín, we bring in our wagon for you and guests: casks of honey mead, barrels of heather ale and great wheels of white and yellow cheese. where be the harper and storyteller?

mían

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 08:09 PM

The players are here! The players are here! Buzz, buzz. Who would here of the exciting tale of the Finn Mac Cumhal and the seven small men?

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 08:36 PM

Mian, how lovely! We at Castle Mudcat are most appreciative!
Nice job with the Hamlet, Mbo. Did you get my Divine Comedy reference in the description? But do tell us your story. When you finish, I'll relate the tale of Castle Mudcat's ghost. (You didn't know there's a ghost? Of course there's a ghost! Every self-respecting castle must have a ghost!)
My dear MMario, I will respect your decision to remain a peasant. It certainly has its advantages. :) And Marian will be most appreciative of any fishy items you wish to bestow upon her. Of course, be prepared to accept her appreciation in the form of the corpses of castle mice.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 08:53 PM

Me and my sister have Hamlet practically memorized, and often make esoteric references to it in public (when setting up the miniature picket fence around our Christmas tree, I said "My fence is rank, and stinks to the heavens...). On with the storytelling! And for this relief much thanks--as for the ghost of Castle Mudcat--HA HA OLD MOLE! Thou art a scholar, Caitrin, speak to it! 'Tis there! 'Tis there! 'Tis gone. Mmm, I'm getting nice and warm! I only wish the ice on this too too sullied flesh would melt. SWEAR!!!!

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 09:05 PM

There are more things on heaven and earth, Mbo, than are dreamt of in your philosophy. :)

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: alison
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 09:21 PM

Great...... I could do with somewhere drafty... it's damn hot today....... (alison glides across the floor in her long green silk dress, and goes to dance barefoot in the snow).......

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: IceWolf
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 09:21 PM

::Awwwwooooooo::

The sonorous howl of the IceWolf reverberates through to the very bones of the ancient castle. The great beast trots into the dining hall and sits down watching the fire, until the hoar-frost melts off his gaunt grey frame.

"Merry Meet! Did someone say something about suckling pig?"

--IceWolf

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 09:33 PM

Wormwood, wormwood. Darn, I don't have the book for reading Finn Mac Cumhal and the seven small men...but I do have the adventure of the Gruff Gillie, a tale which would harrow up thy soul--Let's see: One day the Fianna were sitting around AS USUAL, when they saw a strange man, with a chest as wide as a door, and a pair of big, hairy knees appeared under his tunic; he was widemouthed and gap toothed and his head was as shaggy as a wolf's fell...Big Mick, where are you? I need your help in telling this one!

--Mbo (a fishmonger)

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 09:34 PM

Welcome, IceWolf. You're welcome to all the pig you can eat. Would someone with hands prepare a plate for our canine friend? (No sense in dragging the pig across my clean rushes.)
Lovely dress, alison! And this is a truly nice place to dance in the snow. Just make sure you get some hot cider when you come back in. :)

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 09:35 PM

Fishmonger? Not I, sir!

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 09:39 PM

I wish you were so honest a man!

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 09:52 PM

*smiles* We'd better stop before we get all the way through Act III.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 10:04 PM

Nymph in thy orisons, I could continue all night! Where was I? Oh yes...and the man had a bony old horse...

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Susan A-R
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 10:38 PM

Ah, Thank thee Lady Caitrim for such a fine feast. And what an unusual subtlty, in the shape of a potato, I believe? And the possum done in sugar is most marsupial. Now where didst say the ale and the musicians were? I am for dancing a galliard. No gown for me. I've chosen men's attire, doublet and hose for me.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: IceWolf
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 11:04 PM

Warmed within and without by hot suckling pig and a fire, the great grey wolf addresses the company:

"Hear now the story of the Wolf King and the Truce of the Iron Hills!

When the nights are long and the winds blow cold with the first of the winter snow The wolves come down through the Iron Hills as they have since long ago, For they'd sworn a truce with the valley folk who held their farms below.

At the head of the pack was the old Wolf King, and a gaunt grey wolf was he - Long of fang and thick of coat, with a bright and gleaming e'e, And he led the pack through the Iron Hills and they came down three by three..."

--IceWolf

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Big Mick
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 11:17 PM

The great oaken door flies open and a huge man in a great brat strides across the floor towards the fire. As he takes of the great cape, the light from the fire reflects off the golden hair and the great torc on his neck.......Is it the shade of Finn himself......no, FAIR ONE, it is Big Mick, Slayer of wolves, come to rescue you from the slavering hordes of blaggards that would have their way with you............."What must a warrior of the family of a Noble Chieftain do to get a proper of the vile, black stuff" the giant roars........"And who is the layabout in the blue tights, with the Red L on his..........Oh, never mind, it is lagerphone boy............Come, FAIR ONE, let me show you the wonders of pine boughs in a shaded vale, in the snow.............

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: alison
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 11:20 PM

Lead on mighty lord.......... (nice torc BTW.... *grin*)

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: T in Oklahoma (Okiemockbird)
Date: 14 Dec 99 - 11:58 PM

It's nice and quiet up here in the practice suite off the musicians' gallery. What's this? Someone is coming through my wall. Has my lady Caitrin installed secret passages ? No, wait: my visitor is translucent. It must be one of the castle ghosts. It looks to be the revenant of an acrobat or tumbler lass. It's hard to get a clear look, but she seems to be "wearing" (in her ghostly fashion) a short belted tunic and hose. What's that, lass ? I can barely make out your words in my mind if I concentrate. So, you're not one of the regular castle ghosts, just dropped in for the evening. Well, yes: merrymaking mudcatters are noisy enough to wake the dead...

I'm taking my gittern and going back down to the hall. Float along if you like. Should I introduce you to others ? Will they even be able to see you ?

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Roger ye skiffler
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 04:16 AM

My lords and ladies, might a poor fool crave the warmth of the fire (or at least share the kennel with the wolfhound?)?. I have a cunning plan to entertain the company with a kazoo made from an amusingly deformed turnip I found in the Neil Young Cave for ye terminally foolish.
Shall I start with "San Tintagel Bay Blues" of "Sweet Home Camelot" or "Dust my besom"? RyS

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Ian Stephenson
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 05:48 AM

Ouch...my chainmail vest really chafes since I had it polished...
..a minuet, anyone....

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Larry B.
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 08:01 AM

Certainly, Ian, take all the time you want. I'm a little late in joining the pun, so I'll just step over here and thaw out. Ah! Thank 'ee lass, that coffee is just what I need.

Larry B.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Skipjack
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 08:23 AM

Coffee, Sire? 'Twas ground acorn and moat water!

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: MMario
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 08:36 AM

Where else buy the mudcat could you get a medieval feast, singing, ghosts, a story-telling wolf, and such braw company? Though the wolf has the looks of a kyree about him to me.....

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Roger ye skiffler
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 08:38 AM

Tis right kind of ye to let me share the dogkennel. I know ye were worried about the smell but the dog sayeth he doesn't mind. For your generosity I'll play the utriculus, for which I'll need a whole sheep's head. Leave the eyes in it must seeth us through the evening. Nay, forebeareth from pelting me with bones, unless they still have meat on them.
Verily, I have emptied larger keeps than this
My dressing room is liken unto a garderobe. What? It isthe garderobe? I wondered why everyone pisseth in my tankard
I've a million of 'em my leige lord
Don't clap too loud, it's a very old castle
Exit pursued by bear, dogs, falcons, villeins, guards and lackeys. RyS

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 09:00 AM

My liege lord, and most excellent good friend, Micheal Mhor! How art thou! It is I, Chief Mbo, of the Clan Buidhe Theamhdaigh, and here is my noble host, which are taking their repose by the generous leave of our good Lady Caitrin! I was just telling the story of the Gruff Gillie (and trying hard not to saw the air with my hands thusly) and could use your help in telling the tale. You probably know it more to thy heart than I. Pray, let us look to it, then!

--Mbo (did someone call for the King of Denmark's Galliard?)

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: jeffp
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 09:10 AM

Greetings, Lords and Ladies! I bring kegs of ale to tickle the palate and fill the belly! Fill your tankards and raise a toast to our hostess, the Lady Caitrin. After I've thawed out a bit, I'll go up to the battlements to check the view.

Lady Bronwyn, may I join you and Marian by the fire?

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 09:17 AM

Ahh...the battlements, but beware, 'tis cold, and it is the very hour at which the GHOST is wont to appear! But I'd ask the Lady about the ghost, for their are more tales to tell here than mine own...

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: IceWolf
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 09:33 AM

The great grey wolf's ears flatten and hackles raise as he directs a glare at MMario.

"A 'kyree'? I protest, sirrah! I am no wizard's pet gone amuck in the Pelagir Hills! I have no retractable claws, and I can run down the wind. I am a wolf of the frozen north, born and bred in the Iron Hills. I have fought the isbjorn and won, and wear warrior's scars by right!

Nay, let us ha'e done with insult, and drink this night away in good company instead."

Suiting action to word, the IceWolf drains a tankard of ale in one long swallow. And if you think that's easy, try doing it with no hands!

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: MMario
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 09:40 AM

I do beg pardon, great wolf! But I have been quaffing for some time, and was drunk to start with. My mistake. (and mayhaps THOU can live aft calling a kyree a wizard's pet, but I mislykes my chances should I e're do so...)

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 09:59 AM

As I remember, the Pelargir is the Mouth of the Anduin--a river delta region, with no hills. As for the Iron Hills, I only know of Dain's dwarf folk that reside there. But if you be the one of the great white wolves that crossed the frozen Baranduin River during the Fell Winter, and raised havoc in the Shire, please, Brother Wolf, take pity on a poor cold clan Chief, for I have ne'er harmed one of thy brethren!

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 10:10 AM

Anyone mind if I refinish my targe? But lo! Wherefor art the Lady Limerick? Methinks her company would do right well!

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: MMario
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 10:15 AM

Mbo - we are at the crossroads of worlds here....indeed the kyree inhabit the Pelagir Hills, in at least one world...

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 10:25 AM

Do any of those Sidhes out front lead to this...other world?

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: MMario
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 10:31 AM

Look for large white horses, with blue eyes, and an uncommon manner. They might lead you thither...

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: InOBU
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 10:35 AM

Ah my my my... A cat in the wee castle. Genie and I have to leave the third member of our family behind, Bongo Knock, (a mouse who lives in a six room plastic house known as the Bongorium). Bongo, who s name means broken nose in Romaness (Gypsy), is not nearly as fond of cats as they are of him. In fact, our Bongo is a health food nut, the only one in the family and would not touch the roast beef, though I will- though shouldnt - especially if it is the good old solid English beef (made from good old merry English Mad Cow) and my ould favorite, Yorkshire pud, which I would be there early enough to make... Bongo, who loves Uilleann pipe music, has eclectic tastes, he loves medievil music, so where it not for above said cat, he would enjoy the castle, however, Genie my wife, has caught him on occation watching Clint Eastwood movies - not at all the kind of thing for a well run castle... So, Bongo keeps the home fires burning, while the old Uilleann Pipe case goes over the shoulder, and we make our way through the brack to Castle Mudcat (which I hope fares better than Castle Otway Co. Tip. Ire, - now a ruin like the rest of us Otways -a casualty about 1922)
Save a place by the fire for the piper
Larry Otway

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Roger ye skiffler
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 10:38 AM

Your poor fool here entertaining (?) you with my cap, bells and bladder ( bladder...oooh, back to the garderobe again- well, I'm that age...).
I've just noticed the cask of brandy, it's cold in that dog kennel, do I wait to be offered a sup or is it self SERFice?
Every one a little gem, boys and girls, same jokes, different frocks [Oh my gaaawd, I'm turning into a pantomime dame ]
And now a little ditty: "She was only the farmer's daughter but she left him with a couple of acres".
I'd throw Mars bars off the battlements to the overexited audience but they haven't been invented yet.
What? You'd rather have Blondel [not the failed Tim Rice musical!]? Never been keen on these singer-songwriters myself, where's Allan a' Dale? He'll sing you a song, a merry old song...[poor Elton Hayes impression].
Nurse, the screens.
Back to the Neil Young Cave...
RyS

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Guy Wolff
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 10:47 AM

Oh pray do not kill this humble wolff if I may come in... Years ago I found this story in the deep deep caves of my mind.I was working in Pembrokshire at the time... Once there was a famous musician who went from castle to castle playing to all the best houses...His stringed instroment was ancient and of a beautifull dark ebony.. Finaly our hero got to play for the good King of the land.. Now as we all know the kings castle was white and his banners were white and all the beautifull maidens were in Yes WHITE.. Well our minstle was led before the king and his court to play and as the King looked up he was heard to say ... Hey what is the musicion with the black instroment doing in my court ...Have him be gone...So with a fallen heart our hero was led out of the hall and down the stairs BUT on the stairway was a young lady in waiting up on a step ladder white washing the walls... So what did he say to her??????? Wait for it<<<>>><><><><><><>< He said " Come on baby white my Lyer""

Sorry can I stay anyway...Pugging clay can do something to a poor potter ... All the best Guy

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: IceWolf
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 10:48 AM

"Friend Mbo, the world is a most strange and wondrous place. The Iron Hills I speak of are the domain of the Wolf-folk, in the fair land of Naverone. I speculate that the ley-lines whereon this glorious castle is built have caused worlds to merge, hence the confusion. Friend MMario makes reference to Velgarth, a world once torn by wizard wars."

And (stepping out of character for a moment): If you'd wish to know more of Velgarth, read "Magic's Pawn", "Magic's Promise", and "Magic's Price" by Mercedes Lackey. As for Naverone, it exists in my imagination only, though you may see a glimpse of it here.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Roger ye skiffler
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 10:52 AM

Guy, I wish i had told that one!
[You will, Roger, you will!]
RyS

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mían
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 01:20 PM

I be saving a flask of uisce beatha (water of life) for Big Mick & the Fair One and all who be out for a romp in the snow...

Thanks be to Lord and Lady, the elbow Pipes have arrived, now the dances shall have more spice...

Wolf, I have a home for thee by the fire.

Storyteller, please go on with the tale of Fionn MacChumaill...

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Ian Stephenson
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 03:12 PM

WHY IS IT that when I hath pull-ed this banjo from outeth thiseth rock, it budgeth not? I fear its machine headth are embedded in the magical singing granite.. SWEET ICE MAIDENS, I fear I may have once again embarres'd me-self in front of thy delicate company....."Thou isth wimpyest of all wimps" I hear you quoth, but I have been punished for taking on a task greater than my strength.
WHO DARES pull the banjo from outeth the rock, and who has the almighty strength to be KING OF MUDCAT.
BUT BEWARE! for the goblins are rife with evil spirits of the night.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 04:10 PM

My first feast seems to be coming along nicely. I am most heartened to see such fine merrymaking among my guests here at Castle Mudcat!
IceWolf, MMario, I think that's the one set of books in the Valdemar-related chronicles that I didn't read. The Mage Winds/Storms series was my favorite.
Milord Mbo, your tale was begun first, therefore it must first be finished before the tale of the ghost of Castle Mudcat may be told. 'twould be rude to do otherwise.
Susan, the ale and musicians seem to be gathering by the fire with the cat.
Roger, you may serve yourself or send for a page, as suits you best.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 05:01 PM

Thank you, Lady Caitrin, I will continue. Ah yes, so the man with the hairy knees came walking up with his long, bony ould mare. The man had an iron studded club, and kept beating the horse with it. The horse didn't seem to mind, but as the man laid powerful blow after blow, it made a sound like wind ripping down a sail. And everytime he beat his horse, the Fianna thought he would knock the horse to the ground. As he came closer he bawled "You're Finn Mac Cumhal" to the head of the Fianna. "I want to be part of the Fianna. What will you pay a lad like me?" "Who ARE you?" asked Finn. "I'm known east and west and south and north as the Gruff Gillie, or if you like, the Rough Gillie, or Tough Gillie. I'm called that because I've notions of my own about what to do and no master that I've ever had has been able to change them. And you," he said to Finn and the Fianna, "don't ever try to get me to do things I don't want to do!" "Shall we take the Gruff Gillie for a camp-servant" asked Finn to the Fianna...

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Peter T.
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 05:04 PM

But while the great hall sparkled in merriment, in a high dark tower 2nd right past the donjon (where Don Jon was ensconced with his sconce), a beauteous figure lay in a trance, ensorcelled beneath a glass canopy. On the side table, ancient issues of TEMPORA and ADOLESCENTES HUMANUM yellowed. A flicker of cold wind occasionally swayed the candlelight, revealing a stack of unpaid wax bills, and the dimness was briefly illumined. A watcher would have been startled to see in those brief moments of light, the face of the sleeping lady -- for it was LADY CAITRIN HERSELF!!! And yet indeed there was a watcher there, unstartled, unsmiling, listening in mocking disdain to the rioutous music below. What could this mean? Who wast eh watcher? What was the dark secret of Castle Mudcat? And who was the smiling mine hostess below? Into what trap had they all fallen so easily, drawn as they so often were by cut-price mead and cheap troubadour music?

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: MMario
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 05:12 PM

Peter T....it's not just the cut-price mead and the cheap troubadour music! What kinda fools do you think MudCats are?
(THAT WAS A RHETORICAL QUESTION!! !!)

There's FREE FOOD as well......

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Bert
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 05:17 PM

There was a knight who travelled far and wide across the fair land helping maidens in distress. After helping many such maidens his fortune was at last dissipated and he was forced to sell his trusty steed in order to survive. As he was of small stature he found a replacement for his steed in the form of a large mastiff. He continued his travels mounted upon his new 'steed' and one evening during a heavy storm he arrived at Castle Mudcat seeking shelter from the storm and a place to rest his weary head. The manservant answered the heavy pounding on the door and saw the wretched, soaking wet knight at the door, mounted upon his wretched soaking wet dog. He said "I know you not Sir Knight, I cannot let you enter"
At that very moment Lady Caitrin passed and overhearing the manservant, admonished him with the words...< wait for it >...

"You can't send a knight out on a dog like this"

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Peter T.
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 05:54 PM

Meanwhile, only a few furlongs distant, a gallant prowed boat touched the windswept shore, and three figures leapt out, flung themselves on the beach, and kissed the fair land that they had never expected to see more. They made a great noise in the night, as they were in full armour, and needed to be helped to their feet by their trusty servants. Then they embraced each other in turn, disentangled themselves, and breathed in the fresh air of home. The obvious leader of the trio, armour emblazoned with a strange device -- a circle with a cross subordinate -- pulled out a great broadsword and held it up, so that it caught the moonlight in a slice of silver. "We come to free the Lady Caitrin!!!!" And the other two repeated the solemn oath, that rang through the charmed night.
With that, the powerful knights pulled off their great helms. There were gasps among the servants, none of whom had ever seen the faces of those they served; and now they realized for the first time the heights of the privilege that had been bestowed upon them. For the three were none other than Katlaughing of Wyomingtane, wisest of those who wove the Net of Cyberfate, brown as rope from her years of crusading in farthest Afghanland; Bonnie of Banjo, the Hot Troubadeuse who had once sat at the feet of Fieldyn, Dreamerbard, and learned the dropped unicorn trick that none but he had mastered, and had learned all the quotes of the indefatigable Mbo and could recite the hundred thousand lines of the futile story of Big Mick and the Fair Alysoon, and was all around Top Lute; and, last but not least, Sherry Aims, Crusader Nurse.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: T in Oklahoma (Okiemockbird)
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 08:03 PM

(steps back into the hall through the passage from the back stairs) Hello, Gentlefolk all! More folk have arrived, I see. And it cheers my heart to see a wolf and a wolfhound putting aside their differences and enjoying the fire's warmth.

In case you are wondering, the being floating by my left shoulder is the ghost of the tumbler-lass Matilda Makejoy, the very same Matilda Makejoy who performed for the royal family of England in 1296, 1306, and 1311. You may have to take my word for it that she's here. I'm sure once she is reassured that we are all fellow-minstrels, kindred spirits as it were, she'll allow more of us to see her.

Here, sirrah, you have no minstrel to cheer your supper. Allow me to offer for your delight a song, dedicated to our lovely hostess, the Lady Caitrin.

(sings "Oh Mistress Mine", which can be found in the DT)

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 09:43 PM

Wow, Peter...this is getting interesting.
Greetings, Matilda. I'm sure you'll get along fine with Elinor. (Our official castle ghost.)

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 09:59 PM

**Gets up, smoothes out kilts** What madness has fallen upon us? Ghosts, watchers, evil twins(?!) are making Castle Mudcat a more and more frightening place! It's 'up the sword and down the torches' and let's find out what's going on here! Anyone want to lead a search to discover...the mystery of Castle Mudcat?

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 10:27 PM

I suppose that, as an obviously integral part of the mystery, I'd best come along. After all, I'm the one who has a twin somewhere in the castle and just might be an evil imposter.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: alison
Date: 15 Dec 99 - 11:34 PM

Just remembered I was out dancing barefoot (in only a silk dress)in the snow.... (it's not so warm in Oz today)

the fair alysoon enters the doorway and promptly collapses due to the frost bite in her feet...... "is there a kind knight in here who might carry me closer to the fire, that I might thaw out?"

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Big Mick
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 12:46 AM

Come to me, my FAIR ONE, and hold your tiny, ice cold feet to my breast. For the fire that burns there for you is surely hotter than the flames on the hearth..............hear the ancient rhythms of the drumbeat of my heart............and listen whilst we talk of mighty Finn

The next morning all the Feinians of Erin were going to hunt, as the day before, and Finn said to Gilla na Grakin: "Will you take any man to you?"

"I'll take no man with me but meself: and do let me go in one part of the country alone, and go yourself with all your men in another part".

"Well," said Finn, "will you find dry glens of ridges, or go in deep boggy places where there is a danger of drowning?"

"I will go in deep boggy places."

All left the Castle to hunt. Finn and the Fenians of Erin went in one direction, and Gilla na Grakin in another, and hunted all day.

When they came home that evening Gilla na Grakin had a thousand times more game than Finn and all his men together............

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Big Mick
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 01:02 AM

Are your feet warming, my FAIR ONE? And your heart? Good, then we continue:

When Finn saw this he was glad to have such a good man, and was pleased beyond measure with Gilla na Grakin. The whole company spent that night as they had the night before,......in ease and sport and sleep.

Next day Conan Maol was outside with Finn and he said: "Gilla na Grakin will destroy the Fenians of Erin and put you and all of us to death, unless you banish him in some way from this castle."
"Well," said Finn to Conan Maol, "I've never had a good man gbut you wanted me to put him away. And how could I banish such a man as this if I tried?"

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 01:31 AM

Enter LEJ onto the Battlements in company with Vesuvius and Metatarsal.
LEJ:Tell to me quickly,knave, where saw you this Apparition?
Vesuvius:Twas here,Sire, close by the North Tower.
LEJ:And when saw you this stumbling specter?
Metatarsal:Thrice within the last fortnight,lastly this very Eve, when it did make full circuit of this castle wall, moaning most horribly.
V:In truth,Sire, and it did entreat us to summon you to its presence!
LEJ laughing grimly:Methinks the pair of you have drunk deep and often of Lady Caitrin's meade this Christmas Eve, that you do fashion ghosts from gray shadow, and demons from dim moonlight.Tis folly! I would return to the merriment below,leaving you both to savor the nipping,eager air.turning to Exit
M:But stay,m'Lord! Even now the wraith approaches!
V:And in the likeness of...but it cannot be!

Enter Ghost.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Roger ye skiffler
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 04:14 AM

Bert, you dirty rotten swine, you> I was saving that knight/dog story till later (why do you think I'm sharing the kennel with the wolfhound!)! You'll put a poor fool out of business!
:o(
RyS

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Alan of Australia
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 05:29 AM

Hey, don't tell Big Mick, but while he was away, it being a warm summer day in Oz, there was skinny dipping & nude volleyball at the home of The Bonny Irish Lass. It was great fun.

Cheers,
Alan

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: alison
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 07:27 AM

far be it from me to spoil your story alan... suffice to say .. I CAN explain... but I'm not going to... hahahaha

back to the plot.....

aaaahhhh that's better, my feet are almost back to their usual tepid state... thank you my lord......

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: MMario
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 09:10 AM

God's Teeth! Sire Alan of Oz! Ye canna be lahving us with such a wee lyttle tidbit of a tale! Pray, tell us more!

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Willie-O
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 09:57 AM

Forgive my late appearance on the scene, fair Lady Caitrin. I was entreated by an artisan of some repute, who has only lately returned from the great holiday markets of fabled Tirana The Good, pockets jingling, to construct a byre agin her humble farmhouse deep in the woods of Frontenac, wherein the faggots may be stacked out of the wet snow, to warm their hearth through the coldest months...and entranced by the merry clinking sound, I sez "I'll do it."

So I must not tarry, but shall drink a deep toast of finest virtual uisge, the only vintage that agrees with my tragically jaded palate, to you and all your fine company, and grab a haunch of sumpin to go, and get my ass out in the snow and start flailin about fer filthy lucre. The sun, were it visible, would be more than somewhat over the yardarm.

But e'er I part, anyone seen da capo what I left in the tavern, cantina, or barn?

No matter. Farewell till mayhaps late this eve.

yr humble hewer of trees William of Woodenhead

William

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: jeffp
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 10:35 AM

Peter_T, I fear that da capo may be al fine.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: jeffp
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 10:37 AM

Oops! That was supposed to be addressed to Willie-O. A thousand pardons. *BSIG (Big sheepish ingratiating grin!)*

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 11:02 AM

Pray, sithee, Lord Allan, I would learn more of thy tale ere the eve passeth into the matin. Speak more unto us of thine engagement on the battlements! Dear woodsman Sir William-O-Woodenhead, methinks that thy capo may be discovered in the da capo aria.

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Big Mick
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 11:08 AM

AAAAAAHHHHHH, good lagerphone boy............truly an amateurish attempt, and unworthy of the attention of a warrior such as meself............we all know that THE FAIR ONE is the mother of two lovely wee kids,..........my guess is that is who was nude in the pool. And I really am flattered that you would imitate the multi colored hues in describing our lovely Alison.........

And now, FAIR ONE, have your feet warmed? Then leave them against my chest whilst I continue on with the telling of "Gilla na Grakin and Finn MacCumhail"

--------------------------------------

"The way to banish him," said Conan Maol, "is to send him to the king of Locahlin to take from the pot of plenty that's never without meat, but has always enough in it to feed the whole world, and bring that pot to this castle."

Finn called Gilla na Grakin, and said; "You'll have to go for me now to the king of Lochlin, and get from him the pot of plenty that is never without meat, and bring it here to me."

"Well," said Gilla, "as long as I'm in your service I can't refuse to do your work."

So away went Gilla. He took a glen at a step and a hill at a leap till he came to the shore of the sea, where he caught up two sticks, put one across the other, then gave them a tip of the hand, and a fine vessel rose out of the two pieces of wood.

Gilla na Grakin went on board the vessel, hoisted the sails, and off he went in a straight line. The music he heard on his way was the whistling of eels in the sea and the calling of gulls in the air, till he came under the king's castle in Lochlin. When he came, there were hundreds of ships standing near the shore, and he had to anchor outside them all; then he stepped from ship to ship till he stood on land.

What should there be at the time he landed but a great feast in the castle of teh king. So Gilla went to the front of the castle and stood outside the door; but he could go no further for the crowd, and no one looked at him. At last he shouted: "This is a very hospitable feast, and you are a people of fine manners not to ask a stranger is he hungry or thirsty."

"You are right," said the king, who turned to the people and said: "Give the pot of plenty to the stranger till he eats his fill."

The people obeyed the king, and when gilla na Grakin got hold of the pot he made for the ship, and never stopped until he was onboard. He put the pot in a safe place below. Then Standing on the deck, he said to himself; "It is no use to take the pot by my swiftness unless I take it by my strength." Such is the honor of the Fianna.

So he turned and went to land again. All the heroes and champions of the king of Lochlin and his whole army were ready to fight, but if they were, so was Gilla na Grakin.

When he came up to the army he began, and he went through it as a hawk goes through a flock of swallows, till he made one heap of their heads and another of their weapons. Then he went to the castle, caught the king in one hand and the queen in the other, and putting them under his two arms brought them out in front of the castle and killed each with the other.

All was quiet and still at the castle. There wasn't a man alive to stand up against Gilla na Grakin, who went to his ship, raised the sails, and started for Erin. All he heard was the spouting of the whales, the whistling of eels, the calling of gulls, and the roar of the wind, as the ship rushed back to the place where he had made it in Erin. When he reached that place he gave the ship a tip of his hand, and there before him was the pot of plenty, and with it the two sticks which he had found on the shore of the sea when he was going to the castle of the king of Lochlin.

He left the sticks where he found them, put the pot on his back, and hurried away to the castle of Finn MacCumhail.

Finn and all the Fenians of Erin werfe glad to see Gilla na Grakin, and Finn thanked him for the work he had done.

The first part of that night they spent in ease, the second in sport, the third in hurried sleep.

Next morning they rose and had breakfast from the pot. From that day out they hunted for pleasure alone. They had enough and to spare, from the pot of plenty.

------------------------------------

The giant warrior known as Mícheál Mhor looks about. THE FAIR ONE is tired, and the warriors assembled have clearly drank much from the barrel. He rises, pulls the great Brat over his shoulders, bids THE FAIR ONE a good nights sleep, and begins to leave the hall............The maid inquires to his destination..........The hill, FAIR ONE, to see if the shade of Finn roams tonight. I feel his presence, and would have a word with him. "May I accompany you,?" she asks. "Aye, but a heavy cloak is needed for the night is cold and we will be gone much."............"And what of the rest of the tale of Gilla and Finn?" asked the good Caitrin. "Plenty of nights to tell more" said Mícheál Mhor as he and THE FAIR ONE disappear into the night.............

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: T in Oklahoma (Okiemockbird)
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 11:16 AM

Marian, my fuzzy friend, I see you are showing appropriate feline disdain in the presence of a wolfhound and two wolves (not to mention all the two-leggeds).

For my next number, a French chanson, the ABC to which can be found here.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Bert
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 11:33 AM

And at an old oaken desk in the corner, sits the great sage Bruce O (or should that be Bruce Og?), and by the guttering light of a candle he puts pen to parchment, ignoring the sounds of revelry that surround him, preserving the old songs and tales for posterity. Though his writing gets scrawly in places through dipping his pen in the mead. (with apologies to Stanley Holloway)

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: MMario
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 12:20 PM

Marion certanly should be showing disdain, she's polished off a sturgeon, three fresh trout and most of a smoked salmon!

the wolf and wolff mostly seem to be guzzling, I mean drinking, but the wolfhound is *purring?* ????????

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Peter T.
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 02:17 PM

As they moved towards the castle in the night, the three intrepid warriors hacked their way through interminable thorned woods, hacking and cursing curdled non-violent oaths in several Arab tongues they had learned in their distant travels and travails. Finally, they came to a clearing in the enchanted woods, and in the distance they could see Castle Mudcat, its great hall aglow with revelry and those dangling icelights that everyone seems to have this year. With her usual impetuousity, Katlaughing of Wyomingtane prepared to hurl herself in all directions to save the ensorcelled Lady Caitrin and stop Big Mick going on with more Irish legends, but the restraining hand of Sherry Aims, Crusader Nurse, drew her to one side.
"Look", she whispered, pointing to the curve of a small hill overlooking his castle.
A vast dark shape sat poised in the darkness.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Peter T.
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 02:21 PM

Sorry, overlooking the castle. As Merlin said, Alwaies profrede.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 02:35 PM

Ai! The eagles of the Lords of the West are upon us! Piper! Sound the note of defense--for my heart tells me that something fell is brewing in the cold night air!

--Mbo Rua

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 05:56 PM

Castle Mudcat certainly seems a fine environment for stories...the tales told here are most marvelous!
LEJ, you must continue! And you also, Mick! I have been most fascinated by your weavings of words.
More mead for all, and bring out the fresh food. Such storytelling calls for more merrymaking.
MMario, Marian always shows disdain. She's a cat. It's what they do. :) Especially when they have been well fed.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 06:12 PM

A kitty, eh? Hey there, little fuzzykins! Mind if I scratch your woo? Ye ma me think of mine own kitty-bud Boo. Hmmm...Micheal Mhor's story seems to differ greatly from my version...until this is resolved, does anyone wish to give ear to another of my ramblings, the tale of the handless ghost piper who is can still be heard to play on dark nights like this...

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: T in Oklahoma (Okiemockbird)
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 07:19 PM

While Mbo is readying himself to spin his yarn, here's another love-song for your delight:

Volez vos que je vos chant
un son d'amnors avenant?
Vilain nel fist mie,
ainz le fist un chevalier (but don't hold that against it)
soz l'onbre d'un olivier
entre les braz s'amie

Chemisete avoit de lin
et blank pelicon hermin
et bliaut de soie.
Chauces out de jaglolai
et solers de flors de mai,
estroitement chaucade.

"Li rosignox est mon pere,
qui chante sor la ramee
el plus haut boscage.
La seraine ele est ma mere,
qui chante en la mer salee
el plu haut rivage."

T.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Big Mick
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 07:40 PM

Sweet babe! a golden cradle holds thee,
And soft the sonow-white fleece enfolds thee
In airy bower I'll watch they sleeping,
Where branchy trees tot he breeze are sweeping
Shuheen, sho, lulo lo!

When mothers languish broken-hearted,
When young wives are from husbands parted,
Ah! little think the keeners lonely,
They weep some time-worn fairy only
Shuheen, sho, lulo lo!

Within our magic halls of brightness,
Trips many a foot of snowy whiteness;
Stolen maidens, queens of fairy--
And kings and chiefs a sluagh-shee airy,
Shuheen, sho, lulo lo!

Rest thee, babe! I love thee dearly,
And as they mortal mother nearly;
Ours is the swiftest steed and proudest,
That moves where the tramp of the host is loudest.
Shuheen, sho, lulo lo!

Rest thee, Babe! for soon thy slumbers
Shall flee at the magic Ceól-sidhe*** numbers
Where branchy trees to the breeze are sweeping

Shuheen, sho, lulo lo!

***Ceol sidhe, pronounced roughly koelshie, means fairy music.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 07:58 PM

Well, my goode friends, this tale is absolutely TRUE. It was told to me by a close friend of my Clan Buidhe Theamhdaigh, a fellow Jacobite, viz.--Diarmuid MacDonald, of Clan MacDonald. Here it is:

Back in ye olde days in Alba (also is known to some as Scot-Land) there was a castle (much like this) overlooking a loch (Gan Ainm) that was the residence of a part of the Clan MacDonald. In their service was a piper (Great Hieland, mind ye) who was the official piper of the Castle. He was oft to be found atop the castle, upon the battlement, playing his pipes all alone.

One night, in the pitch blackness, the murderous Clan Campbell (shudder) came up the loch in their boats, landed, and stormed the castle. With much bluidshed on each side, the Campbells managed to take the castle and force the MacDonalds out. The remaining MacDonalds escaped in their own boats--all but one--the piper upon the battlements. He stood there, alone, playing his pipes, which was the last thing the MacDonalds heard as their boats pulled out, swearing to return for their castle.

Well, the Campbells found the piper, and imprisoned him on the battlement, and instructed him not to play his pipes, or he would be subjected to torture. Meanwhile, the Campbell soldiers, instead of moving on to their next attack, they garrisoned the castle with many troops in secret, counting on the MacDonalds to return, so they might wipe them all out.

One day, the piper, from his high vantage point, saw the MacDonald boats coming through the fog to retake their own. The piper knew of the hidden troops, so he disobeyed the Campbells and started to play a air of retreat upon his pipes. His clansmen understood, and turned back, thus avoiding the Campbell ambush prepared for them. However, the Campbells heard him, and for his crime, cut both of his hands off with an axe, to make sure he would never play again...

In that place, since that time, people have claimed to have heard the sound of a solo bagpiper coming down the wind off the loch, when there was no sign of a piper anywhere.

In the 1960's, during a renovation of the castle, the workers came upon a crude grave. Inside was the skeleton of a man with no hands--and cut off cleanly at the wrists. The man was exhumed, and give a proper Christian burial. But still the ghost was heard, playing his lonely tunes...

It was a later realization that the clergyman who performed the funeral service was Presbyterian (as modern Scots go, so I've heard) and of course the Clan MacDonald, as well as Theamhdaigh, were staunchly Catholic. A new Catholic funeral was performed by a priest, and from that day on, the ghost piper has never been heard again...

--Mbo Rua

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Alan of Australia
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 08:19 PM

Dammit, never could pull the wool over Finn's eyes. OK, the kids were the ones having the most fun.

Cheers,
Alan

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Willie-O
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 09:01 PM

Good news for all thou concerned fellow wastrels.

I found da capo at de end of da bar!

W-O-W

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 10:33 PM

Would de end be al fine?

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Willie-O
Date: 16 Dec 99 - 10:42 PM

Whoops! Ya scared me sneakin up like that. Thought everyone here was asleep...all I hear's snoring. What was in that meade?

I must apologize for my feeble jest...sure know how to chill a party...

al fine?
Elphin? Yes its one league to the west at de end of de paved road.

Whatever...great shindig Lady Cait--look around at the Shambles that was once yer immaculate castle.

Wonder what happened to those three intrepid women stomping around in the woods...

I presume you'll be calling a prefessional cleanup crew?

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Roger ye skiffler
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 06:53 AM

Enter poor fool playing "Serfin' Serfari" on an out of tune kazoo..."Merry friends have you heard the rumour that Sir Garth o' the Brook is planning to retire from being a troubador to spend more time with his family and retainers? Was it something I said?"
RyS [now off to what I hope is the final meeting of the institution Y2K committee, chairman retires at the end of the month...hmmm does he know something he's not telling us? Still it's a good excuse to miss the department Xmas lunch, soemone's already been in the office with tinsel in her hair and a set of plastic reindeer antlers! Bah, Humbug! Roger the Scrooge]

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Roger ye skiffler
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 08:31 AM

Back again [Y2K meeting short; everything done & dusted but not sending the minutes out till Jan in case we need to rewrite!] .Met a scrivenor outside who pointed to the device above the gateway about abandoning sanity: he said it has no legal merit, apparently there is no sanity clause.
I also met a sooth sayer who sayeth that in 400 years or so someone called Groucho Marx will still be telling that joke.
(Good to be here in the Middle Ages whe my jokes are only half as old!)
[Just had a glass of something sparkling (the Moroccans do wonders with oil derivatives these days) so I'm ready to headbutt anyone who comes into the office (will anyone notice the difference?)]
There are a lot of men in armour riding deer out there, apparently one is marrying a fair damosel and one of them is a Stag Knight.
RyS

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Big Mick
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 11:42 AM

The tall warrior with the red-gold hair strides into the Great Hall, and finds young Caitrin seated.So, young one, you like the old stories?............It gladdens my heart to know this, for I fear that they will be lost in the clatter of those that would make up new heroes to replace the old. Let me tell you of another of the Fianna, one Conan Mac Morna........it is a good night for a story.......From behind a curtain, out steps Alison, THE FAIR ONE.Come sit with me FAIR ONE, and let us teach this lovely young one of our people.

----------------------------------------

There was once a man called Conan mac Morna. He was big and bald and unwieldy in manly exercises, but his tongue was bitter and scurrilous. No brave deed was done that Conan the Bald did not mock and belittle. It is said that when he was stripped he showed down his back and buttocks a black sheep's fleece instead of a man's skin, and this is the way it came about.

One day when Conan was hunting in the forest along with some other members of the Fianna, they came to a stately dun this is a fort, dear Caitrin)

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Big Mick
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 11:59 AM

The dun was white-walled, with colored thatching on the roof. The men entered it to seek hospitality and found no one there -- only a great, empty hall with pillars of cedar-wood and silken hangings like the hall of a wealthy lord. There was a table set with a sumptuous feast of boar's flesh and venison, red wine, and cups of gold and silver. So they sat down and ate and drank gaily until one of them jumped up to his feet with a cry of fear. The others looked around and saw before their eyes the tapestried walls changing to rough wooden beams and the ceiling to a foul, sooty thatch like that of a herdsman's hut. So they knew they were being entrapped by some enchantment of the Sidhe (the fairy folk).

Everyone sprang to their feet and ran to the door, which was no longer high and stately, but was shrinking to the size of a fox warren. However, Conan the Banld remained; gluttonously devouring the good things on the table, and heeded nothing else. His colleagues shouted to him as the last of them went out. When Conan strove to rise and follow, he found himself limed to the chair so that he could not stir. Two of the Fianna, seeing his plight, rushed back and seized his arms and tugged with all their might. As the men dragged him away they left part of his clothing and his skin sticking to the chair. Then, not knowing what else to do with him in his sore plight, they clapped upon his back the nearest thing they could find, which was the skin of a black sheep that they took from a peasants's flock nearby. The skin grew there and Conan wore it till his death.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Jeri
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 12:50 PM

Wool, I guess ewe could say, he probably lived out his life in shear terror...(sorry-love the stories)

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Clifton53
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 01:01 PM

What Ho! Sir Clifton de Joisey demandeth one of them thar "rare sugared dates".

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: T in Oklahoma (Okiemockbird)
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 01:08 PM

(awakes in one of the rooms in the musicians' practice-suite) Mmphf! What time is it ? Is it day or night ? Time seems to pass strangely in this house.

Matilda ? Are you still there, ghostly lass ? Ah! I can just barely hear your voice in my mind, but I can't see you anymore.

I wonder what's going on outside. Or, is "outside" even a valid concept in this eldritch place ?

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 02:34 PM

**Stepping out of character** Big Mick, I LOVE those old tales...also I like Tuatha De Dannan stories too. Balor of the Evil Eye, The Battle of the White Strand are some of my favorites. I like cool characters like Lughaid's Son, Caoilte, Oisin, Osgar, Diarmuid and THE DAGDA RULES! So tell us more! BTW just to blow me own bagpipes, I just finished my semester at ECU on Wednesday. It's my seventh straight semester of straight A's. **Stepping back into character** Aye, dost thou know of the one about Gavrin (I forget how to spell it in Gaelic!) and his cow?

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 05:01 PM

*stepping out of character* Congratulations, Mbo! *back in character* Milord Mick, I am once again fascinated! I shall surely set forth to learn more of the storytelling you do so well. Many thanks to you for sharing your knowledge. If anyone is still interested, I shall try a bit of a practice with the Tale of the Ghost of Castle Mudcat.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 05:23 PM

Many thanks for the laud! Continue at tht leisure, dear Lady. The porchers of mine ears lie at wait for the sound of thy words!

--Mbo Rua

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Big Mick
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 05:33 PM

Please, Lady Caitrin, we await on baited breath your telling of the Ghost of Mudcat Castle. And then I shall speak of brave Cucúlin..........Come FAIR ONE, rest your tiny, cold feet against me that they may warm, and let us hear Lady Caitrin tell the tale of the Ghost of this fine place................

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From:
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 05:39 PM

TAIN BO! TAIN BO!

--Mbo

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 09:47 PM

The tale of the ghost of Castle Mudcat begins long ago, when Castle Mudcat was first built, by a man called Ian.
Ian was a knight, a brave warrior who had made his fortune in the lists and at war. After spending several years traveling to tournaments, he finally raised enough coin to marry his love, Lady Elinor.
Elinor was a beautiful maid, with fair skin and hair the colour of autumn leaves, and eyes of pure silver. She was known not only for her beauty, though, but for her kindness. Her most marvellous trait, however, was a wonderful voice. She sang all the day, her songs rising from both her work and play. The servants would stop at their work to hear her sing; the knights in the tilting yard would pause to listen. It was said that even animals in the forests would come close just to hear her voice. Her Ian was first enchanted by her voice, and soon came to know that her soul was as pure and wondrous as her songs. Elinor waited faithfully for Ian's return from seeking his fortune, and was overjoyed to receive the news that he was at last coming home. The rest of the castle rejoiced as well, pleased to see that their lady would soon be married.
What Elinor did not know was that others were not so wishful for her happiness.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 09:54 PM

Alack-a-day! Treachery, treachery, I fear!

--Mbo Rua

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 10:00 PM

Sir Ian rode through the woods (the same woods you all walked through to reach this place, though they were larger then), making his way toward the site where he would build his lady's house. Ian had grand plans for a castle that would be both protection and home, a beautiful and mighty fortress. He sang a merry song as he rode, knowing he would soon see his love.
Foul news reached Ian's ears when he arrived at the fair Elinor's manor. She had been kidnapped! No one seemed to know where she had gone; she had last been seen in the gardens, but none had seen her since. Ian searched the area surrounding the manor, praying to find some sign of her. All he found was one of her silver hair ribbons, clinging to a tree branch in the woods.
Meanwhile, Lady Elinor was being held captive by the evil Lord Egbert DeTraci. He was a hideous fiend, black to the core of his being. Lord Egbert was the most treacherous, disgusting, loathsome creature ever to walk the face of the earth. His finest claims to fame were the despoiling of innocents and cruelty to animals. Lord Egbert had kidnapped Lady Elinor purely from spite, for he hated to see anyone feel any measure of joy. However, he soon grew bored with merely having the fair maid held miserably in his manor. He decided it was time to taunt Sir Ian.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 10:45 PM

Sir Ian paced the floors of the manor's great hall. He knew not what to do. he hadn't even an idea of where to look for Lady Elinor. He was certain she was alive; he would know if she were dead. But there was no sign of her anywhere about the manor!
Just as these melancholy thoughts were plaguing Sir Ian, a messenger in black livery arrived at the manor gates. "A message for Sir Ian." said he. "Your Lady is held at Riven Manor; if you wish to see her alive again, you must fetch her yourself. Do not bring any knights with you, or it shall surely go hard with Lady Elinor." Sir Ian was taken with a fearsome rage. He would retrieve his lady from that dog, and Egbert deTraci would rue the day he had been born.
Sir Ian immediately set forth, riding at breakneck pace for Riven Manor. He arrived within a few hours, both knight and horse exhausted. But Ian thought not at all of his tired body; his mind was only for the safe retrieval of Lady Elinor. Sir Ian ran for the massive gates of Riven Manor; strangely,they were immediately opened to him.
Egbert DeTraci was sitting smugly in the great hall. And there, seated by his side, was Lady Elinor. Sir Egbert was whispering something to her, his hand upon her shoulder. "You will return her to me now, you swine!", Sir Ian said menacingly.
"If you ask the lady, Sir Ian, I believe you will find that she does not wish to join you.", Egbert said. "'Tis true, Ian.", Elinor said. "I have no want of you any longer. Egbert is more to my taste. What would I want with a poor knight when I could have a lord?" Sir Ian stared at her in numb shock. What had happened to the lovely maid he knew? "Go away,Ian. Your time is wasted here."
Sir Ian was certain he had been deceived. Lady Elinor had played him for a fool all along. "Good day, Lady. I wish you joy of your choice.", he said bitterly. He turned on his heel and left Riven, heartbroken.
As he left, Lord Egbert laughed a hearty and evil laugh. "The look on his face!" he cackled gleefully. "How marvelous!"
Lady Elinor glared at him. "You are the most hideous of fiends! You are not fit to lick the bottom of Sir Ian's boots! You shall rot in the blackest pit of hell!" Lord Egbert's laughter ceased. He began to smile, the grin of Satan himself. "Ah," he said, "but my fun has just begun. What did you think, that I would let you go? You shall remain here until I grow tired of you." Elinor merely stared determinedly at him. "You cannot win this battle of wills, Elinor. Guards, take her to my chamber!"

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 17 Dec 99 - 11:23 PM

If someone would be so kind as to fetch some cider...my throat, 'tis quite parched from the telling of so long a tale. (And pray, take my apologies if it has run over long...I am but a novice at this art, and my telling is without practice.) But fear not, the conclusion of my tale has come...
Lady Elinor sat in the chamber for a long time. Her brave front collapsed, and the fine lady sat and wept like a babe. She had crushed the heart of her one true love, and now sat in the chamber of her enemy, facing the prospect of being his toy until he was bored with her. And the powers only know what might happen to her then. Elinor contemplated her situation. She would never see her love again, and could not live in dishonor. The fair lady walked over to her window and climbed out of it, walking out onto the wide ledge. She stared out into the sky. But as she looked over the land, a change came over her. Elinor had something to do before her time on this earth could end.
Lady Elinor exited the room and quickly dodged the guards, heading for the stairs. She raced down them, and as she reached the great hall, she grabbed a sword from the wall. Elinor had no idea what strength came to her to do this deed, but come it did. She raised the mighty sword and struck down the drunken evil Lord Egbert before he could even turn about to face her.
At that moment, the guards caught up with her. She was captured quickly, and instantly killed. Elinor died knowing she had revenged herself. But she still had unfinished business. She believed her knight still thought her false.
The story of the brave Lady Elinor's deed spread far and wide, reaching all the way to Sir Ian. He was grief stricken when he realized that he had believed her words, knowing what type of woman she was. He built Castle Mudcat, the home they had planned to share, as her memorial. Those lovely music rooms off to the side of this one were built for her. But Ian could never bring himself to live in the house he had dreamed of sharing with the woman he believed he had betrayed.
Soon after Castle Mudcat's completion, people claimed to hear a beautiful, melancholy song down the halls of Castle Mudcat. Then a few servants said they saw Lady Elinor wandering the castle. She appeared to be looking for someone, they said. Elinor's also been spotted in the music rooms in more recent times, always singing her sad, sad, song, trying to find her Ian.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 18 Dec 99 - 10:27 AM

That was a right good tale thou told, Lady Caitrin. Alas for poor Elinor. Dost thou think she would enjoy a lay or a burden, while she haunts the corridoors and halls in her winding sheet?

--Mbo Rua

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Jeri
Date: 18 Dec 99 - 10:49 AM

If Catspaw were around, you'd be in trouble, Mbo. On with it, man - haven't heard a good lay in ages.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 18 Dec 99 - 11:44 AM

Don't put thy mind in the midden, Lady Jeri. Here be a good lay that I learned from the author, a Sir Ronald Tolkien of Northmoor.

An Elven-made there was of old,
A shining star by day:
Her mantle white was hemmed with gold,
Her shoes of silver-grey.

A star was bound upon her brows,
A light was on her hair
As sun upon the golden boughs
In Lórien the fair.

Her hair was long, her limbs were white,
And fair she was and free;
And in the wind she went as light
As leaf on linden-tree.

Beside the falls of Nimrodel,
By water clear and cool,
Her voice as falling silver fell
Into the shining pool.

Where now she wanders none can tell,
In sunlight or in shade;
For lost of yore was Nimrodel
And in the mountains strayed.

The elven-ship in haven grey
Beneath the mountain-lee
Awaited her for many a day
Beside the roaring sea.

A wind by night in Norhtern lands
Arose and loud it cried,
And drove the ship from elven-strands
Across the streaming tide.

When dawn came dim the land was lost,
The mountains sinking grey
Beyond the heaving waves that tossed
Their plumes of blinding spray.

Amroth beheld the fading shore
Now low beyond the swell,
And cursed the faithless ship that bore
Him far from Nimrodel.

Of old he was an Elven-king,
A lord of tree and glen,
When golden were the boughs in spring
In fair Lothlórien.

From helm to see they saw him leap,
As arrow from the string,
And dive into the water deep,
As mew upon the wing.

The wind was in his flowing hair,
The foam about him shone;
Afar they saw him strong and fair
Go riding like a swan.

But from the west has come no word,
And on the Hither Shore
No tidings Elven-folk have heard
Of Amroth evermore.

--Mbo Ruadh

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Ali_UK
Date: 18 Dec 99 - 12:10 PM

Alistair heres the strain of elven poetry floating through the forest, he follows its eldritch path and is suprised by the cyclopean edifice that is Castle Mudcat. As he has wandered in the wilderness for many, many moons, he is overjoyed to once again find his way back to this Camelot, this eldorado, this valley of the blue moon. Many travails has he passed and illness laid him low. But now he knows he is back amongst the warm friendship of good people. He enters through the castle gates and is greeted by the warmth and music of the main hall. He unslings his harmonica and suts by the roaring fire. His face lights up as he sees his old comrade Big Mick...still lusting after the fair but coquettish Alison.

Alistair draws off a mug of nutty brown ale and relaxes once again. Hi everyone.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 18 Dec 99 - 12:26 PM

Good day, and how is it with you, Sir Ali? Welcome to the Castle Mudcat. Over yonder is the gentle Lady Caitrin, a shanachie of the highest order, and our Hostess. Dost thou love Elven music? Then let our instruments harmoniously blend as we play "Song of the Pookah" or mayhap "The Faerie's Lament"?

--Mbo Ruadh

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Big Mick
Date: 18 Dec 99 - 12:50 PM

The warrior bard arises to greet his long lost comrade, Alistair of the UK. Then he turns to face the assembled warriors...................I would sing to thee of warriors lost, and friends who stand listening beyond the veil, using the words of an unknown bard, who comes to us only in this song............

In a quiet water'd land, a land of roses,
Stands St. Kieran's city fair:
And the warriors of Erin in their famous generations
Slumber there

There beneath the dewy hillside sleep the noblest
Of the clan of Conn,
Each below his stone with name in branching Ogham
and the sacred knot thereon

There they laid to rest the seven Kings of Tara,
There the sons of Cairbré sleep--
Battle-banners of the Gael, that in Kieran's plain of crosses
Now their final hosting keep.

And in Clonmacnois they laid the men of Teffia,
And right many a lord of Breagh;
Deep the sod above Clan Creidé and Clan Conaill,
Kind in hall and fierce in fray
Many and many a son of Conn, the Hundred-Fighter,
In the red earth lies at rest;
Many a blue eye of Clan Colman the turf covers,
Many a swan-white breast.

Micheál Mhor returns to his seat with she of the icy cold feet, and revels with his old friend, Alistair. THE FAIR ONE bids him to tell the tale of the naming of Cuchúlin. He agrees to do so, but first he must take of the mead with his friends in order that he not seem inhospitable..................

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 18 Dec 99 - 01:04 PM

OOH OOH, MICHEAL MHOR! I love that one! I was just telling my family that one! Please, tell us about how Setanta go his name!

--Mbo Ruadh

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: T in Oklahoma (Okiemockbird)
Date: 18 Dec 99 - 01:05 PM

Ho, fellows! Is it time for luncheon ? Have we salmon from the deep ?

Matilda, the ghostly saltatrix, has gone somewhere on a ghostly errand, so if you think you see a ghostly presence by my shoulder, it is not she, it is too much drink in yourself!

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 19 Dec 99 - 02:12 PM

Is the merrymaking over?

--Mbo Ruadh

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 19 Dec 99 - 02:31 PM

It would seem that feasting has tired our company. Perhaps removal to another place is in order?

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 19 Dec 99 - 05:06 PM

Well, if everyone is going, my men and I shall take our leave, for we have many miles before us, and glorious conquests unknown await us! Up, Clan Buide Theamhdaigh! Piper, sound the tune "The Theamhdaigh Highlanders Farewell to Castle Mudcat." Claymores sheathed, targes up, and in file...yes, all is in order. My Lady Caitrin, thou hast been a most kind and generous (not to mention entertaining) hostess. May I be so bold as to kiss thy hand? Then, away, my brave boys! Out into the snows, me boys, and until we meet again, my lords and ladies...SLAINTE!!

--Mbo Ruadh

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Willie-O
Date: 19 Dec 99 - 05:31 PM

Well, there's a schooner just lately been sighted heading southeast out of the Bay of Fundy....mayhaps its worth catching...off to sea once more?

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Caitrin
Date: 19 Dec 99 - 06:52 PM

To sea, perchance to dream! Or something like that.

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Mbo
Date: 19 Dec 99 - 06:58 PM

But oh, what dreams may come?

--Mbo Ruadh (**as he nips out the drawbridge**)

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: T in Oklahoma (Okiemockbird)
Date: 19 Dec 99 - 07:24 PM

My Lady gives me the impression that I can stay as long as I like, just so I don't get fresh with the wenches and stay out of the castle staff's way as they clear away from the banquet, send for the privy-cleaners, and see to the other chores of shutting up a castle for a time.

I so wanted to play "Lamento di Tristano" on my hurdy-gurdy. I think I'll go up the the musicians' gallery and play it there. Even if there is no one to hear but the two ghosts, Matilda and Elinor, still, I so enjoy playing it...

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Big Mick
Date: 20 Dec 99 - 02:06 AM

The revels came to a stop as one by one the warriors, the ladies, one and all watched as the giant warrior bard rose and stood facing the fire. He was lost in thought as he recalled the old days, and the old ways. Some say he speaks through the veil. He turns and looks at no one, and says "It is a long night, and the veil is thin"....."Aye" they muttered as the old ritual begins. It is almost a litany. Aye, it is a dark night and I feel the presence of our people on the other side.........begging that they be remembered, if only in a story.............................

It chance one day, when Setanta was about seven years, that he heard some of the people of his mother's house talking about King Conchubar's court at Emain Macha, and of the sons of kings and nobles that lived there, and that spent a great part of their time at games and at hurling. "Let me go and play with them there," he said to his mother. "It is too soom for you to do that, " she said, "but wait till such time as you are able to taravel so far, and till I can put in in charge of some one going to the court, that will put you under Conchubar's protection." "It would be too long for me to wait for that," he said, "but I will go there by myself if you will tell me the road." "It is too far for you," said Deichrire, "for it is beyond Slíeve Fuad, Emain Macha is." "Is it east or west of Slíeve Fuad?" he asked. And when she had answered him that, he set out there and then, and nothing with him but his hurling stick, and his silver ball, and his little dart and spear; and to shorten the road for himself he would give a blow to the ball and drive it from him, and then he would throw his hurling stick after it, and the dart after that again, and then he would make a run and catch them all in his hand before one of them would have reached the ground.

So he went on until he came to the lawn at Emain Macha, and there he saw three fifties of king's sons hurling and learning feats of war. He went in amoung them, and when the ball came near him h got it between his feet, and drove it along in spite of them till he had sent it beyond the goal. There was great surprise and anger on them when they saw what he had done, and Follaman, King Conchubar's son, that was chief among them, cried out to them to come together and drive out this stranger and make an end of him. "For he has no right," he said, "to come into our game and without asking leave, and without putting his life under our protection. And you may be sure," he said, "that he is the son of some common fighting man, and it is not for him to come into our game at all." With that they all made an attack on him, and began to throw their hurling sticks at him, and their balls and darts, but he escaped them all, and then he rushed at them, and began to throw some of them to the ground. Fergus came out just then from the palace, and when he saw what a good defence the little lad was making, he brought him in to where Conchubar was playing chess, and told him all that had happened. "this is no gentle game you have been playing," he said. "It is on themselves the fault is," said the boy; "I came as a stranger, and I did not get a strangers welcome." "You did not know then," said Conchubar, "that no one can play among the boy troop of Emain unless he gets their leave and their protection." "I did not know that, or I would have asked it of them," he said. "What is your name and your family?" said Conchubar. "My name is Setanta, son of Sualtim and of Dechtire," he said. When Conchubar knew that he was his sister's son, he gave him a great welcome, and he bade the boy troop to let him go safe among them. "We will do that," they said. But when they weent out to play, Setanta began to break through them and to overthrow them, so that they could not stand against him. "What are you wanting of them now?" said Conchubar. "I swear by the gods my people swear by," said the boy, "I will not lighten my hand of them till they have come under my protection the same way I have come under theirs." Then they all agreed to give in to this; and Setanta stayed in the King's house at Emain Macha, and all the chief men of Ulster had a hand in bringing him up.

There was a great smith in Ulster of the name of Culain, who made a feast at that time for Conchubar and for his people. When Conchubar was setting out to the feast, he passed by the lawn where the boy troop were at their games, and he watched them awhile, and he saw how the son of Dechtire was winning the goal from them all. "That little lad will serve Ulster yet," said Conchubar; "and call him to me now," he said, "and let him come with me to the smith's feast." "I cannot go with you now," said Setanta, when they had called to him,"for these boys have not had enough of play yet." It would be too long for me to wait for you,"said the king. "There is no need for you to wait; I will follow the track of the chariots," said Setanta.

So Conchubar went on to the smith's house, and there was a welcome before him, and fresh rushes were laid down, and there were poems and songs and recitals of laws, and the feast was brought in, and they began to be merry. And then Culain said to the king:"Will there be ny one else of your people coming tonght?" "There will not," said Conchubar, for he forgot that he had told the little lad to follow him. "But why do you ask me that?" he said. "I have a great fierce hound," said the smith, "and when I take the chain off him, he lets no one come int the one districk with himself, and he will obey no one but myself, and he has in him the strength of a hundred." "Loose him out," said Conchubar, "until he keeps a watch on the place." So Cualin loosed him out, and the dog made a course round the whole district, and then he came back to the place were he was used to lie and to watch the house, and every one was in dread of him, he was so fierce and so cruel and so savage.

Now, as to the boys at Emain, when they were done playing, every one went to his father's house, or to whoever was in charge of him. But Setanta set out on the track of the chariots, shortening the way for himself as he was used to do with his hurling stick and his ball. When he came to the lawn before the smith's house, the hound heard him coming, and began such a fierce yelling that he might have been heard through all Ulster, and he sprang at him as if he had a mind not to stop and tear him at all, but to swallow him at one mouthful. The little fellow had no weapon but his stick and his ball, but when he saw the hound coming at him, he struck the ball with such force that it went down his throat, and through his body. Then he seized him by the hind legs and dashed him against a rock until there was no life left in him.

Whe the men feasting within heard the outcry of the hound, Conchubar started up and said: "It is no good luck brought us on this journey, for that is surely my sister's son that was coming after me, and that has got his death by the hound." On that all the men rushed out, not waiting to go through the door, but over walls and barriers as they could. But Fergus was the first to get to where the boy was, and he took him up and lifted him on his shoulder, and brought him in safe and sound to Conchubar, and there was great joy on them all.

But Culain the smith went out with them, and when he saw his great hound lying dead and broken there was great grief in his heart, and he came in and said, to Setanta: "There is no good welcome for you here." "What have you against the lad?" said Conchubar. "It was no good luck that brought him here, or that made me prepare this feast for yourself, King," he said; "for from this out, my hound being gone, my substance will be wasted, and my way of living will be gone astray. And little boy," he said, "that was a good member of my family you took from me, for he was the protector of my goods and my flocks and my herds and of all that I had." "Do not be vexed on account of that," said the boy, "and I myself will make up to you for what I have done." "How will you do that?" said Conchubar. "This is how I will do it: if there is a whelp of the same breed to be had in Ireland, I will rear him and train him until he is as good a hound as the one killed; and until that time, Culain," he said, "I myself will be your watchdog, to guard your goods and your cattle and your house." "You have made a fair offer," said Conchubar. "I would give no better myself," said Cathbar the Druid. "And from this out," he said, "your name will be Cuchailain, the Hound of Culain." "I am better pleased with my own name of Setanta, son of Sualtim," said the boy. "Do not say that," said Cathbad, "for all the men in the whole world will someday have the name of Cuculain in their mouths." "If that is so, I am content to keep it" said the boy. And this is how he came by the name of Cuchulain.

Mícheál Mhor turns away, and stares once again at the fire, lost in his reverie, seeking the approval of the old one's in the telling of the tale, then returns to the side of THE FAIR ONE, she of the tiny icy cold feet...................

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: catspaw49
Date: 20 Dec 99 - 02:40 AM

Well, I just ate half a dozen of Karen's cookies while reading this sucker and I must say its creative although I personally hate this period of history. The only parts that intrigued me were the possibility of fixing up Lady Elinor with the high hard one and gettin' nekkid with Irish Aussie. On the other hand, it was refreshing(?) that Big Mick has the openess and honesty to admit his breath smells like fish bait and that Bert can remember the lamest of old jokes.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Roger ye skiffler
Date: 20 Dec 99 - 04:06 AM

Yes it's your poor cold fool here again
A riddle my masters?
If you get olive oil by pressing olives between two stones, how do you get baby oil?
Yes, I have come from the Neil Young retirement cave for old jokes.
I am cold because they make me sing on the battlements as the sun goes down
They call it Jester song at twilight
I'm great friends with the torturer, when his victims don't respond to the rack he gets me to sing "Puttin' on the Style" to them, works every time.
As a reward he got me two tickets for the Prisoner's Ball. I thought it was a dance, but apparently it's a raffle
If a tinhorn is made of tin, what's a fog horn made of?
Meanwhile, back to the sagas...
RtS

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: T in Oklahoma (Okiemockbird)
Date: 20 Dec 99 - 01:16 PM

Farewell, Castle Mudcat. Farewell, Matilda and Elinor. Matilda, I'm glad you'll be visiting Elinor often. I hope the lady Caitrin will allow me to return, for I have enjoyed my stay here, and have hardly begun to learn the ways of this place.

Maybe I can rent a boat and catch up to that schooner...

Subject: RE: Castle Mudcat
From: Okiemockbird
Date: 29 Dec 99 - 11:29 AM

Ho, doorkeeper! I came by to fetch my instruments, which I didn't have room for on my boat-trip.

Convey my compliments to your lady, when she returns.

T.