He’s a wiry man of perhaps thirty six, with intelligent eyes that seem to take in far more than his casual manner suggests. His clothes are rumpled, his beard unkempt, but there’s something about the way he moves – economical, purposeful despite his relaxed stance.
A ramshackle bothán sits slightly apart from the others in the clachán of Cnoc an Óir. Smoke drifts lazily from the thatch, and the sound of someone rummaging about comes from within. As you approach, a man emerges, quickly setting something aside behind his doorframe.
Well now, that’s a face I don’t recognise. You’re not a Norman, that’s for sure, but – you’re not from these parts – are you?
No matter, put it there – Mattie Ó Fhearghusa’s the name. And you’d be heading?
Ah, Eochaill, is it? Well, you’ll want to follow the path south through the forest there – the one that winds down toward the river. Mind yourself on the Lios Mór route though – keep to the main pilgrim path – you can’t mistake it and don’t go wandering off into the side tracks. Easy enough to lose your way, and some folk down there – well, let’s just say they’re not as fond of travellers as we are up here.
You’ll know you’re getting close, when you smell the salt air and hear the gulls. The town will be over to your right, but the path goes left – and what did I say earlier?
Stay on the path! Don’t go taking any short route, it will be your undoing.
Grand little town, Eochaill. Full of Normans with more coin than sense, if you don’t mind my saying. Though they do brew terrible ale.
A word of advice – when you get to the gates, mention you’ve come from Cnoc an Óir and that the Ó Fhearghusa send their greetings. They’ll let you pass easier that way. I think they fear us.
Right then, you’d best be on your way if you want to reach the town before the light fails. The forest paths can be – tricky in the dark.
Safe travels to you.
And remember – keep to the main track!
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I wager, the wolves will have him tonight as Mattie shakes his head and returns to his chores in the bothán.
Ciaran Leamy - Author 