Tales From Avator
The Birth of the Grandson of the Dagda
Fergus' Tale, page 4
"A season will have passed when we arrive back in Ulaid. Our home and fields have been watched over on my account. And although I also agreed that your aggression against the birds should not go unnoticed, your sons, my brothers, will be well taken care of. They shall serve Lugh for the next fifty seasons without a want or need. They are not unhappy with their present predicament. They are here now, they hold no anger towards you."
The Tuatha De Danann began to enter into the hall, with the Dagda leading, holding the small child in his arms. Mary raised her father off the ground as two of the emerald birds landed on his shoulders.
"This is the beginning of a new era," the Dagda began, speaking to the sky. "This child must carry a great burden. The sins of man will be his strength and his suffering. Who in my hall is prepared to help this grandson of mine?" The Tuatha began looking amongst themselves. "Do not fear my children, it is not up to you to help this child. He must endure the wrath of man to gain his strength. If he is helped, he will become weak. He must die for the sins of man if he is to become the strongest god of us all, the God Of Sin. Lugh, leave this child with Conchobar, King of the Ulaid. He is to have one of his carpenters raise this child. He must not be taught any of the warrior's creeds. If he becomes to strong, he will be able to defend himself on the day of his death and rebirth. Now Go!" With that, the Dagda raised his hand and both Lugh and the child disappeared.
Taking a seat at the head of the table, the Dagda motioned all to be seated.
"Sit Joseph. It has been too long since you have been with us. If you and Mary wish to return to your humble home, it can be arranged. But it is time for the world to change and you may not enjoy how it turns out. If it is your choice, you are welcome to live here with us now."
Joseph took Mary's arm and led her to the table where two seats awaited them.
"I wish to be home, that is true Dagda. But I now realize that this is my home, and I am proud to be here, father."
