Muireann is the nymph bound to the Angel Oak near Charleston, South Carolina.
Overview[]
The nymph bound to the majestic Angel Oak watches the world change around her with a mournful fascination. A few local changelings know that the ancient tree houses the spirit of a nymph, and some Kithain have sought her advice and counsel, knowing that her many years have given her great wisdom and profound insight.
Although those blessed with faeries sight enjoy the gentle company of the nymph and bask in the peaceful Glamour she exudes, none understand the sorrow buried deep within her ever-aching heart.
Long before the Shattering, a few sidhe travelled across the ocean to seek refuge in the western lands. One of these, Gofraidh of House Gwydion, built a freehold near modern-day Charleston. On one occasion, when Lord Gofraidh was inspecting his new lands, he encountered a beautiful maiden sitting beneath an oak tree of unsurpassed splendor. The two creatures of the Dreaming fell in love instantly. Although, as a bound nymph, the Lady Muireann could not stray far from her tree, Lord Gofraidh spent as much time in her company as he could, sometimes neglecting his other duties as the head of a faeries household in order to be near his heart's joy.
When the Shattering fell upon the land, Lord Gofraidh helped the other residents of his freehold escape to Arcadia, then returned to the island where Muireann's tree stood, hoping to convince his beloved to come with him. Through her tears, Muireann told her sidhe lover that such was impossible. She and her tree were bound to remain rooted to the mortal world; she could only trust that they would also anchor themselves in what was left of the Dreaming as well. She urged Gofraidh to leave her and save himself before it was too late. Gofraidh refused, choosing instead to remain in the embrace of his beloved until the darkness and icy chill of the Shattering trapped and shattered his faerie spirit beyond retrieval.
Over the ensuing centuries, Muireann has come to terms with the overwhelming sadness that enveloped her at Godraidh's death. She takes an interest in mortals and changelings alike, delighting in watching them as they rest beneath her leafy branches. When approached by changelings who can see her faerie form, she is a gracious host, offering wisdom and comfort. Though polite and helpful, Muireann always avoids forming close relationships with other fae.
- NB: Being a pre-Inanimae: The Secret Way character, one could possibly consider Muireann a Kubera as she is bound only to her tree and not a whole glade like the nymph Kukui.
Image[]
Muireann's mortal form is that of an ancient oak, majestic and powerful in aspect. Her faerie nature reveals a slim maiden with nut-brown skin and long, flowing hair that changes colors with the seasons. Her eyes, though warm and friendly, sometimes fill with tears for no apparent reason.
Personal[]
Centuries have passed, yet to Muireann it seems always yesterday that he watched her greatest joy fall prey to the Shattering's icy knives. She tries not to let her sorrow blind her to the beauty that still lies within her sight, but she will never again allow herself to feel too deeply or become too attached to anyone.
References[]
- CTD: Kingdom of Willows, p. 146-147
