wherein Niamh encounters the raven thief again
“for I am a wild and a lonely child.”
The children were gone.
Niamh cradled the pouch wearily, – four dreams yet to find! The island beckoned in the distance. The dying sun was falling from the sky as luminous light bled out between the shadows of the late afternoon.
Some ravens were foraging beside a tree. One looked at Niamh and cawed loudly. At the sound another appeared from the forest and flew along the shore. She followed and watched as it alighted on a small curach* hidden behind some rocks. It was the same raven who stole the dragon’s dream eye, and he still held it in his beak!
the children of darkness- (a folk song) Richard and Mimi Farina
Background: A curach is a wood ribbed vessel covered in animal hides that along with the coracle, a round woven boat has probably been used since the bronze age.
The photo is one that I took of the island of Ailsa Craig in the Irish Sea when I crossed over from the port of Cairnryan, Scotland to Belfast. This remote piece of real estate has been for sale and I’m not sure if it has been taken yet by any would be developer.
the runes of the gatekeeper's daughter- dedicated to Nick 
thank you so much Peter. ‘m very pleased to have someone say that they are really enjoying these little tales. I certainly will. I really appreciate the encouragement! Two other people who also write said similar! So I will be looking into that when I finish this little series.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi, Cybele. Remember me when eventually you compile all these delectable tales into a book. I am waiting for that day. I would like to read them to my loved ones, when the day is quiet and we are all together under the full moon, like over the Christmas period. Thanks for sharing them with us.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful images!!! Such an artist you are.
LikeLike
aha!! that is a complement coming from you dear Laura!! – Or it takes one to know one lol!!! My tale is taking it’s own direction so photos and story seem to really merge for me these days!!
LikeLike
I think it’s great! You do such a wonderful job at merging them. Seems like you should be writing a picture book for children.
LikeLiked by 1 person
and thank you! lol 😛
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ravens and crows are notorious thieves! I love your dreamy photos and story.
LikeLike
they are!! so clever!! Thanks Linda!
LikeLike
I love that picture with the raven by the tree. We have lots of jackdaws, crows, and rooks where I live, but no ravens. Once a year, about November time, the rooks gather in the treetops and then swoop down over our local park to drive off the seagulls that have come up from the beaches to feed when it’s stormy. The rooks always win the battle. even though some of the gulls are bigger than them.
LikeLike
yes, all related!! The raven is a very important figure of myth in first nations culture too – the trickster – plus we have two ravens on Odin’s shoulders, and Morrigan’s raven of battle and prophecy! Thanks for visiting Sarah!!
LikeLike
Wonderful photo and words… Now I am thinking of ravens!
LikeLike
I lost the ability to read novels after head injuries in an industrial accident. I simply cannot adhere to a book; I loose concentration so easy but your opening up a different perspective to me.. I’m remembering your text through your pictures so I’m actually following the story ;D
LikeLike
I am so glad for that. Thank you so much!! I chose these short stories because I know a lot of people don’t like to wade through long posts!! 🙂
LikeLike
These photos are dreamlike, Cybele–enchanting, like your stories.
LikeLike
Little dreamscapes. I like that! Thank you Naomi!!!
LikeLike
Great photos and the story progresses magically! I’m soooo enjoying it 😀 Oh! And I also find the extra info very interesting and enriching! Great job!
LikeLike
Good post – I am partial to ravens and crows – they are plain birds but very smart and magnificent.
LikeLike