The Mabinogion Vol. 3

In this volume the oldest of the Welsh legends unfold, set in a world untouched by Christian ritual or medieval chivalry. The opening tale follows Pwyll, prince of the kingdom of Dyved, as he rides out on a night hunt through the forest of Glyn Cuch. When his hounds bring down a stag, he is shocked to see the dogs themselves—white as light, with red ears—behaving in a way that seems both supernatural and rude. A lone rider on a grey horse confronts him, accusing Pwyll of a grave breach of courtesy for turning his own hounds against the strange hunters.

The encounter quickly becomes a test of honor and friendship. The mysterious rider claims to be Arawn, king of the Otherworld, and offers Pwyll a chance to repair the insult through an unusual bargain. Listeners are drawn into a tale where hospitality, magic, and the bending of realms intertwine, setting the stage for adventures that echo the clash between fading pagan ways and emerging new forces.