*** AND 1 MAKES 3 ***



It was early on a Saturday morning when Máiréad rode into Rahan, proudly perched on top of the most beautiful Palomino you could ever feast your eyes on. The pair of them were a sight for the gods, sunlight on gold, confidence on four legs.

She stopped outside the Post Office, surprised to see that it was open. Sliding down from her horse, she went inside, where an elderly gentleman stood behind the counter.

“Top of the morning to you, lass," he said with a big smile and a bog Irish accent.

“And the rest of the day to yourself," Máiréad replied.

He nodded toward the door. “Where have you come from on that magnificent animal? Must have cost a pretty penny."
Máiréad laughed softly. “Oh, I’m from Killashee, County Longford. And she didn’t cost me anything. She followed me home one night, quite literally." The old man stud there with a dumb look on his face, so she told him the story.

She’d been standing in a field just outside her village one night, watching the Northern Lights. And out of nowhere, something nudged her in the back. She jumped and turned to find a small foal, no more than three weeks old, staring up at her, lost and trembling. No other horses in sight.

“So, I gave it a pat on the head," Máiréad said, “and started walking home."
The foal followed her all the way to the village, sticking to her side like it had chosen her. She went to see the local Ranger who explained that a group of Spanish Gypsies had passed through days earlier, the foal must have been left behind. Because nobody around here has horses like that, so it must have been theirs.

“Well now," he’d said, “looks like you’ve got yourself a brand‑new baby mare, young lady. The Gypsies won’t be back. So, I guess she’s yours. And you’re a good girl for telling me. Take good care of her, and she’ll do the same for you."

Máiréad had been thrilled. Aurora, she’d decided, that’s what I’ll call her, Aurora, it’s a grand name for something so beautiful.

“So that’s how I got my horse, fine sir," she smiled.

The old man chuckled. “Name’s Jim. And it’s a pleasure to meet you, young lady."
“And you as well, Jim. I’m Máiréad"

He glanced at her armour. “So, Máiréad, what can I do for you? I’m guessing you’re not dressed like that for a stroll."
She explained she was here to meet Sinéad and Róisín, who had invited her to join them.

“Well then," Jim said, “that explains it all. Now then, head down the street, turn right, and you’ll see a tavern called The White Pony Inn. That’s where they live, and they’re likely having breakfast right now."
"You’re very kind," Máiréad said as she headed for the door. “Have a lovely day, Séamus. It’s been a pleasure meeting you."

"Pleasure’s been all mine sweetheart" he said.

With that, she toddled off to find her new friends, and perhaps a bit of breakfast for herself.


To Be Continued...