Sharvan

And they answered, 'Sharvan the giant is slain, and behold here we have brought thee berries from the quicken-tree so that henceforth we may live at peace.'

Celtic Tales, Told to the Children Louey Chisholm

When they were gone, Dermat and Grania went to the top of the quicken-tree, into the hut of Sharvan, and the berries below were but bitter compared to the berries that were above upon the tree.

Celtic Tales, Told to the Children Louey Chisholm

At these words Sharvan waxed exceeding wroth, and with his club did he deal Dermat three sore blows.

Celtic Tales, Told to the Children Louey Chisholm

Neither may ye hope to fare better in your quest of the quicken-berries, for the surly giant Sharvan guards the tree.

Celtic Tales, Told to the Children Louey Chisholm

But Dermat answered, 'At the mere sight of Sharvan ye would flee, and even were it not so I wish the aid of none.'

Celtic Tales, Told to the Children Louey Chisholm

And as for the quicken-berries, know ye that they grow on a fairy tree, guarded by the one-eyed giant Sharvan. '

Celtic Tales, Told to the Children Louey Chisholm

When the champion came to the foot of the quicken-tree he found Sharvan there, asleep.

Celtic Tales, Told to the Children Louey Chisholm

'In truth I dwell here with Grania in the hut that was built by Sharvan the giant.'

Celtic Tales, Told to the Children Louey Chisholm

Then Sharvan raised his head, and, glaring at Dermat with his one red eye, said, 'There hath been peace betwixt us heretofore, wherefore should we now depart from it?'

Celtic Tales, Told to the Children Louey Chisholm

And by magic was Sharvan saved from death, for water would not drown him nor fire burn; neither was there weapon, save one, that could wound the giant.

Celtic Tales, Told to the Children Louey Chisholm