Geraint son of Erbin

Geraint son of Erbin.

Geraint son of Erbin is a story within The Mabinogion that follows the life of Geraint from being a prince of Cornwall and knight of Arthur's Court to becoming king after his father, Erbin, with his wife, Enid. Geraint was also known as one of the 'Three Seafarers of Britain'. The latter half of the story revolves around the premise of mistaken intent as Geraint believes that his wife is seeking a new lover, believing that Geraint is no longer much of a man, and he drags her across the land trying to prove his prowess. King Arthur and Gwenhwyfar are featured for the set up to the tale, as Gwenhwyfar enters the forest alone during a hunt in the Forest of Dean, where the protagonist, Geraint, is first introduced and he keeps the queen company. There, a maiden of Gwenhwyfar's is physically assaulted by a dwarf when she tried to enquire as to the dwarf's master, which leads Geraint on a mission to follow said knight and dwarf. This leads him to a land where he finds that the Earl Ynywl lives in a dilapidated castles and is where Geraint first meets the earl's daughter, Enid. The knight, named Edern, was to take part in a competition to become The Sparrowhawk Knight, the result of which the winner is to give the won bird to the woman they loved. Geraint entered and asked that Enid be the maiden he represented. Upon overcoming Edern, he granted the knight mercy if he went to Arthur's Court. Arthur chose to show mercy to Edern and requested that Morgan Tud (precursor to Morgan le Fey) heal the wounded knight. Some time later, Erbin summons Geraint to take up his duty as king of Cornwall and Arthur leads a procession of knights, including Edern, to Cornwall for the celebration and Enid is made queen of Cornwall. Years later, Geraint has slowed down and spent less time on heroic deeds and more time with his wife. Erbin came to suspect that Enid was purposefully causing this, which she fretted over. As she cried and spoke of her lament, Geraint overheard and mistook her meaning that she wished to be with another man, recognising his lack of recent prowess. Angered, he proceeds to leave the kingdom, forcing Enid along too. He forces her to ride separate from himself and that she is not to speak to him, but she consistently broke this command as danger would approach and she wishes to keep him safe. They tackle many foes, including the Dun Earl, before they meet with Y Brenin Bychan. Upon defeat, Y Brenin Bychan agrees to support Geraint in his hour of need and asks that he heal his wounds at his castle - but Geraint refuses. This leads Geraint and Enid into the camp of Arthur. Initially attacked by Cai, Gwalchmai recognises Geraint and takes him to Arthur, despite Geraint's refusal and is healed by Morgan Tud. Once free to resume, he takes Enid once again, but their journey leads to a battle with three giants, which Geraint narrowly wins but is gravely wounded. Earl Limwris finds them and takes them to his castle, allowing Geraint time to heal. However, the earl offers Enid to become his wife, for surely Geraint would die, but she refused. When the earl threatened to rape her, Geraint overhears and kills the earl and escapes with Enid, now knowing she did not desire any other man. Y Brenin Bychan arrives to save them and they go to his castle, though they soon resume their journey for one final quest. They enter the land of Earl Owain and Geraint must enter an enchanted mist, where he defeats the knight and dispels the mist and thus returns home with his wife to rule again.

The Mabinogion

Athur's Hunt in the Forest of Dean: Begins

It was customary for King Arthur to hold court at Caerllion ar Wysg and he continued this practice for seven Easters and Christmasses. He chose this place as it was the most accessible court in all of his land, either by land or sea. One Whitsuntide, he gathered together nine of his vassalised kings, along with their own barons and earls, and held a high feast. Whenever Arthur was at court in such a manner, thirteen churches would take up mass. One church was for Arthur himself, and any of his guests. The second church was for Queen Gwenhwyfar and her ladies. The third for the steward (usually identified as Cai) and the petitioners. The fourth was for Odiar the Frank (the term "Frank" could mean 'foreign mercenary', however it more likely here refers to Frenchman (as in descended from the Franks) or possibly Norman) and the other officers. Nine other churches were for the captains of the bodyguard, especially for Gwalchmai, who was the chief of the nine captains and considered a knight of great reputation. Glewlwyd Gafaelfawr was the chief gatekeeper, but he usually only performed the duty of office for one of three of the major feasts. The seven men that worked under him shared the responsibility throughout the year, particularly Gryn, Penpingion, Llesgymyn, Gogyfwlch, Gwrddnei Kygaid Cath (who could see as well by night as by day), Drem son of Dremidydd and Clust son of Clustfeinydd, all of whom were Arthur's warriors.

On the Whit Tuesday, Emperor Arthur was approached by a young man with auburn-hair and fine garments, with a gold-hilted sword and boots of Cordovan leather (as in prized leather from Codoba.). Arthur remarks that he does not recognise the young man, who declares that he is surprised Arthur does not recognise him. He announces himself to be Madog, son of Twrgadarn, and works as a forester of Arthur in the Forest of Dean. He has come with news of a brilliant, white stag in the forest and seeks guidance on what to do from Arthur. Arthur deems the most appropriate thing is that he should hunt the creature himself and to let the chief huntsman, Rhyferys, and the chief squire, Elifri, be prepared to leave at dawn. The squire was sent on ahead. Gwenhwyfar requests permission to join Arthur in this hunt and he agrees. Gwalchmai also adds that it might be appropriate for Arthur to allow the person who brings down the animal to remove the head of the stag and bestow it upon someone, whether it is their own lover or the lover of their friend, and Arthur agrees to this too. They resume the evening until they eventually retire to bed. Come the morning, Arthur called the servants in charge of his bed; Cadyriaith (meaning "fine speech") son of Porthor Gandwy, Amhren son of Bedwyr, Amhar son of Arthur and Gorau son of Custennin. The young stewards helped dress and tend to Arthur, but all were surprised that Gwenhwyfar had not yet risen. Arthur told them not to wake her, believing she would rather sleep than watch the hunt. Outside, Arthur heard two horns; one from the chief huntsman, Rhyferys, and the answering call from the chief squire, Elifri. Arthur was soon joined by a large group of men for the hunt and they set across the Wysg and headed to the Forest of Dean.

Gwenhwyfar and Geraint

When Gwenhwyfar awoke, she summoned her maids and decided to follow after the hunters. She went to the stables to find horses suitable for women to ride, but found there were only two left. So she took one and went with just a single maid. They followed the tracks of the hunt to the forest. But they heard a strange and ferocious noise. They turned to see a rider on a willow-grey colt of enormous size. The rider was a noble squire with auburn-hair and wore a tunic and surcoat of brocaded silk and a mantle of blue-purple that had a golden apple on each corner. His legs were bare and had a gold-hilted sword strapped from his belt. The young man greeted Gwenhwyfar, and she returned the greeting and recognised the man as Geraint (one of the Three Seafarers (fleet owners) of Britain and cousin to Arthur, as Erbin is Arthur's uncle). She wanted to know why he had not joined Arthur and Geraint admitted he had not realised they had left. The queen admitted the same, but was thankful to have such an escort. She believed they would still have the thrill of the hunt when they heard the horns and the baying of the hounds. When they reached the edge of the forest, they paused in wait to hear the horns or dogs.

The maiden of Gwenhayfar is beaten by the dwarf servant of Edern.

A noise then disturbed them, but it was not horns nor dogs. They turned to see a huge, powerful horse with a dwarf as its rider, who bore a whip. There was a pale-white horse ridden by a woman clad in a gown of brocaded silk. And there was a knight upon a muddy charger (meaning warhorse), clad in heavy, shining armour and Geraint was sure he had never seen such an impressive man and horse. Gwenhwyfar asks Geraint if he recognises the knight, but he does not and the knight's armour obscures his face. Gwenhwyfar orders her maid to speak to the dwarf and ask the identity of the knight. The dwarf, however, refuses to tell her. Because the dwarf is being rude, the maiden asserts she would address the knight herself, but the dwarf refuses to allow her, deeming her status too low to speak to the knight. She ignored him and turned towards the knight, but the dwarf lashed out with his whip and caught the maiden across the eyes so that she bled. She fled back to Gwenhwyfar and Geraint was appalled that the dwarf had treated the maiden so roughly, so he would go instead. Geraint was given the same response, the dwarf would not tell and Geraint was not high enough to speak to the knight. Geraint deemed that he was freely spoken with a man easily equal any knight, referring to Arthur, and would speak to the knight. The dwarf again struck him across the eyes until he bled. Geraint was about to draw his sword to kill the dwarf, but considered the offence not great enough to kill, and that the knight would seek vengeance upon him and Geraint had no armour against this knight's bulking suit. So he returned to the queen, who commended him on his wisdom. Geraint requested permission to follow the knight, who must surely reach an inhabited area that Geraint could armour himself and bring the mysterious knight to combat. Gwenhwyfar gave permission, but admitted she would be worried for his safety.

The Knight of the Sparrowhawk

Geraint followed the group by the court of Caerllion, crossed the ford of the Wysg, and travelled across a plain until they reached a walled town. Geraint noticed how the people of the town all welcomed the knight and the men all wore armour and polished shields. Geraint found he knew nobody in the town that he might borrow armour from and the people were all happy to see the mysterious knight, lady and dwarf as they went to the castle. When it seemed the trio would remain within the castle, Geraint searched the town and discovered an old, dilapidated court. He could hardly see anything as he approached, but found an old man sat upon the stairwell to the second storey, who was dressed in worn out clothing. Geraint was caught staring at the man, who asked what he was thinking. Geraint confided he needed a place to stay and so the old man asked him to remain at the court. Geraint dismounted and followed the man to a second-storey chamber, where he saw an old lady in equally shabby clothing. Geraint thought she might have been very beautiful in her youth. With the lady was a maiden (later in the story named as Enid) dressed in a simple smock that appeared as though it were falling apart. The old man bade the maiden that she will have to serve as groom, and she vowed to provide the best service she could to both the squire and the horse. Afterwards, the old man further bade her to travel into town and procure the best food and drink she could. When she returned, she came with a servant who had a flagon of mead upon his back and brought a quarter of young bullock, while the maiden brought a portion of white bread. This, she confessed, was all she could get, and Geraint stated it was enough. After food, the old man confessed that he was the first ruler of the court and had built it and the castle in his youth, when he ruled the town. He explained that he was once an earl and held both his own kingdom and that of his nephew's. When the nephew came of age to claim it, the old main admitted he kept it and that the nephew thus waged war upon him and took everything (the old man is named Earl Ynywl later in the chapter). Thus, Geraint came to inquire of the knight. The old man explained that the young earl likes to play a game, and the knight and the town's armouring, is for that occasion. For this game, they go to a meadow where they create two forks and on the fork is a silver rod. A sparrowhawk would be placed upon the silver rod and there a tournament would be held. A knight would enter the competition, but must arrive with the woman he loves best and fight in her honour. The knight that Geraint saw had son two years in a row and, should he be victorious this third time, he would be declared Knight of the Sparrowhawk for earning the bird. Geraint requests the old man for advice on how to proceed, relating the great insult that was bestowed upon Gwenhwyfar's maid. Unfortunately, while the old man is happy to share his old armour, weapons and even his mount, Geraint has no lady to fight for that he could challenge the knight during the competition. Geraint is thankful for the armour, but is comfortable using his own steed. He further requests that he may fight for the honour of the maiden, who he knows to be the old man's daughter. He vows that, should be survive the tournament, he would love the maiden forever, but should he die then she would remain chaste as before. The old main is happy to accept, but Geraint must be ready by daybreak as the current Knight of the Sparrowhawk would lay the claim then, to his lady.

Geraint and The Knight of the Sparrowhawk, Edern.

That morning, Geraint attended the meadow, along with the old man, woman and their daughter. As the Knight of the Sparrowhawk asked that his lady take the sparrowhawk, Geraint came forth and declared that she should not take it, for there is another worthy of the bird. The knight offered that Geraint should step forth to joust and prove this claim. Geraint went ahead, wearing the rusted, strange armour of the old man and met in jousting with the knight. They passed several times and the young earl and the crowd saw that the knight was getting the better of Geraint and they cheered, while his own companions grew saddened. The dwarf served up the lances for his master, while the old man served Geraint his lances. Finally, the old man offered up Geraint a special lance that was bestowed upon him when he was first ordained as a knight and said it had never failed him. Hearing this, the dwarf offered up a lance to his master with the claim that his lance is just as good as that of the old man, but reminds the knight that none had stood up to him for as long as Geraint has. Geraint is determined that no help from the dwarf shall save his master. The next pass, Geraint well aimed his lance at the shield with such a blow that the Knight of the Sparrowhawk was thrown with broken armour. Geraint dismounts and, with keen rage, charges at the knight, who draws his own sword too. They battle, but when it seems Geraint is weakened, the old man came to him to remind him that he is here to avenge the insult to the lady of Gwenhwyfar and Arthur's family honour. Thus emboldened in spirit, Geraint went to attack and was able to cleave the knight's helmet, spilling blood and splitting bone. The knight fell to his knees, threw his sword aside and asked for mercy. Geraint agreed to spare the knight, who believed he would soon perish with this wound, but asked that he needed to speak with a priest before his demise. Geraint only allowed this clemency on the condition that the knight return to Arthur's court and apologise to Gwenhwyfar and the maid for the insult from him and his dwarven servant. The knight agreed and asked Geraint for his name. Geraint gave his name, as son of Erbin, and the knight gave his name as Edern, son of Nudd (Edern is brother of Gwyn and Nudd is cognate to the Irish deity Nuadu). Edern, with the dwarf and his lady, went to Arthur's court as bid, and the lady filled with grief and lamentation.

The young earl invited Geraint, as victor, to join him in the castle, but Geraint chose to remain at the court. The earl offered to at least provide them with food and a bath, which Geraint accepted. The young earl's chamberlains arrived and the court of Earl Ynywl. Geraint took his bath until the young earl arrived with his host to feast in the hall. Geraint asked where Earl Ynywl and his family were and a chamberlain explained that they were dressing in new clothes provided by Ynywl's nephew. Geraint, however, asked that the daughter continue to wear her old smock so that Gwenhwyfar could provide the maiden with dress when they arrived at Arthur's court. They all went to the meal together. On one side of Geraint sat the young earl and then the old earl. One Geraint's other side sat the maiden and then her mother. The others at the table were then seated according to their rank. Towards the end of the merry dinner, the young earl invited Geraint to be his guest the following day, but Geraint refuses as he says he is bound for Arthur's court with the maiden where he wishes to attend to the poverty of Earl Ynywl. The young earl claims that this poverty is through no fault of his own, but Geraint is insistent that the situation be rectified. Geraint wants the old earl to be given back the lands he is due, that the nephew took, and that his vassals also be restored - but no more than he is meant to have. In this, the young earl accepted the advice, believing Geraint to be impartial and a judge of what is morally correct. The earl's former vassals thus realigned themselves immediately to Ynywl and he was given back his lands, including the castle in the town. In time, Ynywl told Geraint that his daughter was ready to do as Geraint bid, to which Geraint asked only that she remain as she is until they reach Arthur's court and that he longed for Arthur and Gwenhwyfar to give her away (if a girl was given away in marriage by a member of their kin, that person was the rhoddiaid (the bestower) and this was a legal agreement, which included payments such as amobr (a fee to be paid to the woman's lord) and cowyll (a payment for her virginity to her by the husband). Though usually the rhoddiaid would be the father, Geraint has asked for Arthur and Gwenhwyfar to perform the duty instead). The next day they set off for Arthur's court.

Arthur's Hunt in the Forest of Dean: Continued

Back in the Forest of Dean, the hunt for the stag was initialised by releasing the hounds. The last dog to be released Arthur's favourite - Cafall. The hound chased the stag towards Arthur's hunting station and before anyone could kill the stag, Arthur cut off the beast's head. The horn was sounded and the huntsmen gathered. Cadyriaith announced to Arthur that Gwenhwyfar was present, alone except for a single maiden. Arthur asked that Gildas, son of Caw, and the other clerics, escort the queen back to the court. The knights were arguing over who should get the head, each wanting to gift it to their own lady. When they all returned to the court, Gwenhwyfar heard the bickering and asked Arthur that he wait for Geraint, son of Erbin, to return from his quest before bestowing the stag's head. She explained what had happened and Arthur agreed. Gwenhwyfar ordered that watchmen be set to the battlements to keep an eye for Geraint's return. Eventually, they reported not of Geraint but of a hunchback, a lady and a wounded knight. Gwenhwyfar recognised the trio and believed the knight was not returning by his own will, but likely ordered back by Geraint, meaning the insult to the maiden was avenged. The gatekeeper came to Gwenhwyfar and told her that the knight was Edern, son of Nudd, and that he is in terrible condition. The knight was permitted entry and Gwenhwyfar went to meet him. Edern told her that he was bested and the insults were firmly avenged. Gwenhwyfar asked where the match had taken place and he told her the jousting grounds for the title of Knight of the Sparrowhawk (later the town is known as Caerdydd). He further explained the love that Geraint had declared for the shabby maiden in the town in order to battle Edern. He said that he believed Geraint would return here the following day. When Arthur arrived, he recognised Edern. After the king is informed of matters, Arthur wishes to show mercy on the knight and grant him medical treatment. Should the knight survive, he would face judgement from the noblemen of the court. Should he die, then the insult-price of striking the maiden would be paid. Gwenhwyfar was satisfied with this, so Arthur acted as guarantor for Edern and went, together with Caradog (linked with Arthur's court, Celli Wig, in Cornwall, he is given the title 'Chief of Elders'), son of Llŷr, Gwallog (one of the Three Pillars of Battle and one of the Three Armed Warriors, Gwallog may have been a historical figure of Hen Ogledd), son of Llennog, Owain (this Owain seems to be brother to Edern, but no further information is given), son of Nudd and Gwalchmai, to meet with Morgan Tud (though here, this Morgan is male, Morgan le Fay would be the sister of Arthur starting with Chrétian, but the healing characteristic would remain), the chief of physicians (one of the twenty-four officers to the king, a physician was expected to give the king healing free of charge, except for three grave wounds, for which they would be paid. A blow to the head, reaching the brain, a blow to the body, reaching the bowels, and breaking one of the four limbs). Arthur ordered Morgan Tud to treat Edern as well as he might treat Arthur himself and that none were to disturb the healing. The steward asked who would care for the maiden that came with Edern and Arthur had her entrusted to Gwenhwyfar and her ladies.

Gwenhwyfar watches from the battlements for signs of Geraint and Enid.

The next day, the watchmen announced the arrival of Geraint and his lady, so Gwenhwyfar had everyone prepared to greet them. Gwenhwyfar commended Geraint for his actions and he introduced the maiden as being responsible for allowing the insult to be met and Gwenhwyfar was glad to welcome her. Geraint went to meet with Arthur and he explained that Edern's injuries are his own fault for his arrogance in not simply offering up his name in the first place. Arthur wanted to meet the maiden under Geraint's protection and she was deemed a fair beauty. Arthur wed them and there was a grand celebration. Enid was granted use of any of Gwenhwyfar's dresses and they feasted and sang and played games. In Arthur and Gwenhwyfar's bedchamber, a bed was made for Geraint and Enid where they first slept together. Arthur satisfied the suppliants on Geraint's behalf with generous gifts. Enid became highly regarded and Gwenhwyfar commended herself for making the correct decision on the stag's head, deeming none more worthy than Enid, daughter of Ynywl. Her popularity at court was increased by this and Geraint won many tournaments and his fame grew too over the course of the year.

King Geraint

At some point following that year, King Arthur was holding court at Caerllion ar Wysg at Whitsuntide. A group of wise and learned messengers arrived at court, telling that they are from the court of Cornwall at the behest of Erbin, son of Custennin, Arthur's own uncle. He addresses Arthur as his uncle, but also as his vassal, and admits that he has grown weak and feeble as death encroaches upon him. His neighbours have senses this and they have begun to seek his territories. He seeks Arthur's permission to allow his knight, and Erbin's son, Geraint, to defend the land. He believes that Geraint would benefit more from defending the land in battle, rather than wasting time in tournaments, despite the renown that Geraint has earnt from them. Arthur promised to answer the men and bade they go and eat. He lamented how it would be difficult to part with Geraint and how his court would suffer, yet it would not be fair to deny Geraint the right to defend his father's lands. He also knew that Gwenhwyfar would miss the company of Enid, Geraint's wife, who had become close friends to the queen. In time, he summoned Geraint with his decision. He admits he would miss Geraint, but advises him to return and defend his father's lands. Plus, he was to take whatever provisions and soldiers he required and that he could seek the assistance of other knights of Arthur's court and whatever friends wished to join him. Likewise, Gwenhwyfar wanted to ensure Enid had a proper escort of her own. The messengers left ahead of Geraint, who followed a few days later with an entourage that included; Gwalchmai, son of Gwyar, Rhiogonedd, son of the King of Ireland, Ondiaw, son of the Duke of Burgundy, Gwilym, son of the King of France, Hywel, son of the King of Brittany, Elifri Anaw Cyrdd, Gwyn, son of Tringad, Gorau, son of Custennin, Gwair Gwrhyd Fawr, Garannaw, son of Golithmer, Peredur, son of Efrog, Gwyn Llogell Gwŷr, court justice to Arthur, Dyfyr, son of Alun Dyfed, Gwrei Gwalstawd Ieithoedd, Bedwyr, son of Bedrawd, Cadwri, son of Gwrion, Cai, son of Cynyr, Odiar the Frank, court steward to Arthur and Edern, son of Nudd, who was now fit to ride. However, Arthur deems that Edern cannot go unless Gwenhwyfar gives her express permission. At this, Gwenhwyfar allows Edern to go freely.

The retinue travelled across the Hafren where they met the noblemen of Erbin, son of Custennin, led by his foster-father and many of the ladies of the court sent by his mother, Enid, daughter of Ynywl, Erbin's wife. The people of the land were overjoyed to have Geraint return, given the fame he had earnt and the pride he brought to his land and people. They travelled to the court where they experienced many songs, games, drinks and food. The nobles of the land were invited to come and meet the famed Geraint. The next day, Geraint arose and was summoned by Erbin. The old king told his foster-son that he is now too old to manage the land and that the duty must now fall to Geraint. Geraint, however, admits that he wished his father would not do this now, nor take him from Arthur's court, but Erbin wills it so and that Geraint would receive homage of his men this very day. Suitors were permitted and Cadyriaith was tasked with considering the intentions of each. Arthur's own retinue came with gifts, followed by men from Cornwall, likewise with gifts. Some came to requests gifts and all were given when they had came for. The next day, messengers were sent to the men who would make homage to Geraint and to ask if any held any animosity towards Geraint. All of them responded positively and Geraint received homage from all. That third night, Arthur's retinue requested permission to depart. However, Geraint deemed it too soon and asked that they remain until he had finished receiving homage from all of his men, which they did and then departed. Geraint wished to escort them and so he went, with Enid, as far as Dynganwyr before they parted. Ondiaw, son of the Duke of Burgundy, advised Geraint to travel his lands to their very boundaries to inspect them and speak of any anxiety he feels there. Geraint did so and came to learn the furthest boundaries of his lands.

Enid and Geraint

As he had always done in the past, Geraint continued to join tournaments and built up the same reputation for bravery and prowess as he had done in Arthur's lands. He rewarded his nobles with the finest horses, armour and golden jewels. Following this he settled down, finding that there were none that could match him, and grew content with making love to his wife, songs and entertainment. However, he started to prefer remaining in his bedchambers with just his wife, and his noblemen felt they had been deserted by him, until there was mockery of him at his own court. When this reached Erbin, he went to Enid. She told him it was not by her manipulation in this and she hated the idea that her husband was thus mocked. She didn't want to tell him of this, and yet she could not hide this from him now that she knew of it. This caused Enid sleeplessness and one summer morning, the sun shined upon their bed in a chamber of glass, and she admired his handsome form as he slept. She was woeful that she might be responsible for causing him to lose his fame and reputation.

Enid's misunderstood words lead Geraint to drag his wife across the land.

She started to cry and her tears awoke him just in time for him to hear her words, but he came to assume that her words meant she was planning to meet another man as she thought him no longer adequate for her. To that end, he summoned a squire to prepare his horse and armour. He demanded that Enid dress in old clothes so she might go riding and vowed that he would show her he has not lost his strength and see how easy it would be for her to set him aside for the man she was thinking of. She was confused, but he declared she would understand soon. He marched to Erbin and asked that he watch the kingdom as he is going on a quest across England and told he would travel alone save one person. Arthur further reminded Geraint that many across the land had a score to settle with Geraint should he venture out.

Geraint presses his wife, Enid, to travel with him so he can prove himself man enough.

Geraint's horse was equipped with heavy, foreign armour and when he mounted he commanded Enid to go ahead of him. He said that no matter what she saw or heard of him, she should not turn back to him. And she was not to speak a single word to him, unless he spoke to her first. Geraint chose the wildest road, most likely to be infested with dangerous animals or thieves. When they came to a forest, four bandit-knights sighted the pair. They deemed they could easily take the listless and miserable-looking knight, steal his armour, horse and woman. Enid overheard the four but remembered she was ordered not to turn back to Geraint or speak to him. Ultimately, however, she deemed it better to die to Geraint's anger than the bandit-knights. She waited for him to catch up and told him of what the men said. Geraint replied that she should concern herself only with remaining silent and not turning back to him. He further said that her warning means nothing to him, knowing that she would wish him to die before the four men. One by one the bandit-knights charged with their lances but were each overthrown and killed. Geraint removed their armour and then tied together their horses. He commanded Enid to drive the four horses ahead of her and, as before, that she must not turn back nor speak to him. She promised she would try to obey. They continued on and came to a plain, wherein was a thicket from which three armoured knights came towards them upon armoured horses. The bandit-knights were pleased to see such prizes before them; many horses, armour and a woman, all guarded by a sullen, miserable knight. Once again, Enid overhears and is unable to keep quiet. She waited for Geraint and told him of what was said. Geraint remarked that he was more frustrated with her inability to remain quiet than the plots of these men. She replied that she didn't want him to be taken by surprise, but he berated her that he cared not for her concern. The knights attacked but he was able to effortlessly deflect the attack of the first and knock him out of his horse as with the subsequent two. He took their equipment and then added their horses to the other four and told Enid to drive the seven of them ahead of her. He then relented that it would be meaningless to demand her silence as she would not obey him. She proclaimed she will, but she cannot hide from him the hateful words of those she finds ahead of them, but he declared that he cares not for her concern. They left the thicket and crossed a pleasant land until they saw a thick forest with seemingly no end. As they neared, five bandit-knight emerged from that forest, each heavily clad in armour. Their horses were large, powerful beasts with great strength and also clad in heavy armour. They remarked their fortune at finding such an easy prize of horses, armour and a woman, all guarded by a miserable, lonesome knight. Though she hesitated, Enid chose again to warn her husband. He again berated her for her concern and instead threatened that she would regret not obeying his words yet again. He successfully killed the five knights and added their armour and horses to the train. He again ordered Enid to drive the, now twelve, horses ahead of her. Had his anger not been so great, he might have felt great pity at the sight of this woman struggling to drive twelve horses alone. He again ordered her to remain silent and not to turn back to him, though he doubted she would obey him yet again.

The Dun Earl

As they went through the deep forest, night fell and Geraint deemed it was not possible to keep going. They made camp and he said he was too tired, so she must keep watch that night over the horses while he slept, which she did. She remained thus until daybreak, but before she could wake him she found he was already rising. She commented that she would have liked to wake him some time ago, but he was angered by her speaking to him without permission again. He commanded she resume driving the twelve horses, which she did. They passed fields being reaped and came to a river where the horses drank. They climbed from the river to a tall hill where they found a slender boy with a towel about his neck. They noticed something was within the towel, but didn't know what it could be. He held a pitcher in his hands. When asked, the boy told them he is from the town ahead of them and Geraint told the boy that they had come from the forest just today. The boy offered up the breakfast he was transporting to the reapers, assuming that the two had slept in the forest with nought to eat. The pair washed and ate. The lad then asked permission to leave, so he could get a new breakfast for the reapers. Geraint agreed, but requested that he first go to town and procure them the best lodgings and a spacious stable for the horses. As payment, the lad could take whichever of the horses and the armour he liked. The boy remarked that was reward exceeding the service. The boy did as bid, but also visited the earl of the town to inform him of the event. The earl was happy to welcome such a knight to the town and the boy went back to guide Geraint to the lodgings. Geraint wished to go straight to the lodgings rather than meet the earl, so the boy took him there. Geraint and Enid changed their clothes, but then Geraint ordered Enid to one side of the chamber and said that she was not to cross to the other side of the house, but she could call upon a woman if needed. The next day, Geraint offered to play host to several of the finest men that the householder knew of, at Geraint's own expense, until the earl and eleven knights arrived and greeted Geraint. The earl noticed Enid and fell instantly in love with her beauty. He asked Geraint's permission to speak with her, believing Geraint and the maiden were estranged. Geraint gave permission and the earl spoke of how difficult Enid must suffer following Geraint, but Enid insists she would rather follow him than have a comfortable life. He offers her his entire earldom if she would marry him, but she denies the earl and tells him she promised herself to Geraint. The earl nastily states that if he kills Geraint, he would have her as long as he liked until he no longer wanted her and would throw her aside. But if she joined him willingly, then he promised to always love her. Enid thought on it, and decided to encourage the earl. She said that it would be best if the earl came the next day to carry her away, thus she could not be accused of infidelity. The earl agreed and he departed. In the middle of the night, Enid prepared Geraint's armour and weapons and then awoke him to tell him of the earl's intent. Geraint was still angry with her, but he prepared himself nonetheless. He asked for the householder and paid the man his due.

He gives the man the eleven horses and suits of armour he had acquired and the man says he had not even been worth a single armour. Geraint asked the man to guide him out of town, he opposite direction to which he had entered. The man did so, with Enid again kept ahead of Geraint. The householder returned home, but suddenly found himself and his house surrounded by eighty knights, headed by the Dun Earl (dun meaning 'dark brown' and referring to the man's armour). The earl was angry that the man let Geraint go, but the man told the earl where the knight went. The earl and his troop went out of town and found the horses' tracks and followed them to a wide highroad. Enid saw the enemy begin to emerge through the mist and went back to warn her husband. Geraint again chastises her and states her warning means nothing to him. Geraint turned and slew the incoming knight. He then proceeded to slay the seventy-nine other knights until he came to attack the Dun Earl himself. He used a spear to strike the earl and knock him to the ground. The earl begged for mercy, and Geraint gave it.

Y Brenin Bychan

They continued on until they saw a fair valley, where a bridge crossed a wide river towards a walled town. They approached the bridge, but were set upon by a man riding a tall, spirited horse. The man asked where they were headed. The man tells Geraint that the owner of the town is known as Gwiffred Petit (meaning 'Little Gwiffret' in French and 'The Little King' in Welsh, called Guivret le petit by Chétien) by the French, but Y Brenin Bychan by the Welsh. He warns Geraint not to cross the bridge unless he wishes to battle Y Brenin Bychan. Geraint declared he would go where he pleased, and the man warned he would be most humiliated when defeated. Geraint did not head to the town, but took a road along the ridge until a knight approached him. The knight rode a large horse, but the man himself was very short, though heavily armoured. The knight asked if Geraint meant insult by riding this restricted road, but Geraint claimed he did not know of this. The knight said he would, therefore, welcome Geraint to his court, due to his ignorance of the matter, but Geraint refused to enter any court unless King Arthur were the man's lord. Thee knight decreed that he would have recompense. They charged each other with lances and Geraint found the fight difficult as the man was so small a target to hit, yet his blows were so strong. They charged until the horses fell with fatigue and then they battled on foot with their swords. The combat was long and dangerous, with split armour and helmets until, at last, Geraint summoned up his rage and dealt a devastating blow. Y Brenin Bychan asked for mercy by God. Geraint gave it, but due to the man's rudeness, he decided that the knight would become Geraint's companion and follow him without disagreement and that should he hear Geraint in distress, he must intervene. Y Brenin Bychan agreed and asked Geraint to come and rest and recover at the town, but Geraint refused. He mounted, bleeding and injured, determined to continue, despite the advice of both the knight and Enid. Y Brenin Bychan was shocked to see the lady in such dire straits, but they continued on at Geraint's demand.

King Arthur

As they went, they came to a forest, all the while enduring great that made them sweat that mingled with their blood. Geraint overheard the hunting horns of King Arthur in the forest and considered how best to avoid the king, but he was seen by the king's steward, Cai. Though Geraint recognised Cai, Cai did not recognise Geraint. He asked what he was doing here, and Geraint affirmed he was going where he pleased. Cai asked him to come to Arthur, but Geraint refused and Cai threatened to force him. Though Cai began the fight, Geraint knocked Cai with his spear, causing him to fall head-first to the ground. Geraint wished not to harm him more than that and Cai retreated. Cai went to Gwalchmai's tent. Cai told his fellow knight that reports of a dishevelled, wounded knight were abroad and that Gwalchmai should investigate if it's true, to which Gwalchmai agreed. Cai said he should take his horse and armour as he had heard that this wounded knight is not very polite. Cai's fib worked and Gwalchmai went forth to find this stranger knight, not recognising Geraint. As Geraint again refused to attend Arthur, Gwalchmai felt forced to engage the stranger. They fought until they drew so close that Gwalchmai finally recognised Geraint and called him out. Geraint, however, denied that he was truly Geraint. Gwalchmai, however, then saw Enid and again asked Geraint to see Arthur, specifying that Arthur is his lord and cousin. Geraint refused, as he felt he was unworthy in his present state. Gwalchmai whispered to his squire to send word to Arthur of the situation.

Morgan Tud and the physicians tend to Geraint's wounds.

He told the squire to ask Arthur to move his tent close to the road, so that Geraint could not sneak by. Gwalchmai went with Geraint and Enid along the road until they were discovered by Arthur's tent, which had moved to the road as Gwalchmai requested. Arthur did not even recognise Geraint in his condition until told his identity and he saw Enid. He asked Enid what they were doing and she confessed she did not know, except that she must follow Geraint. Geraint asked permission to continue, but Arthur refused as he saw that the only travelling Geraint would do was to his grave. Despite further requests, Arthur refused them all and Geraint was forced to remain. Enid went to the tent of Gwenhwyfar, who rejoiced to see Enid again, and changed from her worn, riding dress. Cadyriaith was summoned by Arthur to erect a tent for Geraint and physicians to tend to him. Cadyriaith did so and brought Morgan Tud as his apprentice to heal Geraint. There they remained a month until Geraint felt well enough to leave and asked permission of Arthur. However, Arthur stated that he would not believe the word of Geraint on this subject, but his physicians. Morgan Tud was summoned and affirmed it was true, so Geraint was permitted to resume his journey and Arthur's own retinue departed too.

Reconciliation with Enid

Enid was made to ride ahead as usual. As they rode, a terrible scream arose. Geraint told Enid to remain while he went to investigate. Ahead on the rode, Geraint found two horses and nearby their riders - a knight, slain on the ground, and a woman shrieking over him. When asked, she told Geraint that three giants came up to them and murdered her husband without provocation. She told him they went down the highroad. Geraint went to Enid and told her to meet with widow and stay there with her. Enid did so, but was sure Geraint would not return for her.

He rode out and caught up to the giants. Each one was the size of three men and each of them wielded a large club. Geraint charged them and thrust his spear through one of them. He pulled the spear free and stabbed the next. The third, however, caught him with the club, which caused Geraint's shield to shattered and break, forcing the club to Geraint's shoulder. This caused his wounds to reopen and spill blood. In anger, Geraint drew his sword and rained down a flurry of pitiless blows upon the giant's skull. Then dead, Geraint left the giants corpses and went back to Enid. When he saw her, he fell from his horse as though dead and Enid screamed terribly. Within the forest, Earl Limwris (likely a foreign name as it does not use the Welsh 'Ll'.) overheard the sudden scream and came to investigate. The women explained the situation of the giants. The fallen knight was buried, but the earl detected some life yet in Geraint and he was placed upon shields to be carried away. They go to the earl's court and Geraint was placed upon the table in the hall, still on the stretcher.

Earl Limwris makes an unwelcome proposal to Enid as Geraint lies dying.

He asked Enid to go and change, but she refused and remained with Geraint. The earl asked that she should not be so sad and that if Geraint died, he would marry her himself and she would ruled over a great earldom. She vouched she would never be happy so long as she lived. The earl asked her to eat, but she refused. He then proceeded to drag her to the food and ordered her to eat. She refused to eat until Geraint had eaten. The earl deemed the man all but dead. He offered her wine, so she would feel better. She refused again. The earl then struck her. Enid cried out, knowing that she would not be hit in such a fashion if Geraint were still alive. The scream, however, brought Geraint back to his senses. He snatched his sword and cleaved the earl's skull. The people in the court fled, seeing a dead man rise to slay them. Geraint finally saw Enid clearly and guilt washed over him as he realised she had been right all along. Geraint found his horse, lifted Enid up and placed her between himself and the horse's neck. They rode away, but as they went they saw spear-shafts following, and could hear the clatter of hooves. Eventually one knight caught up to them, so Geraint put Enid behind a hedge and turned to face the knight, who prepared his lance.

Geraint and Enid are reconciled as they ride away together at last.

However, the knight turned out to be Y Brenin Bychan, come to aid Geraint upon hearing the trouble he was in. Enid was given a squire's horse, and they rode to the local baron's court. They remained at his court for a month and a fortnight, healing under the supervision of physicians and Y Brenin Bychan had Geraint's armour repaired. Eventually Y Brenin Bychan asked they travel to his own court with him, but Geraint asked for an additional day before they would return. The trio rode along the highroad until they came to a fork and met a man travelling. They asked which road was best and the man advised against one of the roads as it was a land steeped in mist and within were enchanted 'games' (illusory tricks). He said that Earl Owain's lodgings were there but he allowed no one to stay at his court and none returned from those lands. Geraint was determined to take that road and they went forth.

The Game in the Mist

Geraint rides past the skulls of previous knights that fell in the enchanted mist.

They reached the town, but a youth approached them and explained that it was not the custom of the town's lord to allow strangers to reside there and, instead, must stay at the earl's court. They agreed and went with the squire and were welcomed at court. Geraint, however, remembered the news of the illusion and requested he be given permission to venture forth, which the earl granted, but wished that this game had never begun in his lands. He armed himself and was led along towards the games, where they saw heads mounted on stakes (presumably those that lost the games) and there were many. When Y Brenin Bychan asked if any may accompany Geraint on this game, he was denied. Earl Owain advised that Geraint take the path that suited him best and bade him fortune. Fearless, Geraint marched into the mist.

The pavilion at the centre of the mist, where Geraint chooses to sit.

Before long he emerged in a clearing where there was a pavilion of brocaded silk and a red canopy that was open. Inside there was only a single maiden, who sat upon a golden chair and there was an empty chair opposite her, into which sat Geraint. The maiden quickly advised that he not sit there as the man who owns said chair does not permit others to sit in it. Geraint dismissed this, but there was a sudden noise outside. There was a heavily armoured knight who rode an equally armoured horse. When asked who gave him permission to sit, Geraint confessed it was his own choice. The knight demanded combat for the insulting presumption of Geraint. Geraint immediately takes up the challenge and they battle, first breaking several lances before Geraint, with fury, manages to break his opponent's shield and knock him to the ground. Geraint drew his sword with the intention to slay the fallen foe. The knight plead for mercy and Geraint demanded that this game be ended and the mist dropped from the land and the knight accepted this. All that Geraint needed to do, as the man that defeated him, was to sound the horn and the mist would vanish. Thus done, the mist dispelled and the earl was relieved, as was Enid, for her husband's safety. The next day, Y Brenin Bychan returned to his own court, as did Geraint and Enid at last. They were both praised and celebrated by the people and ruled for years to come.