The Book of the Western Veil

The Last Prince | Chapter Three — Cadwgan's Grove

December 1282. As Llywelyn ap Gruffudd approaches Buallt Castle, Edmund Mortimer watches the Welsh prince's movements from the cover of Cadwgan's Grove.

With his brother Roger, Edmund has positioned his men along the Wye, keeping their movements hidden from the Welsh army at Llysdinam. The roads and crossings are being watched, and the Mortimers have plans of their own for Llywelyn's arrival at Builth.

But the English lords are not entirely united. Edmund has little faith in John Giffard, the castle's commander, whose concern for his honour may interfere with the king's intentions.

Meanwhile, Ceri Cadwgan, a resourceful young girl fleeing her family's plans for her future, struggles to survive the December cold. Her knowledge of the local countryside may prove far more valuable than the food she has been stealing.

When her path crosses that of the Mortimers, an unexpected negotiation begins.

Cadwgan's Grove is Chapter Three of The Last Prince, a standalone historical novel by Elwyn Davies, set within Book of the Western Veil.

Further information about the novel, including preorder details, is available at https://www.bookofthewesternveil.com/.

December 1282. Llywelyn ap Gruffudd has reached Buallt, but the welcome awaiting him remains uncertain.

From the unfinished ramparts of Builth Castle, John Giffard watches the Welsh prince and his household guard on the opposite bank of the Wye. His orders from Edward Longshanks are clear, although the English lord has his own understanding of honour and the obligations of hospitality.

Weeks earlier, at Rhuddlan Castle, Giffard had been summoned before the English king to account for the disastrous defeat at Menai. Their conversation reveals how Edward intends to bring an end to Llywelyn's resistance, and what he expects of the Marcher lords.

Meanwhile, Dulon ap Meurig accompanies the prince through the English-held town. The castle gates remain closed, soldiers watch from the walls, and even Gwion is beginning to question the reception that awaits them.

Castle Walls is Chapter Two of The Last Prince, a standalone historical novel by Elwyn Davies, set within Book of the Western Veil.

Discover more about the novel and preorder at https://www.bookofthewesternveil.com/.

The Last Prince | Chapter One — Wolf at the Ford

December 1282. A month after the Welsh victory at Menai, Llywelyn ap Gruffudd rides south towards Buallt Castle, seeking the support of the Marcher lords.

Among his household guard is Dulon ap Meurig, a seventeen-year-old trapper who has recently lost his father. Under the care of Gwion, a veteran captain and old family friend, Dulon is still finding his place among the prince's men.

As they follow the River Wye, Gwion tells him of Caer Fawr, the ancient capital of the Cymroth, and a Welsh history reaching back to the scattering of Babel. The English are quarrying stone beneath the old ruins, while the castle they are building across the river awaits the prince's arrival.

But before Llywelyn's company can reach the ford, a black wolf emerges from the winter snow. Its appearance brings the column to a halt, and Dulon is called forward with his bow.

Wolf at the Ford is Chapter One of The Last Prince, a standalone historical novel by Elwyn Davies, set within Book of the Western Veil.

Discover more about the novel and preorder at https://www.bookofthewesternveil.com/.

The Prologue of The Last Prince begins in the middle of the Battle of Moel-y-don. An English army commanded by Luke de Tany has crossed from Anglesey over a temporary bridge of boats, bringing armoured infantry and horsemen into Gwynedd.

The Welsh are fighting uphill from the mainland shore, with the English pressing against their shield wall. Gwion, an experienced captain who has served Prince Llywelyn ap Gruffudd for forty summers, struggles to hold the line while his oldest friend, Meurig, is gravely wounded by an English spear.

As the Welsh withdraw to a prepared defensive position, a storm builds over the Menai Strait. Strong winds, heavy rain and dangerous currents begin to destabilise the English bridge. Horses panic, soldiers become trapped on the crossing, and the English advance loses momentum.

Gwion recognises the opportunity and leads a Welsh counterattack. Llywelyn's mounted men strike the English flank, turning the battle into a rout. The Welsh sing Hiraeth as the English attempt to retreat across the failing bridge. De Tany's horse falls into the water, taking its rider with it.

Amid the victory, Gwion searches for his wounded friend. Meurig, the prince's smith, asks him to care for his seventeen-year-old son, Dulon. Before dying, he also reveals that Gwion's sword bears a symbol whose true meaning is known to very few.

The Prologue ends with Gwion beside Meurig's body, promising to treat Dulon as his own.

Main characters:

• Gwion: Welsh veteran captain, in his fifties, with forty summers in Llywelyn's household guard. The Prologue's viewpoint character.
• Meurig: The prince's smith, Gwion's oldest friend and father of Dulon ap Meurig.
• Llywelyn ap Gruffudd: Prince of Wales and commander of the Welsh forces.
• Luke de Tany: English commander whose troops cross the Menai Strait from Anglesey.
• Rhodri: A younger Welsh spearman who fights beside Gwion during the battle.
• Dulon ap Meurig: Seventeen-year-old son of Meurig. He does not appear directly in the Prologue but becomes the novel's principal protagonist.

Important themes: Welsh resistance, loyalty, friendship, sacrifice, the preservation of Welsh identity, hiraeth, and the inheritance of older traditions.

Mythological connection: The three interwoven leaves on Gwion's sword conceal a meaning beyond their Christian interpretation as a symbol of the Trinity. Meurig's knowledge of that meaning connects the historical narrative to the deeper mythology of Book of the Western Veil.

Important context: The Last Prince is a standalone historical novel and part of the wider Book of the Western Veil saga. The Prologue depicts a Welsh victory, not Llywelyn's final battle. His death occurs several weeks later, in December 1282, near Builth.

Want to become an advanced reader, and get your hands on a free digital copy of The Lion of Shinar? Be One Of Us!

Music featured in this episode

This episode features original music from The Lion of Shinar – A 1-Hour Musical Companion, a collection of orchestral and folk-inspired compositions written to accompany the novel.

Listen on Spotify:

The Lion of Shinar – A 1-Hour Musical Companion

About this story

Keep Your Head is a standalone short story from The Book of the Western Veil, written and narrated by Elwyn Davies.

Beginning during the Great Flood and continuing into its aftermath, it follows a young boy whose life is changed forever as the old world disappears beneath the rising waters. Alongside him walks a stranger carrying the weight of choices that will echo through generations.

Although it stands on its own, Keep Your Head also serves as an introduction to The Lion of Shinar, the first novel in The Book of the Western Veil. Set in ancient Mesopotamia before the written word, the series draws on archaeology, early history and mythology to tell the forgotten stories behind some of the world's oldest traditions.

Discover more at bookofthewesternveil.com.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we delve into the profound themes of transformation and survival during the Great Flood, encapsulated through the journey of a young boy and a mysterious stranger.
• The narrative intertwines mythology and early history, providing a rich backdrop for the exploration of human resilience amidst catastrophic change.
• Listeners are invited to listen to the original music from *The Lion of Shinar*, which serves as a melodic companion to the storytelling experience.
• This episode serves not only as a standalone short story but also as an introduction to the expansive world of *The Book of the Western Veil*, inviting further exploration into its intricate lore.
• Elwyn Davies, the author and narrator, emphasizes the importance of patience and attention in engaging with the narratives within *The Book of the Western Veil*, suggesting that deeper meanings await those who delve into the text.

In this chapter from "The Furrow," we are introduced to the young Kabtu, who, at nearly seven summers old, harbors dreams of becoming a great warrior and hunter, in defiance of his father's expectations for him to be a farmer. The narrative unfolds in the ancient setting of Ur, Southern Mesopotamia, circa 4000 BC, where Kabtu's day begins amidst the sounds of nature and his father's calls for assistance in the fields. As the boy reluctantly engages in the labor of picking stones, a significant discovery arises: an unusual and valuable axe head, suggesting a deeper history and potential ramifications for his family. The dynamics between Kabtu, his father Eber, and his friend Puzur illustrate the tensions between aspiration and obligation, setting the stage for future conflicts and revelations. This episode encapsulates themes of identity, heritage, and the harsh realities of life in an ancient agricultural society. Set against the backdrop of ancient Mesopotamia, The Furrow weaves a compelling tale of Kabtu, a young boy poised to embrace the complexities of life as he turns seven summers old. From the outset, the narrative immerses listeners in the marshy environment of Ur, where Kabtu's imagination fuels his desire to become a warrior, a stark contrast to the agricultural life he is expected to lead. His father, Eber, represents the weight of tradition and obligation, urging Kabtu to embrace his role as a farmer in a world where survival depends on the toil of the land. This tension between aspiration and duty serves as a central theme, inviting listeners to reflect on the universal struggle for identity amidst societal expectations. The discovery of an extraordinary stone—an axe head—during a routine task of stone picking becomes a turning point in the narrative. Eber's realization of its value propels them into the realm of trade and negotiation, highlighting the importance of resourcefulness in an era defined by scarcity and conflict. The interactions with the trader Rim-Adad not only expose the economic realities of their existence but also underscore the fragility of trust in a world riddled with danger. The stakes are raised as the characters navigate the dual challenges of securing their livelihoods while facing the threats posed by rival factions, further illuminating the precarious nature of life in this ancient society. As the story progresses, the friendship between Kabtu and Puzur introduces a dynamic interplay of innocence and rivalry, reflecting the trials of youth against the backdrop of impending responsibilities. Their playful wrestling matches serve as a metaphor for the broader struggles they face as they transition from childhood into an uncertain future. The narrative crescendos with Eber's urgent plea regarding a missing blade, an event that intertwines Kabtu's aspirations with the family's survival. This intricate tapestry of ambition, familial obligation, and the relentless passage of time resonates deeply, offering listeners a profound meditation on the intergenerational conflicts that define the human experience.

Takeaways:

• The narrative unfolds in ancient Ur, circa 4000 BC, illustrating the daily life of Kabtu, a young boy nearing his seventh summer.
• Kabtu's aspirations to become a warrior conflict with his father's insistence on his agricultural duties, revealing generational tensions.
• The discovery of a unique axe head highlights the significance of tools and trade in the lives of ancient Mesopotamian farmers.
• The market scene vividly depicts the bustling economy of Ur, emphasizing the interaction between traders and farmers in a competitive environment.
• Kabtu's relationship with his father is central to the story, showcasing themes of familial expectations and the struggle for identity in a historical context.
• The contrast between Kabtu's adventurous spirit and the realities of farming life serves to illustrate the challenges faced by youth in ancient societies.

Long before the kingdoms of men, the Dragon Wars scarred the world and drove the ancient ones from the lands of the living.

But one remained.

Bound by an oath to Arawn, King of Annwn, he withdrew beneath the mountain and waited for the day he would be needed once more.

In this dramatic reading from The Book of the Western Veil, Arawn walks the mist-covered paths of Annwn alongside the Cŵn Annwn, unaware that an ancient promise is about to be fulfilled.

Featuring an original orchestral ballad inspired by Welsh mythology, this episode explores memory, duty, friendship, and the enduring bonds that survive the passing of ages.

Featured Characters

• Arawn, King of Annwn
• Cadarn, the ancient red dragon
• The Cŵn Annwn

From The Book of the Western Veil

A thirty-novel mythological epic blending Welsh mythology, ancient history, and recovered legend.

"The story of Nimrod and Babel deserves more than a footnote in the bible."

Connect

Website: https://bookofthewesternveil.com

Follow for more dramatic readings, fireside tales, ballads, and recovered accounts from the Western Veil.

The Dragon Wars commenced on the eighth day, marking a pivotal moment in the fabric of existence, where the seams of the world were irrevocably cast into fire. This episode delves into the profound implications of Brenin Fawr's actions, as he, driven by haste and a sense of grievance, sought to confront the boundaries imposed by divine order. His departure from the collective will of the host led to a fracture that rippled through the very essence of creation, revealing the consequences of abandoning one’s responsibilities. As the conflict unfolded, the ancient beings faced a reality that would alter their destinies, with the looming threat of unmaking casting a shadow over their inheritance. Thus, we are compelled to contemplate the enduring echoes of this fateful day and the inexorable march toward the Second Dawn, where the true cost of ambition and rebellion is laid bare.

The profound narrative encapsulates the intricate dynamics of creation and conflict within the cosmos as articulated through the lens of the ancient beings known as the Ancient Ones. Their labor, which culminated in the crafting of the world, remains unacknowledged, as they find themselves overshadowed by God's children who claim dominion over the inheritance of their efforts. The thematic essence of this podcast episode revolves around the tension between creation and destruction, particularly as it pertains to the actions of Brenin Fawr, the Great King of the Dragons. As the episode unfolds, we witness the seismic shifts in the fabric of existence precipitated by the refusal of the Ancient Ones to accept their relegation. The narrative reaches a crescendo as Brenin Fawr, driven by a fierce sense of loss and betrayal, ventures forth into the unknown in search of Eden, a realm untouched by the turmoil that grips the world he once knew.

Brenin's actions catalyze the onset of the Dragon Wars, an epic conflict that reshapes the destinies of all beings involved. The metaphorical veil that separates realms becomes a significant focal point, symbolizing not only the barriers imposed by divine will but also the existential struggles faced by those seeking freedom from oppressive structures. As the host of dragons grapples with the implications of their choices, the listener is drawn into a rich tapestry of emotions ranging from despair to defiance. The episode artfully navigates themes of identity, legacy, and the relentless pursuit of autonomy, culminating in the poignant realization that every act of creation carries the weight of consequence, echoing through time and space.

In the aftermath of the conflict, Brenin Fawr confronts the harsh reality of his hastily made decisions. His journey back to the world he left behind reveals a landscape irrevocably altered, marked by the scars of war and the disintegration of unity among the once cohesive host. This episode poignantly illustrates the cost of ambition and the bitter truth that even the mightiest of beings can falter when faced with the consequences of their actions. The haunting refrain of the 'Song of the Stars' serves as a prophetic reminder of the cyclical nature of creation and destruction, enthralling listeners with its lyrical resonance and thematic depth, ultimately leading to the poignant designation of Brenin Fawr as the Unmaker, a title that encapsulates the tragic irony of his legacy.

Takeaways:

1. The echoes of the eighth day profoundly influence our existence and identity.
2. The Ancient Ones experienced significant loss, as their creation was claimed by a higher power.
3. Brenin Fawr, the Great King of the Dragons, faced grave consequences for his actions.
4. The tension between the forces of creation and destruction leads to inevitable conflict.
5. The veil represents a significant barrier that no power could easily breach.
6. The beginning of the Dragon Wars marks a pivotal moment in the struggle for existence.

The main salient point of this episode centers on the profound deliberation among the Ancient Ones regarding the stewardship of creation, particularly the vineyard and the enigmatic realm of Eden. As God rested on the seventh day, the natural order was established, yet a palpable tension arose as the Titans, Jotnar, and Dragons convened to contemplate their authority over the lands beyond what had been explicitly given to them. The absence of divine communication prompted a discourse on possession and the implications of inaction, as they grappled with the weight of their responsibilities and the unspoken purpose of Eden. Cadarn’s caution against striking at what is sacred, coupled with Brenin’s assertion of the need for direct divine engagement, underscores the gravity of their predicament. Ultimately, as the council dispersed, the horizon shifted, marking the transition into a new epoch, laden with uncertainty and the potential for conflict.

The narrative unfolds in a solemn atmosphere, delineating the aftermath of God's rest on the seventh day, a period where the established order of creation persists, yet a palpable tension lingers among the Ancient Ones. The vineyard, having been entrusted into their stewardship, remains untouched, while Eden exists as a distant, untouched domain, evoking a sense of longing and unresolved purpose. The gathering of Titans, Jotnar, and Dragons at a council signifies a deliberation of cosmic consequences, as they ponder the implications of God's silence and the potential reclamation of what they perceive as unattended dominion. Within this assembly, Brenin Fawr emerges as a pivotal figure, articulating the labors that have shaped the world, while Cadarn underscores the distinction between possession and the ungranted nature of Eden, igniting a discourse on inheritance and rightful claim. The atmosphere thickens as Ysgar's declaration of labor given without regard compels a reconsideration of their responsibilities. The dialogue escalates when Iapetus and Kronos voice a provocative challenge to the divine order, suggesting a readiness to seize what is left unguarded. The gravity of this council culminates in a silent affirmation of intentions, as the Ancient Ones depart, leaving the vineyard intact yet shrouded in uncertainty, foreshadowing the inevitable confrontation with divine authority as the eighth day dawns, heralding a significant transformation in the fabric of creation.

Takeaways:

1. On the seventh day, God rested, establishing an order that the world adhered to without deviation, marking a significant pause in creation.
2. The Ancient Ones, responsible for the stewardship of the vineyard, did not return to their labor, leading to an unsettling stillness in the world.
3. Eden remained untouched and distinct, a realm set apart from the labor of the Ancient Ones, embodying a profound contrast to the vineyard they had tended.
4. In their council, the Titans and other ancient beings confronted the implications of possessing the vineyard while Eden remained unnamed, highlighting a tension in their stewardship.
5. As the council unfolded, the discourse regarding the potential opposition to God revealed the precarious balance of power and the weight of responsibility among the Ancient Ones.
6. The conclusion of the council left the Titans contemplating the fate of the vineyard and Eden, emphasizing the urgency of their decisions in the face of divine silence.

The sixth day of creation marks a pivotal moment in the genesis narrative, wherein the earth yields living creatures, including humanity, fashioned in the image of God. This episode delves into the complexities of creation, detailing the emergence of both beasts and man, and the profound implications of their existence. The narrative reveals the initial strains that arise in the wake of creation, as questions of purpose and judgment permeate the environment. Brenin Fawr, a central figure, grapples with the consequences of his labor, observing the transition from destruction to the emergence of new life, while wrestling with the weight of responsibility. Ultimately, this discourse raises significant reflections on authority, service, and the inherent nature of existence itself, serving as a cautionary tale regarding the delicate balance between creation and rebellion.

The narrative of the Sixth Day of Creation unfolds with a profound exploration of the emergence of life and the inherent tensions that arise within the fabric of existence. The account, meticulously recorded by Brother Wyn of Caermynach in Anno Domini 918, delineates the pivotal moments when the earth yields living creatures—cattle, beasts, and creeping things—imbued with the breath of life. This act of creation culminates in the formation of humanity, shaped in the divine image, an event that heralds both potential and peril. As the story progresses, it becomes apparent that the initial harmony is disrupted by the remnants of earlier creations, leaving a landscape marked by loss and unanswered questions. The protagonist, Brenin Fawr, grapples with the weight of responsibility and the philosophical implications of his creations, pondering the nature of existence and the reasons behind the destruction that has unfolded. The episode delves into themes of purpose versus execution, the duality of creation and destruction, and the search for meaning in a world steeped in uncertainty, ultimately reflecting on the fragile balance between divine intent and the chaotic reality of life.

Takeaways:

1. The creation of humanity on the sixth day marks a significant moment in the narrative of existence.
2. Brenin Fawr's reflections illustrate the tension between creation and the consequences of existence.
3. The emergence of living beings illustrates a divine order that seeks balance and purpose.
4. The relationship between creator and creation reveals profound philosophical implications regarding service and inheritance.