The Tale of Wild Tristan
The Book of Taliesin

The Tale of Wild Tristan

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A depiction of Wild Tristan
A depiction of Wild Tristan



In the land of Fall stood a formidable figure known as Wild Tristan, whose strength and courage were renowned far and wide. Yet, his prowess was not merely physical but also in his audacity to challenge anyone who crossed his path.

“If anyone is crazier than me, stronger than me, come out! Let me take the measure of you right here!”

Seeking fame and glory, he would boldly proclaim his superiority, daring others to prove otherwise.

However, as time passed, Wild Tristan found fewer opponents willing to face him, prompting him to seek new ways to assert his dominance. He decided to build a bridge over a dry stream, charging thirty coins to those who passed and forty coins to those who did not, believing it would serve as a battleground where he could display his valor and bravery. Little did he know that fate had other plans in store for him.

A cry for help reached Wild Tristan's ears one day, leading him to a grieving family mourning the loss of their beloved tribe member. 
Wild Tristan came out from wherever he was. He ended up at the head of the shepherd:

“What impudence! Are you thirsty for blood! Why do you keep shouting?
 You woke me up from my beauty sleep. Now let me shoot your head so that you will never disturb anyone again.” and drew his sword.

An elderly, wise man came to Wild Tristan and said, “We had a brave who was the favorite of our tribe. He is dead. What should we do if not cry and moan?”

Wild Tristan got angry and said, Who killed your brave? Who else but me would take life here!” 


 The old man said:"Arawn with the dark horse came and took the life of our brave.  

Wild Tristan was suddenly enraged: “Hey, who is Arawn to take a life! Let me kill him so that he will never take anyone’s life again!” He drove away.
 

A depiction of Arawn
A depiction of Arawn

His impudent words did not go unnoticed by the divine realm, who decided to teach Wild Tristan a lesson. When Arawn appeared before him, Wild Tristan was overcome with fear, realizing the gravity of his words. Yet, even in the face of imminent death, he pleaded for mercy, acknowledging his folly.

Moved by Wild Tristan's heartfelt plea, the divine realm spared his life but instructed Death to take the lives of his parents instead. Despite his attempts to find someone willing to sacrifice their life for his, Wild Tristan's parents refused, leaving him with no choice but to accept his fate.

As he bid farewell to his loved ones, Wild Tristan's beloved, İseult, displayed unwavering loyalty and devotion, expressing her willingness to die in his place. Her sacrifice touched Wild Tristan deeply, and he praised the divine realm for her love and devotion.

A depiction of İseult
A depiction of İseult

"Let me build almshouses on great roads for you. If I see the hungry, I will feed them for you.
If I see you naked, I’ll dress you. If you’re going to take our lives together!
If not, leave us both together! Divine Beings!"


Wild Tristan's impassioned appeals resonated with the divine realm. Throughout those years, Wild Tristan and İseult remained inseparable companions, their union celebrated for generations to come. They were blessed with prosperity and abundance, their legacy echoing through the mountains and valleys, ensuring their lineage endured with honor and dignity.