This was written at the request of my dear friend, Gwennan of House Windbourne, whose foster daughter married the Reeve in the Shire. I carefully worked in details about their courtship and their SCA family relationships. I sang the song at the rehearsal dinner and again at the reception. The mundane parents were overwhelmed that a song had been written for their children, and everyone had to have copies. Truly, a moment that made me realize how compelling these kinds of ballads are that chronicle the important moments in people's lives. (1993 Tune & Lyrics by Rhiannon Redwulf).

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The Bride Price of Dyver

Ragnar tapped Ciaran on the shoulder
to point to the lady Dyfer.
Ciaran fell in love with the honey blonde hair
and swan skin of Aeddan’s daughter.
But unfortunately...

Refrain:
The bride price went up and up and up and up,
for the young Reeve has lost his heart.
But Ciaran cannot leave the Lady Dyver
he can’t even make a start.

Dyver’s mother was Gwennen of Windbourne
who looked at the Reeve and saw,
a strong young back for the Green Man Tavern.
So she taught her daughter to sew,
so that...

Refrain
           
Dyver was given a red dress of velvet.
by the Lady of Lakediamonia.
Ciaran saw the dress, and was filled with regret,
for the dress only raised his debt.
Because...
           
Refrain

Now then, Gwennen has not lost a daughter
but has gained a feast hall server.
So Ciaran wears a green man on his tabbard,
and cuts carrots as he ponders,
How...
           
Refrain

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