D is for Dinnshenchas – A to Z Challenge

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The fourth story in my April A to Z Blog challenge I found riding about on the back of an enormous bull grazing in a field in western Colorado. Which is odd, considering it originates in Ireland. Then again, Aine is Goddess of cattle and protector of women, and would thusly be anywhere they are.

The myths tell a tale of violence and rape, and out of Aine’s grief and anger, the Dinnshenchas were born, dwarf fairies able to take any shape to guard cattle and to help avenge women harmed by men.

There are plenty of stories of shape shifters within the fantasy genre. And plenty of rape as well, depending on the sub-genre. But here we have something of a different story altogether. A race of paranormal beings hell bent on handing out justice. Shape shifters with a unique purpose. A motivation beyond survival. Something not so commonly seen within the fantasy genre. Plot nugget.

k.