Introduction Section

Máiréad was raised by her Seanmháthair, her adoptive human grandmother, after she was found on the beach. Growing up in a small cottage along Ireland’s western coast she appeared to live a relatively ordinary life, but she and her Seanmháthair hid an extraordinary secret. As the elderly woman’s death approached, she revealed a letter from a loyal guard detailing an extraordinary royal heritage, and an intricate silver chain with pearls included in the design. As she read the letter, Máiréad found out that not only does she have a family, but that it connected her to the ancient Selkie legends of Ireland.

The Discovery

“…I followed her to be sure she would treat you well and followed that visit with several a year since then. I was nearby in the ocean when you swam several times and I was glad to see the old woman hadn’t denied you your rightful heritage as a Selkie. Shortly after you turned ten I came to see the old woman so she would know your story. I gave her some pearls so you two would want for nothing and promised to always check on you until it was safe to take you home. The only way she was allowed to tell you your story before I did was if she were to die. I gave her permission to share all of this if she found herself on her deathbed and I was not around.

Sadly, if you are reading this it means that has come to pass and now you are about to be alone. Please hear me when I say to you, it is unwise to come home right now. I am aware of how lonely and frightening this time must be for you but I need you to stay strong and stay where you are. I come to see the old woman several times a year. If you leave a colored sheet on the clothesline I’ll know it means you are alone and I will come and knock on the door and we will figure out what to do next…”

The Silver Chain

Máiréad did as the letter asked and opened the box. It was a long silver chain with pearls strung on it. As a girl it was much too big for her. But as a seal it would fit around her neck and body perfectly. She looked down at the links and could imagine how it would feel to wear it.

The old woman just watched as a thousand questions and expressions flickered across Máiréad’s face. She wished it had been an easier life for Máiréad but she was so pleased with how she had grown up. Máiréad was kind and thoughtful and smart and funny and beautiful and she was so proud of her.

The Queen’s Secrets

…”What you see is the real ascension jewelry. Only the heir to the throne is allowed to wear it so I took it when your mother disappeared and I knew you were alive. The Selkie currently on the throne told everyone your mother was wearing it when she disappeared so they don’t suspect it was taken, they think it is lost. When you decide the time is right to return you’ll need this piece as part of the proof that you are your mother’s daughter. The second piece of proof is the family tree. Each descendent puts their mark on the tree and they are kept strictly secret outside the family so the fact that you have this tree will also help prove who you are. Finally, there is the map. It is a map to where the Selkie treasure is kept. This is only given to the woman that rules so there is no way you could have this map, or know what it means, if you had not been her daughter“…

Máiréad’s Journey Ahead

With her Seanmháthair’s health failing and the truth of her heritage revealed, Máiréad stands at the threshold between two worlds. The silver chain with pearls represents not just her royal lineage, but the weight of responsibility that comes with it. Her journey to claim her rightful place as the Selkie Queen has only just begun.