Muirenn (Muirne)

Muirenn, or Muirne as she known in English narratives, was the Danann daughter of Tadg and granddaughter of Nuada of the Silver Hand. She was often called "Muirne of the White Neck".

Frequently, it was mentioned that Muirenn had two sisters – the druidess Bodhmall and Uirne (or Tuirne), who was the mother of twin hounds, Bran and Sceolang.

Because her father was serving as adviser to Conn Cétchathach, high king of Ireland, Muirenn met and fell in love with Cumhaill. Cumhaill was a young Fianna captain and chieftain of Clan Baiscne. Despite her father's objection, Muirenn refused to return to the Sidhe (Otherworld), and married Cumhaill.

Muirenn fell pregnant shortly before Cumhaill became embroiled in a clan war against Clan Morna, led by Goll Mac Morna. Cumhaill was killed in battle and Clan Baiscne was defeated. Goll became the captain of the Fianna.

Instead of returning to her father, Muirenn and her two aged nurses fled from her home to Sleive Bloom, where she later gave birth to Demna (Finn Mac Cumhaill). For her son's safety, she left her son with the two nurses while she tried to lead her enemies away from her son.

Muirenn found safety in Munster, where she married the king of Munster. Due to this marriage, the king of Munster was always a strong supporter of the Clan Baiscne. When the war erupted between the Clan Baiscne against the high king Cairbre Lifechair, Munster was the only province to support the Clan Baiscne.