Briefing for Dermot

Of the senior covenfolk, Dermot is the one who knows the cattle herders the best. I am not sure if he himself is born to the clan, but he works with them, whenever violence threatens either the covenant or the clan, so he is the first to hear any rumours.

Cattle raids is a constant threat in Hibernia. The covenant herders have been pestered quite a lot by their cousins of clan Ua Cathail lately. Last year, they lost some cattle when they were taking them down to the market in An Scairbh. Now the clan chief says that it is enough. This year «we ought to strike first».

You are well aware that the clan elders, as well as some young and brave upstarts, discuss raiding strategies over supper almost every night. You also know that Oswald try to hold back, and not engage in more violence than strictly necessary.