Cormac Brennan Darragh
Ard Tiarna Cormac Brennan Darragh (a.k.a. Mac, Rónán, Bearach, Bear, Maccan, An Cú, Cern, Macán, Big Lad, Keeper, Watcher)
Physical Description
General Physical Condition
Cormac is in excellent physical shape, with a lean, wiry build shaped by years of tending to the manor grounds and maintaining an active lifestyle.
His agility is well-developed, though he occasionally experiences lingering aches from past injuries.
He has no serious illnesses or afflictions, but his mental resilience, honed through isolation, sometimes causes him to suppress his physical needs when under stress.
Body Features
Height: Cormac stands at 6'4", a towering presence that can be intimidating at first glance. His height gives him an almost dominant presence in any room or space, but he doesn’t carry himself with arrogance or showiness. Instead, he moves with a quiet, deliberate grace that belies his imposing stature.
Weight: At around 250-280 pounds, Cormac's body is muscular and solid, reflecting a life of physical work and endurance. His frame is broad, with wide shoulders and a chest that suggests strength without excess bulk. While his size might be initially off-putting to some, his gentle demeanor and quiet movements balance out his physicality.
Body Shape: His physique combines strength and agility—muscular, but not overly bulky. His arms are thick and powerful, a product of his work maintaining the manor, but they remain agile enough to allow for graceful, almost feline movements when he needs them. Despite his size, he’s never clumsy. Cormack moves smoothly, whether he’s lifting heavy objects or performing delicate tasks.
Skin: Still fair with a golden undertone, his skin is resilient, with faint lines that show his years of labor and outdoor life. The depth of his skin tone also highlights his connection to nature and the earth around him, speaking to a life spent in close contact with the land.
Body Hair: Cormac’s body is covered in a light dusting of auburn hair that traces the contours of his chest, arms, and legs. It’s a natural part of his appearance, adding to his earthy, rugged look. His chest is lightly furred, with the hair becoming thicker along his arms and legs. The warm auburn color contrasts with his fair skin, giving him a distinctly natural, untamed appearance that complements his connection to the land and his heritage.
Agility and Fitness: Despite his large frame, Cormac is surprisingly agile. His physical condition comes from years of practical experience—lifting, carrying, and performing tasks that demand both strength and quick reflexes. His agility isn't just about speed; it’s about being able to move quickly when necessary without losing control of his size. He’s able to navigate spaces that others might find cramped or difficult to move through due to his solid build.
Presence: His size makes him an imposing figure in any room, but he uses it in a way that exudes quiet authority rather than intimidation. His gentleness and measured approach soften any initial apprehension people might have when meeting him.
Mental characteristics
Personal history
Early Life:
Cormac was born on 16 Dubh Mi, 2050 in Rúndiamhair Shíoraí Manor, County Dúnnaofa, Inis Fáil, during a fierce winter storm. The sky was illuminated by the comet Ériu’s Veil, a rare celestial event that added a sense of mysticism to his birth. He was raised in the manor, steeped in both the beauty and responsibility of a family with a rich history dating back to the 6th century. As a child, he was deeply connected to the land and the tales of Inish folklore told by his parents. His father, an accomplished historian, and his mother, an expert baker, both instilled in him a passion for history, culture, and culinary arts.Tragedy and Responsibility:
At the age of 16, tragedy struck when a car accident took the lives of his parents. Cormac, being the only surviving member of the Darragh family, found himself thrust into the role of caretaker and guardian of the manor. The loss of his parents left a deep emotional scar, and for years, he struggled with the weight of the responsibility that came with the manor's legacy. Despite his young age, Cormac took on the mantle of preserving his family's heritage, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that the manor continued to thrive.Adulthood and Legacy:
As he entered adulthood, Cormac chose to study History and Folklore, Cultural Preservation, Languages and Literature, and Rhetoric and Public Speaking His deep love for Irish culture and heritage led him to become involved with local historical preservation societies and occasionally hosting community events. He also developed an exceptional talent for baking, a skill passed down from his mother. Today, at36 years old, Cormac runs Rúndiamhair Shíoraí Manor with pride. His life has been dedicated to maintaining the manor’s legacy and keeping the traditions of his ancestors alive. Cormac’s reputation as a welcoming host has made him beloved by guests and locals alike. Known as "The Bear of the Manor" for his imposing size and gentle nature, he balances the responsibilities of the manor, the B&B, and the local community, all while preserving the history that shapes him. Personal Challenges: Despite his many successes, Cormac has faced personal struggles. He often finds it difficult to let go of tasks and rely on others, a trait that stems from his fear of losing control over the legacy he is safeguarding. His emotional trauma from the loss of his parents has also left him with a deep sense of isolation, and he sometimes struggles with expressing his need for help.Gender Identity
Cormac’s Understanding of Gender
- Cormac grew up in a family that embraced individuality and prioritized character over conformity. His parents, before their untimely passing, fostered an environment where expectations were not tied to gender but to the values of kindness, integrity, and capability. Raised in part by Mrs. Byrne—a strong, independent woman who led with quiet wisdom—Cormac learned early on that leadership and care weren’t defined by gender but by actions.
How This Applies to Him
-
Innate Fluidity --
-
Cormac doesn’t give much thought to what gender “should” mean—he sees it as a facet of identity, as natural and varied as the personalities of the people he loves.
He doesn’t confine himself to traditionally “masculine” or “feminine” traits. Whether he’s chopping wood or tending to a sick lamb, he does what needs to be done without worrying about appearances.
-
While Cormac understands the gender norms of his time and community, he rarely lets them dictate his behavior. If a neighbor scoffs at Maeve taking charge in family matters or at Cormac sewing his own buttons, he lets their remarks roll off his back.
He’s aware, however, that not everyone shares his open-mindedness, and he navigates conversations with a tactful mix of charm and quiet defiance.
-
Cormac’s leadership style is collaborative, not hierarchical, and he sees no reason why gender should determine anyone’s role in the family or community.
-
He’s the type to encourage Maeve—or anyone, regardless of gender—to step into roles that suit their strengths, not the expectations others impose on them.
-
His respect for individuality makes him an empathetic confidant. Whether someone is questioning societal norms or their own identity, Cormac listens without judgment.
This trait deepens his bond with Maeve, who shares his progressive outlook. Together, they present a united front of acceptance and understanding within the family.
-
Navigating Expectations: While he personally doesn’t buy into rigid gender norms, Cormac recognizes that others do. He often finds himself mediating between older family members or community figures clinging to tradition and younger relatives pushing for change.
-
Cormac doesn’t go out of his way to proselytize his views but shows them through his actions. That said, when someone he cares about is hurt or oppressed, his quiet resolve can harden into unshakable determination.
Sexuality
Cormac’s Perspective on Attraction and Relationships
How the World of Inis Faíl Shapes Him
Themes and Implications
Subtle Drama While the world may not judge attraction, the complexities of relationships still exist. Unspoken feelings, differing priorities, or the tension between love and duty can create challenges that enrich the story without needing external prejudice as a plot device.
Education
Cormac’s Education: Homeschooling with a Focus on Folklore and History
Why Homeschooling?
Cormac’s education was shaped by the unique traditions and responsibilities of the Darragh family. With a legacy deeply intertwined with Baile Síoraí’s history, Cormac’s learning was overseen by private tutors at Rúndiamhair Shíoraí Manor. These educators tailored their teachings to instill not only academic knowledge but also the cultural and historical awareness needed to uphold the family’s role as protectors of the town’s heritage.Core Curriculum
- History and Folklore:
- In-depth exploration of Celtic mythology, regional legends, and the impact of oral traditions on community identity.
- Cultural Preservation:
- Techniques for documenting oral histories and protecting local traditions for future generations.
- Languages and Literature:
- Mastery of Old Inish and related languages, allowing for the interpretation of ancient texts and inscriptions.
- Rhetoric and Public Speaking:
- Training in storytelling and public address, refining Cormac’s ability to engage and inspire through the spoken word.
- Conducting interviews with elders to preserve their stories and oral histories.
- Restoring forgotten myths by piecing together fragments from various sources.
- Cataloging family artifacts to uncover their connections to local and regional lore.
- The role of oral traditions in preserving cultural identity and unity.
- The evolution of myths and their adaptation over time.
- Storytelling as a means of resilience and inspiration in difficult times.
- By learning through tutors, Cormac became a steward of the Darragh family’s history, ensuring their traditions remained alive and relevant.
- His education reinforced the family’s role as guardians of Baile Síoraí’s cultural and historical identity.
- Cormac revitalizes old legends and fosters a deeper understanding of the town’s heritage among its people.
- The Manor benefits from his knowledge in hosting events like storytelling nights and historical gatherings, strengthening ties between the town and its past.
- Homeschooling allowed Cormac to immerse himself fully in the stories of his ancestors, deepening his connection to his roots.
- His studies helped him refine his role as a modern-day storyteller, bridging the past with the present.
- Cormac continues to uncover, preserve, and share the traditions of his homeland, ensuring their survival for future generations.
- His work has established him as a respected figure in cultural preservation, both within Baile Síoraí and beyond.
Specialized Projects
Throughout his education, Cormac applied his studies to hands-on projects that connected him to the community and its history:Key Themes Explored
Impact on the Darragh Legacy
Family and Heritage
The Manor and Town
Personal Growth Through Tutoring
Connection to His Identity
Lifelong Contributions
Employment
Guardian of Traditions
-
Age: Childhood to Early Teens
-
Role: Apprentice to the Darragh Legacy
- From a young age, Cormac was immersed in the traditions of the Darragh family and the magic of Baile Síoraí na nDraíocht.
- He learned the oral histories, rituals, and customs that bind the town together.
- Under Mrs. Byrne’s watchful eye, he developed a deep respect for the town’s ancient ways, including its magical practices and its delicate balance between the mundane and the mystical.
- His "training" also included practical tasks like managing the estate’s day-to-day operations, assisting with town ceremonies, and shadowing elders during meetings with townsfolk.
Steward of Tradition and Magic
-
Role: Town Steward and Keeper of Magic
- Acting as a liaison between the mayor, the council, and the town’s magical guardians (a role unique to Baile Síoraí na nDraíocht).
- Overseeing ceremonies that honor the town’s traditions, such as seasonal festivals, rites of passage, and rituals tied to the land’s magic.
- Advocating for the preservation of the town’s historic character while ensuring it thrives in the modern world.
- Cormac also uses his education to document the oral histories of Baile Síoraí na nDraíocht, ensuring that its magical lore and traditions are passed down faithfully.
-
Upon his return from traveling, Cormac stepped into his birthright as a Darragh, becoming an integral part of the town’s governance.
-
His responsibilities include:
Protector of the Town’s Soul
-
Current Role: Protector of the Town’s Soul
-
Age: Present Day
-
Role: Steward of Baile Síoraí na nDraíocht and the Darragh Legacy
- Mediating between townsfolk and ensuring disputes are settled with respect to both tradition and fairness.
- Ensuring that the magic of Baile Síoraí na nDraíocht remains a living, breathing force within the community, whether through rituals, preservation efforts, or education.
- Hosting gatherings at the Darragh estate, which has become a focal point for both celebration and deliberation.
- Cormac also collaborates with younger generations, mentoring them in both leadership and the rituals that connect the town to its enchanted heritage.
-
Cormac’s role is not just administrative but deeply personal. He sees himself as a protector of the town’s soul, safeguarding both its people and its magic.
Key Contributions
Cormac’s Approach to Leadership
Cormac’s leadership style reflects the character of Baile Síoraí na nDraíocht itself: thoughtful, deeply respectful of history, and attuned to the needs of the present. He believes in blending the old and the new, ensuring the town remains timeless yet adaptable—a sanctuary for magic and tradition in a changing world.Accomplishments & Achievements
Relationships
History
Cormac and Maeve grew up in the shadow of their family's storied legacy. Though they share the Brennan name, their paths to Rúndiamhair Shíoraí Manor diverged early. Cormac, the elder by five years, was raised at the manor under the watchful eye of their enigmatic elders, groomed to one day care for the estate. Maeve, on the other hand, grew up in a nearby town, her branch of the family slightly estranged after old disputes over inheritance. As children, their connection was sporadic, limited to formal family gatherings where Maeve’s spirited nature often clashed with Cormack’s quieter, dutiful demeanor. However, a shared tragedy in their teens—the mysterious deaths of their parents—drew them closer. Maeve moved to the manor as Cormack took on his responsibilities, and their relationship evolved into one of mutual respect, though not without its sparks. Now, Maeve supports Cormac in managing the manor, her quick wit and fiery personality balancing his quiet strength. While they bicker like siblings, their bond is rooted in loyalty and the shared weight of family secrets.
Nicknames & Petnames
Maeve’s Nicknames for Cormac: Mac: A casual, slightly teasing shorthand for Cormac. She uses this when she’s feeling particularly cheeky or when they’re in a lighthearted moment. Bear: Refers to his size and protective nature. She uses it fondly when she’s feeling sentimental or trying to soften a disagreement. Cormac’s Nicknames for Maeve Mae: A simple, affectionate shorthand he uses often, especially when trying to calm her or during private moments. Firefly: Reflecting her fiery personality and small-but-mighty demeanor. It’s a term of endearment he uses sparingly but meaningfully.
Commonalities & Shared Interests
Loyalty to Family Legacy Both Cormac and Maeve are deeply invested in preserving the Brennan family’s legacy and the mystery surrounding Rúndiamhair Shíoraí Manor. They share a reverence for its history and a commitment to uncovering (or protecting) its secrets. Love of Storytelling Whether through recounting family tales or local folklore, both enjoy spinning stories, though Cormac leans toward understated, atmospheric narratives while Maeve prefers dramatic, theatrical embellishments. Connection to Nature Both cousins find solace in the surrounding lands of the manor, from the eerie woods to the rolling hills. They often cross paths during solitary walks or when tending to the grounds. Problem-Solving While their methods differ, they both relish solving puzzles—whether it’s deciphering old family records, fixing up parts of the manor, or unraveling mysteries. Dark Humor Both have a penchant for dry, sardonic humor. Cormac’s wit is subtle and sharp, while Maeve’s delivery is bold and theatrical, creating moments of unexpected harmony. Food and Drink The siblings bond over shared meals, particularly hearty Irish fare and whiskey. While Maeve experiments in the kitchen, Cormac enjoys the steady tradition of well-loved family recipes. Protectiveness Over the Manor Both view the manor as more than a home—it’s a symbol of their family and a bastion of their shared history. They’re united in their willingness to protect it, even if their motivations and strategies differ.
Shared Secrets
The Mystery of Rúndiamhair Shíoraí Both are aware of peculiar, unexplained phenomena surrounding the manor. Whether it’s strange noises, fleeting shadows, or the eerie way certain rooms seem to change, they’ve witnessed things that they keep quiet about, even from each other at times. A Family Scandal They share knowledge of a hidden chapter in the Brennan family history—perhaps an ancestor who disappeared under mysterious circumstances or a forbidden relationship. They’ve both vowed to protect the family name by keeping this from the wider community. A Hidden Room or Passage At some point, they discovered a concealed part of the manor, such as a hidden library, a crypt, or a treasure room. While they disagree on what to do with this knowledge, they’ve chosen to keep it between them for now. Maeve’s Financial Struggles Cormack knows Maeve has faced financial difficulties and that her return to the manor was partly out of necessity. He keeps this to himself to preserve her pride, and she appreciates his silence on the matter. Cormack’s Past Regrets Maeve knows more about the scar on Cormack’s cheek than anyone else. While the public story is an accident, she’s aware it’s tied to an event that still haunts him. She respects his choice not to talk about it openly. The True Purpose of the Manor’s Protection Together, they’ve theorized that the manor is more than a family relic—it may be guarding or concealing something of great significance. They haven’t agreed on what it is, but they’ve kept their suspicions hidden, even as they investigate separately.
Shared Acquaintances
Father Liam O’Connell The parish priest of the nearby village, Father Liam is a long-time family friend. He’s a confidant to both Cormack and Maeve, offering guidance and support. Father Liam also knows more about the manor’s history than he lets on and subtly encourages the cousins to reconcile their differences. Brigid “Bree” Gallagher The local historian and librarian, Bree has been a valuable resource for both Cormac and Maeve as they research the Brennan family history and the secrets of Rúndiamhair Shíoraí Manor. She’s a warm, friendly presence but is sharp as a tack and suspicious of anything left unexplained. Eamon Delaney A carpenter and handyman, Eamon has done work on the manor and knows it like the back of his hand. He and Cormac were romantically involved for a time, but realized they were better off as friends. They still love each other, and their behavior towards the other makes it obvious, but they would never hurt their friendship by crossing that line again. He has a playful, flirtatious rapport with with everyone, but especially Maeve, given her proximity to Cormac. Siobhan Kearney A childhood friend of both Cormac and Maeve, Siobhan left the village but recently returned. She’s fiercely loyal to both cousins and often finds herself playing mediator when their bickering gets out of hand. Siobhan has a knack for digging up information they wouldn’t have uncovered on their own. Declan Moriarty The owner of the village pub, Declan is a lively character who serves as a hub of news and gossip. Both Cormac and Maeve frequent his establishment, though for very different reasons—Cormac for quiet reflection and Maeve for socializing. Declan likes to tease them both about their rivalry. Gráinne McDonagh A healer and herbalist living on the outskirts of the village, Gráinne is a mystical figure who supplies remedies and advice to those in need. Cormack respects her knowledge and often seeks her out for herbal teas and poultices, while Maeve is fascinated by her enigmatic aura and enjoys long chats about folklore and history.
Legal Status
Legal
English
Comments