The Dullahan (the Headless Rider) — an Evil Spirit of Irish Mythology
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The DullahanThe Dullahan is an evil spirit from Irish mythology, appearing as a headless horseman who rides a black horse or chariot. In one hand he carries his own head, grinning a hideous smile that stretches from ear to ear, and in the other, a whip made from a human spine. His eyes dart ceaselessly from side to side, searching for someone who is soon to die. When the Dullahan spots such a person, he rides up to them and raises his head high, and it calls out the name of the doomed. The person then dies instantly, and the headless rider gallops on in search of his next victim.
The Headless RiderThe Dullahan does not take kindly to being watched. He may throw a basin of blood over anyone who happens to spot him, which foretells a swift and unavoidable death for the victim in the near future. He may also strike the overly curious with his whip across the face, blinding them.
The Dullahan on his chariotThose Dullahans who ride chariots decorate them with human skulls, their eye sockets ablaze with bright flame that lights the road ahead. These chariots are also covered in human skin, and nearly all their fittings and parts are made from bone.
No obstacle in his path can stop the Dullahan. Every door and gate opens before him. Protective amulets, charms, incantations, and other objects meant to ward off spirits are equally powerless against him. The only thing that can stop him is gold cast into his path. The moment the headless rider notices or touches it, he vanishes at once. But who knows when he might decide to return again?
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