Vivian

1992 Number 12 of 100

Also known as Nyneve, Nimue or Niniane, is the Druid counterpart to Merlin, and represents all that is alluring and mystical about the Medieval forests. As a young man, while wandering deep within the Bracelende woods, Merlin encountered the enchantress and fell in love with her. But because of his demanding life at the Pendragon court, under Uther, then Arthur, Merlin did not have the time to pursue her. With only dreams of Vivian he lived a celibate life. Morgan le Fay knew of Merlin's secret love, and in the scheme of arranging Arthur's demise, shebargained with Vivian to get rid of Merlin. Vivian appeared to Merlin as a nubile, seductive teenager, the daughter of the King of Northumberland. He was again beguiled by her great beauty. "Merlin if thou dost love me, teach me thy wisdom and cunning of thy magic and I will love thee beyond anyone in the world." Merlin took her to the Valley of Joyousness, where he conjured up a great vermillion and gold castle, in which they lived. Within a year Merlin had given her all of his secrets. She then gave him a sleeping potion, and imprisoned him in a crystal cave beneah a mighty Druid oak tree where he remains to this day, waiting to be called.