She was promised in marriage to Fionn mac Cumhail, but fell in love with Diarmuid of the love spot when she saw Diarmuid in the wedding party. She laid a geasa upon him to run away with her. Their long flight from Fionn was aided by Aengus Og, Diarmuid's foster-father.
Eventually, Fionn pardons Diarmuid after Aengus Og intercedes on their behalf; the pair settle in Kerry and produce five children. The story of Gráinne and Diarmuid is one of a number of instances in Irish mythology of the eternal triangle of young man, young girl and ageing suitor. The situation is very similar to the tale of Naoise, Deirdre and Conchobar.
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