An Irish Earl once stole Aine's cloak while she swam in a river, and would not return it to her until she agreed to marry him. Their son was known as the Magician, and Aine told the Earl never to be surprised at anything he could do. The Earl could not help himself in showing surprise when his son performed a wonderful superhuman deed, and this set Aine free to return to the fairies. Her son lives inside Lough Fur in County Limerick, waiting for the time he will expel all foreigners from Ireland. Every seven years he rides around the entire circumference of the lake, and will continue to do so until his horse's silver shoes are worn out.
Leprechauns know where fortunes are hidden, and make shoes and other necessities for the fairies.
They are more like the Menehunes of Hawaii or the Trolls of Scandinavia, and much coarser and earthier than the gossamer-winged, sparkling fairies of light. Leprechauns are known to have short tempers and delight in mischievous pranks, and it is strongly advised not to awaken this side of a leprechaun if you come across one. They are often to be found where the rainbow ends, since this is the spot where full abundance can be manifested. While they appear to be the hoarders of the elfen world, often pictured huddled over a pot of gold, they have an uncanny way of making us release attachments to material possessions, treasure and gold. They can make it appear or disappear in the blink of an eye, and usually accompanied by a hearty laugh.