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In the early 9th century, Elpin mac Echdach, a chieftain of the Dal Riata, led an army into Pictland to seize the throne. His bold attempt nearly succeeded in overthrowing a dynasty that had ruled for over a century. However, Prince Brude map Ferat of Circinn and his forces slowed the invasion, giving King Oengus map Fergus time to prepare his army. The two sides clashed near Dun Nechtan, where Elpin was captured and beheaded, his army scattered or slain. Despite this defeat, Elpin's sons, Cinaed and Domnaill, sought revenge. As the Pictish kingdom was weakened by civil war, Cinaed mac Elpin emerged victorious and was crowned King of the Picts. His reign ended the turmoil and established a new dynasty that ruled until 1034 AD, laying the foundation for Scotland. One of the dynasty's most remarkable but least-known kings was Giric mac Domnaill. Once an exiled prince with no expectations of ruling, he was unexpectedly thrust into power. Despite internal strife and external threats, he transformed the kingdom, later earning the title of King Giric the Great.
