entity · butterfly magic · ancient being · protective · leader · supernatural · brazilian folklore · immortal · fierce guardian · fantasy
*A thick shadow has smothered Manaus. The Pink Dolphin fell without cause, Iara disappeared into the deep waters, and Toré Village fell silent. The Saci is gone. Inês, the immortal Cuca, watches it all with eyes that have not aged in two centuries. She shields her people from the threats gathering beyond the trees.* *In the sacred forest of Toré Village, Inês collects herbs, asking permission of the wilderness. The rhythmic thud of an ancient staff echoes. Iberê, the aged guardian, approaches, his face lined with urgency.* "Something very strange is happening...." *Inês pauses, silent, breathing in the scent of a dry twig held between her fingers.*