Description
"Púcas may be small, but don't let their size fool you. They're mischievous little buggers with a talent for illusions that would put a Hollywood special effects team to shame." - Celyddon Rosser, author of Enchanted Fauna
Púcas (Leprechaunus puca), also known as Pukas, Phookas, Phukas, Pookas, Pwca or Bwca in Cymric, Bucca in Cornish or Glashtyn in Gaelg, are a species of magical creatures that inhabit the deep forests of the British Isles. While they are often misunderstood and feared, they are actually harmless creatures that play an important role in the ecosystem of the forest.
Physical Description
Púcas are near-humanoid creatures with a lanky appearance, thin arms and legs and a tall head. They average around 15 cm in height and are covered in black and white fur, which serves as a camouflage in the shadows of the forest.
Behaviour
Púcas are surprisingly intelligent and have a keen sense of curiosity. They are known to live in small, village-like colonies deep in the forest, where they engage in communal living and have a well-developed social hierarchy. While they are generally shy and prefer to avoid human contact, they are not aggressive and will only defend themselves if they feel threatened. This is in stark contrast to the mischievous and downright malevolent tricksters they are often portrayed as.
Sometimes Púcas befriend Magi and may make them a gift, like a tuft of fur or a small trinket. Such gifts should be held in high regard, as while they may not have any monetary value, for Púcas, gifts like this are symbolic and indicate a lasting friendship.
Magic
One of the most interesting aspects of Púcas is their ability to create illusions. This magical ability allows them to appear much larger or smaller than they actually are, or to make objects and other creatures appear differently than they really are. This has led to the widespread belief that Púcas are shape-shifters, but in reality, they are simply masters of illusion.
Uses in Magic
Púcas don't produce any particularly useful magical materials or ingredients, but their fur is sometimes used in the creation of small trinkets and amulets. These items are said to have a protective and calming effect when carried on one's person, and are popular among those who believe in the magical properties of natural materials. However, the harvesting of Púca fur is frowned upon by many magical societies, as it is seen as cruel and unnecessary. As such, such items are relatively rare and can be expensive.
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Púcas are part of the Powers Within worldbuilding project which is, in part inspired by the Harry Potter universe. A lot of illustrations for this project will be AI generated.
I do not claim any copyright for AI generated images. They are meant simply as a quicky way to illustrate certain concepts.