Lucas_Willian

Velho do Cangaço

Velho do Cangaço is a journey through the backlands of the Northeast, where the harsh reality of life intertwines with the wisdom of a man who has seen it all. With just one eye, the old man sees more than most — he sees the soul of the backlands and carries with him the stories and scars of a life lived on the margins.

In this work, the protagonist crosses arid landscapes and forgotten cities, resolving conflicts and unraveling mysteries wherever he goes. His slow, firm steps tell a story of resistance, strength and the weight of the past, in a land that does not forgive weakness.

Get ready to enter the world of a simple but profound man, where each decision echoes the struggles of a people who, even in the face of the greatest adversities, do not bow down.

The old man of the cangaço

The sun was already high in the sky when preparations began to take shape. The central square, which hours before had been just a passageway, was now bustling with activity. Makeshift barricades sprang up at the entrances to the main streets, while groups of citizens, armed with whatever they had at hand, organized themselves under the guidance of Rodrigo and other local leaders.

Sebastião stood atop one of the barricades, observing the movement around him. He was not a real soldier, but his years of experience as a guide and his ability to read the terrain made him a crucial element in the defense strategy. He knew that every second counted, and Rodrigo's meticulous organization gave him some hope that they could withstand the first impact.

Rodrigo, in turn, circulated among the groups, making sure that everyone understood their tasks. The younger ones were positioned in the makeshift watchtowers, with clear orders to alert at the slightest sign of enemy movement. The most experienced, veterans of past wars and hunters from the backlands, formed the front line, while the rest prepared to provide support in whatever was needed, from carrying ammunition to helping the wounded.

The tension was palpable, but there was a sense of common purpose that kept everyone focused. Rodrigo's words had lit a flame of determination in each of those present, and now, the city was ready to fight for its survival.

"Time is running out," Rodrigo said to Sebastião, as he approached him at the barricade. "We have to be ready for an attack at any moment. We don't know exactly how many there are, but we can't underestimate their strength."

Sebastião nodded, squinting at the horizon, where a cloud of dust was beginning to form in the distance. "It looks like we won't have to wait long," he replied, pointing in the direction of the cloud.

Rodrigo followed Sebastião's gaze and frowned. "That's their cavalry. If we can hold off the first attack, we may have a chance to regroup and counterattack."

"And if we can't?" Sebastian asked, aware of the gravity of the situation.

Rodrigo took a deep breath, knowing there was no room for uncertainty now. "Then we will do what we can to save as many people as possible. But let's not think about that yet. We will fight to the last man, if necessary."

A few meters away, the church bells began to ring, a prearranged signal for everyone to prepare. The cloud of dust was approaching quickly, and the sound of horses' hooves could already be heard, echoing through the empty streets.

"Everyone to your positions!" Rodrigo shouted, his voice cutting through the air like a definitive order.

The men and women of the city positioned themselves behind the barricades, while the young men in the watchtowers kept their eyes fixed on the enemy's approach. The calm before the storm was distressing, but at the same time, there was a sense that this was the moment for which everyone had been preparing, consciously or unconsciously, their entire lives.

When the first horse appeared in their line of sight, Sebastian clenched his fists, feeling cold sweat run down his forehead. Rodrigo, at his side, kept his eyes fixed on the enemy, waiting for the right moment to give the command.

Chapter 76: The First Line of Defense