Caeo (SAY-oh)

Caeo are passive, flying, large whale-like mammals that play a significant role in the Icalar water cycle.
Although clouds and rainfall exist without the caeo, they secrete a chemical that encourages condensation/precipitation. Prior to the War of the Six, advances in technology and magical skill were leading to increased efforts to hunt them, especially using koza. The war stunted this effort but now that the Bitter Hand is subsiding efforts are beginning anew as paranoia over tainted water supplies persists. When a caeo is killed, its tremendous and often terrifying crash to the ground is known as a deathfall.
They are also a primary source for sprites, especially in deathfalls, though no one understands precisely why.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Individuals form 'pods' of three to five individuals; the only pod larger was last reliably observed in 590AC, though ancient depictions from the Lost Age also exist.

Symbiotic and Parasitic organisms

Sprite are often born from caeo, whether from living, healthy individuals or in a deathfall. They do not, however, stay with their 'parent' for very long, so whether they can be classed as truly symbiotic is arguable.

Conservation Status

Endangered

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Smooth, 'pearly' skin.

Geographic Distribution

• Icalar