The Legend of the Giant Serpent – ​​Misikinebik

Long ago, before humans set foot on the shores of the silent lakes, a fearsome being named Misikinebik lived in the deep waters. The elders tell of this serpent, so immense that its body, gliding beneath the surface, made the waves dance and the stones tremble. On nights when mist enveloped the lake, its breath created mysterious eddies, and the trees shuddered as if they felt the power of its presence.

The inhabitants of the neighboring villages knew that no foolhardy person should venture near the water after dusk. For Misikinebik, guardian of the lakes and ancient secrets, watched everything. His piercing gaze, it was said, could probe the souls of those who dared to confront him.

A curious and daring young boy decided to uncover the truth. Every night, he silently approached the shore, listening to the lapping of the water and the deep breath of the serpent. One evening, as the moon reflected on the surface, Misikinebik emerged, its scales shining like jewels and its eyes sparkling like two black stars.

Instead of devouring him, the snake spoke in a deep whisper, full of wisdom and mystery. "I am the guardian of these waters," it said. "Respect the lakes, the rivers, and all that lives in them, and you will know the secrets of the world. Disdain them, and you will perish."

The boy then understood that true strength lay not in reckless courage, but in respect for nature and its inhabitants. He returned to the village and told the story of Misikinebik, and from that day on, each generation learned to honor the lakes and listen to the wisdom of the elders.

Thus the legend of the giant serpent endures, a warning and a lesson, passed down orally through the centuries.

Like an ancient song, this story finds an echo in indigenous creations that unite the land and the spirit.