Werewolf Pantheon

The Werewolf Pantheon is as old as the race itself. Cave paintings dating back to man’s earliest days depict primordial Werewolves hunting prehistoric man, always in packs of five regardless of location or origin. Werewolf scholars believe these are depictions of their spiritual creators: the Five Children. However as with most religions, there are some sceptics who theorise that Werewolves in fact evolved scientifically over thousands of years through the same genus as traditional wolves, instead of any divine union between wolf and man. Of course, there have been stories down the years of sightings of giant Werewolves with all manner of supernatural powers that have been attributed to the Five and whereas the skeptics identify these creatures as Werewolves showing some skill in the arts of magic, believers see them as proof of the divine.

Most modern Werewolves hold to the belief of the Five Children, but there are a growing number who identify as Atheists and even fewer in number are Weres who choose to follow human religions. These individuals are usually treated with some suspicion, and sometimes derision, from their fellow Werewolves.

Fenris

Fenris represents honour, loyalty and courage. He is depicted as the oldest of the Five Children and the most powerful, a giant grey Werewolf with its face raised to the sky. He is also sometimes crowned with leaves when depicted as the ‘Father of Weres’. He is called upon to give strength in battle and in the face of great trial to the individual. To lie in Fenris’ name is seen as one of the greatest of Werewolf taboos. He is also the god of drink and celebration, as is often invoked during feasts. The festival of ‘Father Wolf’, held during the autumn equinox, is held in his honour.

Lagertha

Lagertha is Fenris’ mate as well as his sister. She represents life, family, home and new beginnings. Lagertha is depicted as a strong, golden skinned Werewolf with a shining sun as a mane. Statues and images of Lagertha are brought into new homes to bless them, as well as in Werewolf marriage ceremonies. She teaches that family should come before any other duty or task.

Rainar

Rainar represents the moon, water, art, crossings and transitions. Often depicted with a moon in her jaws, she is said to guide Weres on journeys and is responsible for oceans and rivers. She is most celebrated in Asia and Oceania, where festivals are held at each full moon in reverence to Rainar. Stone statues of the goddess, thousands of years old, have been discovered on the most remote islands in the world, much to the bafflement of the scientific community.

Coyote

If Fenris is seen as the ‘Father of Weres’, Coyote is the father of the Wendigo. He is the god of spirits, wisdom, deserts and medicine. A Wendigo’s rite of passage involves a spirit quest to seek Coyote and gain his wisdom. Most Wendigo tribes have a shaman who teaches the ways of the Five Children and about the wisdom of Coyote. He is often depicted with a skeletal face and antlers like a stag, with his raven messenger on his shoulder, and is said to live in dreams.

Martin

Martin is the youngest of the Five, and the wildest. He represents the hunt, war, animals, youth and morality. Were children are often taught lessons through fables involving Martin and his adventures. He is said to be impulsive but quick thinking. He is the god of animals and is used to teach Werewolf youths to respect the animals which they hunt.