Totem Animals-Courtesy of the Stormrock Clan

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Hey! I know that I'm not an Earthspear yet, but I want to share a wonderful resource that Jergo Skycaller found for SRC a while ago.

Copy/Paste begins here. Enjoy and feel free to comment!

"In our world, every native culture has revered animals in some way. Many have viewed animals as possessing human-like qualities and traits. By studying these animals' behavior, members of these tribes hope to learn lessons about themselves. Many go one step further and choose a totem animal for their very own, thus linking their spirit to an animal that seems to best embody their own personality and thereby gain its power."
-above quote taken from said site

There are 25 animals, each can be found in-game. Each have multiple spiritual meanings (much is akin to modern astrology, a personality description, positive and negative influences it has on a person, etc).

This would be done at Spirit Circle (well, partially! You'll see!)

1.) At Spirit Circle, Jergo will have a bag full of the 25 animal totems. She can have players draw a totem (rolling 1-25 to see which animal they receive). The player is NOT told which animal they get.

2.) Each animal totem would have a three part quest (I'd have to write up all this before I start doing it, which is why I'd rather get feedback first. ^.^). This will tie in with the beliefs of the guild.

3.) First quest is Physical. This will involve hunting an animal and gathering some body part, or finding herbs or gems tp bring back to me. I'll have to keep it kind of vague so they don't know what their totem is.

4.) The second part would be Mental. I could give them a potion to take when they could go off and meditate. Perhaps I'll give them a letter with three things they would see for sure, but let them come up with the rest. Maybe when I draw the totem, Jergo has a brief vision and lists the three things.

5.) The last part would be spiritual. This would involve them coming back to Spirit Circle, and presenting Jergo with a tale of their vision quest and giving her the item they gathered. (Thus making people more involved with Spirit Circle).

6.) Jergo would then carve their totem animal into the back of their Clan air totem, and tie the fetish (the physical manifestation of their animal totem) to it.

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Among the Shu'halo people, it was common for those of the tribe to chose an animal totem that reflected their ideals and personality. Some picked their totem based on traits they wished to possess and mimic, striving to reach those ideals. Others found their dreams filled with images of their totem spirit, or were given signs in the waking world of which to chose.

Each soul is unique, so it is not uncommon for some to pick multiple totems to represent various aspects of themselves...or even to chose among the more abstract- such as the sun and moon, or the elements.

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Totem Animal: Bat

Element: air
Symbol: bat
Fetish: bat wing, bat fur
Place of Power: the night
Gender: male or female

Positive Spirit:

Though often regarded with fear, Bat is a powerful totem for change. Those who know Bat well see it as a challenge to oneself, for Bat forces us to examine our own inner fears. Those under the influence of Bat have little fear of the night, of darkness, and have often mastered their own hidden fears. Having done so, they challenge others to do the same.

Bat has an extraordinary sense of direction and the ability to maneuver through dangerous situations without harm. Bat can often avoid dangers before others are aware of the threat. Those who fly with Bat have excellent night vision and make dangerous night hunters and raiders.

Bat is also a very social creature. Those who are influenced by Bat love the company of their own kind and though a superior scout and hunter, Bat does not stay away for long from the comfort of its brothers.

Negative Spirit:

Having mastered their inner fears, those influenced by Bat must be careful not to be foolhardy. There are some things one should have a healthy respect for, even if you do not fear it.

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Totem Animal: Bear

Element: earth
Symbol: paw
Fetish: fang
Place of Power: cave
Gender: male or female

Positive Spirit:

In his habit of hibernation, Bear is closely associated with sleep and is the keeper of dreamtime. Many seers and dream interpreters pay homage to Bear. The Tauren that likes to sleep may be touched heavily by Bear. But in this contact with his dream-self, Bear is also very introspective.

Though lazy and plodding at first glance, bear is a deep thinker. Bear does not make hasty judgments but rather weighs all sides of an issue before reaching a decision. For this reason, many inventors and scholars are influenced by Bear.

Bear also has a great love for home. Those who live under his influence enjoy good food, comfort, and the opportunity to relax. Yet, when in the wild and denied such comforts, Bear adapts well, finding the basic necessities easily.

Finally, Bear can be a fierce warrior, especially when protecting his home and children. Though often slow moving, Bear and those living under his influence can strike with deadly speed and unmatched power when provoked.

Negative Spirit:

Bear's slow pace can sometimes give way to procrastination and laziness if not motivated. However, the most dangerous Bear individuals are those who develop a taste for Bear's wrath when angered. Often, war hungry Tauren are those who have become too comfortable with the power of Bear's anger and enjoy the fear it can elicit in others.

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Totem Animal: Boar

Element: earth
Symbol: boar head, tusks
Fetish: tusk
Place of Power: shaded areas
Gender: traditionally male

Positive Spirit:

Boars are hardy, strong, tireless when aroused to action, and stubborn. When set on a task that he desires finished, especially if rewards await him at its completion, Boar will strive relentlessly until the task is completed.

Boars are very territorial, protective of their young, and easily aroused to anger. A Boar will not tolerate a slight to his person or his tribe. Though Boars may be pig-headed and proud, he does remind the tribe not to become complacent or submissive.

Though often shortsighted, Boar has a keen nose, both physically and spiritually. Boar is difficult to surprise, those under his influence are relentless trackers, and often have a nose for deception and evil. "I know evil in my nose" is a saying attributed to Boar.

Though not known for their intelligence, those who walk with Boar are much brighter than many would give them credit for being. Boar has a practical, down-to-earth wisdom. Boar is pragmatic and often shuns idealistic views. Those Tauren who follow the ways of Boar are attracted to the familiar, the certain, and the traditional.

Negative Spirit:

Boars must be cautious that opportunity is not missed due to hotheadedness. Boars can be too often distrustful and abrasive. It is far too easy for Boars to be ruled by their tempers.

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Totem Animal: Deer

Element: earth
Symbol: hoof
Fetish: piece of hide
Place of Power: woods or glades
Gender: traditionally female

Positive Spirit:

Deer carries the message of purity of purpose. Deer knows her work and carries it out without need for recognition or accolade. Deer is often unswerving in achieving a goal. However, unlike Boar's tenacity fueled by temper, Deer simply does what she knows she must.

Deer is gentle and kind. Those influenced by Deer cannot knowingly cause harm to another. Deer carries no shadow, no illusions or alterior motives. Deer is honest and trustworthy, genuine and caring. Healers and caregivers are often touched by deer. It is often the gentle touch of Deer that best cares for the children of the tribe.

Negative Spirit:

Deer must take care not to be too trusting. Having no deceptions of her own, it can be difficult for deer to believe the malice that others may bear her or the tribe.

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Totem Animal: Eagle

Element: air
Symbol: feather, talon
Fetish: feather
Place of Power: a high peak
Gender: traditionally male

Positive Spirit:

The mightiest of the bird totems, Eagle symbolizes strength, speed, and unswerving clarity of purpose. Eagle is gifted with clear vision, to see both far into the future and through any illusion. Eagles see the whole picture from their lofty perch while capturing every detail of an issue with their keen perception. Many great Tauren chiefs were strongly influenced by Eagle.

For all its strength, Eagle is a patient hunter, conserving his energy for the right moment. Though greatest of the birds of prey, Eagle is not boastful or raucous. Eagle actually has a weak voice and chooses the best time to add his voice to a discussion.

Perhaps strongest of the masculine air spirits, Eagle demonstrates the heights to which Tauren may climb. Eagle often quietly sets the standards that others follow. Eagle challenges us to strive for more, for greater, for better, but without need for fanfare and recognition.

With its feathers often used in ceremony, Eagle embodies the ability for the earthborn to reach the heavens, for the physical to touch the spiritual. If you strive to better know your own spirit, find one who flies with Eagle as a guide.

Negative Spirit:

Eagle's greatest flaw is not his own, but those of others. Some will envy Eagle for his abilities and the heights to which he soars. Lesser birds are often seen harassing Eagle, jealous of his stature and position. Eagle must be careful not to become jaded by the actions of lesser Tauren.

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Totem Animal: Gazelle

Element: earth
Symbol: hoof, antler
Fetish: piece of hide
Place of Power: open plains
Gender: traditionally female

Positive Spirit:

Gazelle is the consummate runner. Few can match both her speed and her agility. Gazelle teaches the benefit of knowing when to abandon a lost cause, how to run today so as to fight a better battle tomorrow, and that a swift change in course can save the day. Gazelle is not as impulsive as she might seem, but she certainly does not allow herself to become bogged down with indecision. Her energetic personality and lightheartedness often makes her a welcome addition to any hunt.

Gazelle is a group member. She knows the advantage of numbers, the safety of the milling crowd, and the value of teamwork. Though Gazelle appreciates village and home, she often feels safer in the open where danger is more easily spotted and where she has room to move.

Though seldom a warrior, Gazelle does make a fine hunter and gatherer. She excels as scout and messenger. Often shunning flesh for her own meals, those touched by Gazelle make wonderful bakers and even fisherwomen.

Negative Spirit:

Gazelle must be careful of becoming too skittish. Always quick to react to danger, Gazelle must learn not to jump at every shadow or to conclusions.

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Totem Animal: Giraffe

Element: earth and air
Symbol: spots
Fetish: a piece of hide
Place of Power: brush land between plains and trees
Gender: traditionally female

Positive Spirit:

Giraffe symbolizes the union between earth and air, for her feet are firmly planted on the ground while her head reaches the sky. As such, those who walk with Giraffe are often sensitive to weather, its affect on the earth, and are skilled at weather magic.

Gifted with their unique perspective, those influenced by Giraffe are often aware of change and potential danger long before their shorter necked brethren. They often make fine lookouts, though are seldom adventurous enough for true scouts. Giraffe is a wise totem, looking far into the future and is never shortsighted. Giraffe's elevated perspective also makes it a skilled counselor, able to bring a new view to others who may be having difficulty seeing over the next horizon. Giraffe is the totem of friendship and trust. Giraffe makes a wonderful addition to any elder lodge.

A sampler of plants that most others never see or taste, Giraffe has an affinity for herbalism. Giraffe are expert gatherers and often excel at combining their finds into useful potions. Also, their patchwork hide hints at an ability to piece parts of a puzzle together, whether metaphorically or with materials (tailoring, leatherworking, and alchemy). When combining both their skills of counseling and alchemy, those under the sign of Giraffe can be great physical and spiritual healers.

Negative Spirit:

Giraffe must remember that its long neck is a useful tool for the benefit of the tribe rather than a means to look down upon her neighbors. A Giraffe that becomes too lofty must remember that her feet must still touch the ground.

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Totem Animal: Hawk

Element: air
Symbol: feather
Fetish: feather
Place of Power: high cliffs
Gender: male or female

Positive Spirit:

Hawk is the messenger of destiny and enlightenment from the Earthmother. It is Hawk who bears creativity and inspiration. Because of this, those who fly with Hawk are often writers, dancers, musicians, and artists.

Hawk is second only in insight and vision to Owl. But where Owl's vision looks into the mystical, Hawk perceives the truth of the physical. Many scouts and hunters are Hawks, for they can quickly discern the true nature of a threat.

Though protective of their family and excellent providers, Hawks are often loners. Like the solitary bird far overhead, Tauren who are touched by Hawk spend many hours and days in foreign lands, scouting for potential danger and opportunity.

When danger does appear, Hawk wastes little time in attacking. The blinding stoop of Hawk into battle often scatters enemies much larger than himself.

Negative Spirit:

Being often alone and of the nature to attack with surprise, if little planning, Hawks must be careful of not becoming overwhelmed. First and fastest is the Hawk's motto, but they often benefit from lessons of patience.

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Totem Animal: Kodo

Element: earth
Symbol: kodo horns, kodo print
Fetish: piece of kodo hide, tooth
Place of Power: open plains
Gender: male or female

Positive Spirit:

Kodo symbolizes overwhelming strength and endurance. Of all the plains totems, none represents power and simple nobility like Kodo. Those under this totem tend to be the largest of their tribe, strong, robust, and tireless if not the most fleet of hoof. Kodo is the indomitable will that cannot be turned from an objective. Headstrong at times, those influenced by Kodo are seldom easily angered by adversity, but rather push onward until the goal is attained.

Kodo also embodies the utilization of all parts, for the survival of the Tauren has often depended on using every part of this, greatest of plains beasts. Those influenced by Kodo are conservative, practical, thrifty and resourceful. Kodo gets the most out of every resource and is never wasteful. Craftsmen, especially those of the more masculine crafts (mining, smithing, and skinning), are often Kodo bending their great strength and resourcefulness to a particular profession.

Kodo is patience with action, for though not swift in their movements, Kodo like to keep moving. Imbued with boundless energy, Kodo seldom lounge. Kodo are often deeper thinkers than they are given credit for, though they may take a long while before reaching a decision. Do not assume a Kodo is not deep in thought simply because he does not share those thoughts quickly. He is likely still thoroughly chewing over the matter. Once sure of a course of action, there is little that will sway a Kodo from his path. And Kodo possess long memories, seldom forgetting an action of others, whether good or bad.

Though Kodo's great strength and endurance can make them formidable warriors, charging with overwhelming fury when finally moved to anger, Kodo are strongly tied to the earth and earth magic. Shaman, especially those specializing in earth magic, are often greatly influenced by the spirit of Kodo.

Negative Spirit:

Kodo should be mindful of becoming too headstrong and determined. Some Kodo can develop tunnel vision, heedless of possible danger along the way or possible repercussions of their actions.

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Totem Animal: Lion

Element: fire
Symbol: maned head, paw
Fetish: claw
Place of Power: plains
Gender: male or female

Positive Spirit:

Though a strong warrior and patient stalker like Tiger, Lion is not a loner. Lion enjoys the comfort of family and friends. The Tauren who follows Lion would much rather live, play, and hunt with a group.

The male and female aspect of Lion are strikingly different. Females are energetic and often overachievers. It is the female who tends the young, makes the home, and is the more prolific hunter. Female Lions are the epitome of teamwork. Male Lions are often the low key, unconcerned, master of their domain. They regularly view themselves as being above mundane tasks and are more than willing to allow the female to serve their needs. It is when the male is aroused to anger, most often when his territory or family is threatened, that he displays his full power and ferocity.

Both genders display patience and the ability to use opportunity to their advantage. Lions do not rush that which is important, but when the time to strike arrives, they do not hesitate to act.

Though earthy in many aspects of behavior, Lion is most closely related to the sun, thus its connection with fire. Like a fire, started slowly by a spark and building to a consuming blaze, so too with Lion.

Negative Spirit:

Males must guard against becoming too complacent and even lazy. Females must be mindful of the opposite, for female Lions may attempt to take on too much responsibility.

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Totem Animal: Owl

Element: air and spirit
Symbol: moon
Fetish: feather
Place of Power: forest
Gender: traditionally female

Positive Spirit:

Owl is an ancient totem reaching back to the days when Tauren territory reached all the way to Ashenvale. Though seldom seen in their current lands, Owl is a powerful and respected totem.

As the guide of souls to the afterlife, the Owl is closely attuned to the spirit world. Owl has a piercing gaze and can see through deception and illusion, even through the veil between the physical and mystical. Owls often are gifted with intuition and strong instinct. Many Owls are psychics, mediums, and clairvoyants.

Closely linked to ancestors, those under the influence of Owl are often the keepers of history. Owls make wonderful teachers, scholars, and medicine women.

Those who fly with Owl are often more comfortable at night than under the sun. They are silent hunters and defend their homes with skill. The moon holds great sway over Owl and its monthly cycles, like those of the female herself, strongly influence the mood of the Tauren dominated by this symbol.

Negative Spirit:

Owls can often seem aloof or detached from the tribe. Their silence can be mistaken for unsociability. Finally, their night-owl habits may place them out of the normal rhythms of the tribe. Owls need to work to keep from becoming isolated by their own habits.

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Totem Animal: Panther

Element: earth and arcane
Symbol: paw
Fetish: claw
Place of Power: forest
Gender: male or female

Positive Spirit:

Though seldom seen by Tauren in their present homeland, Panther was once a revered totem animal when the Tauren range ran all the way to Ashenvale.

Like all the cat totems, Panther has a powerful gaze and can see into the shadows, both physical and spiritual, to see the real matter at hand. Panther is a night hunter and those who stalk with it are often more comfortable under the light of the moon and make deadly night raiders.

Walking the path between the Tiger and the Lion, Panther is seldom solitary, though preferring the company of one or at most, small groups. However, the bond between two panthers rivals or surpasses that of a Plainstrider matching. Several Panthers working in tandem is a most deadly adversary.

Panther is the consummate stalker. Its ability to remain unseen during the hunt strides the boundary between the physical and spiritual, for Panther is a stealther, not simply a hider. Panther also represents the shape-shifter and the ability to release the fullness of one's totem, to be complete with one's inner beast and unlock it without losing oneself to it completely.

Those who fall under Panther's sway are subtle in their actions, giving away no secrets and deftly lull their enemies into a false sense of security. Panther is soft spoken, graceful, and often mysterious. Panther combines problem solving and plotting with lightning reactions. Panther knows how to keep others off balance.

Negative Spirit:

Panther's greatest challenge is not to be too foreign. Being an older, often forgotten totem, those influenced by panther may be misunderstood for their unfamiliar habits and mysterious demeanor. The cat's use by Night Elves has caused some tribes to shun the use of Panther as a totem. And Panther must be careful not to make tribal members feel as if they are being stalked.

[Lekashna Wildmane]

Totem Animal: Plainstrider

Element: earth
Symbol: foot
Fetish: feather
Place of Power: open plains
Gender: male or female

Positive Spirit:

Plainstrider represents the traveler, the unbound runner, the wanderer. Plainstrider is often a messenger, a scout, and most often an explorer. Plainstrider travels for the love of traveling, even if nothing new is discovered. Thus, often a loner, Plainstrider bears none of the negative connotations of that lifestyle. Plainstrider does not feel removed from others, unsociable, or moody. Rather, he is just too busy enjoying the trip to notice how far he has traveled from home. Because of this footloose spirit, Plainstriders seldom take a mate unless they too are touched by Plainstrider. In such cases, they can represent one of the strongest of all totem pairings.

Though not one of the stronger warrior totems, Plainstrider can defend itself with skill when necessary. Given Plainstrider's wanderlust, those who ply the gathering professions are often Plainstrider, especially herbalists. Unlike the equally wandering Zhevra, Plainstrider seldom sets out with discovery in mind, but rather stumbles on the unexpected, though he takes equal delight in its finding.

Being the only flightless bird totem among so many fliers, Plainstrider also embodies adaptation and originality. On one hand, Plainstrider challenges you to find a way of making due without those things you might think irreplaceable. Plainstrider Tauren excel at problem solving and making the best of adversity. At the same time, Plainstrider revels in being different from the crowd. Being the flightless among those who soar, Plainstrider replies with blazing trails into areas that his winged brothers do not travel.

Negative Spirit:

Plainstrider faces the same challenges that all wander-lust totems face; becoming too separated from their own people and strangers in their own tribe.