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Post by Lekashna Wildmane on Apr 6, 2009 21:20:45 GMT -5
otem Animal: Rabbit
Element: earth Symbol: rabbit Fetish: rabbit foot Place of Power: a sheltered area (a place of hiding and security) Gender: traditionally female
Positive Spirit:
Though often thought of as cowardly, Rabbit teaches the lesson of survival. Preyed on by nearly every neighbor, Rabbit teaches us how to endure with every tool at our disposal.
Those touched by Rabbit have keen senses of hearing and sight. They have an acute sense of danger and even precognition. Often Rabbit perceives an ambush before it is sprung. Likewise, Rabbit has a knack for knowing when to hide and when to run, for knowing when to freeze and when to dart in a completely unexpected direction and catch an opponent off guard. Sometimes viewed as unpredictable or spontaneous, those who know Rabbit better see an ability to react quickly and make the most of their enemy's confusion.
Rabbits are also extremely adaptable. Rabbit's fur, coloring, shape and extremities, as well as its diet, adapt to its conditions. Likewise, those touched by Rabbit are not slaves to convention or tradition, though their curiosity moves from a place of safety rather than bold adventure. Rabbit individuals perceive coming change and have the open and flexible mind to adapt accordingly.
Finally, Rabbit symbolizes fertility, for another way to survive when all seem bent on your destruction is to procreate. Rabbits often have many children and teach them well and quickly how to survive best in a potentially harsh world.
Negative Spirit:
Often the totem of females, Rabbit can tend to be fearful individuals. The perceived safety of hiding can become some Rabbit's only defense to the world and they can become overcautious and submissive.
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Post by Lekashna Wildmane on Apr 6, 2009 21:21:03 GMT -5
Totem Animal: Raptor
Element: fire Symbol: raptor head, claw marks Fetish: tooth Place of Power: open plains Gender: traditionally male with some very strong females
Positive Spirit:
There is no mistaking the influence of Raptor or the path those influenced by Raptor follow: hunter and warrior. Raptor lives for the chase and the kill. Raptor represents the fiery spirit of the hunt and of war. Where other hunting totems often act with patience and stealth, Raptor, though a skilled tracker, is impatient to reach its prey and revels in the actual battle.
Raptor symbolizes strength and speed combined. Those influenced by Raptor are ferocious in battle, near berserker in their frenzy, and instill fear in their enemies. Raptor has keen sense of both sight and smell and once an enemy is known, it is never forgotten. Raptor is merciless in his desire for revenge.
Raptors are often impatient, run when they could walk, exhibit fiery personalities, and attack even mundane labors. However, their impatience often makes them poor craftsmen and leaders. Yet, a wise war chief has several Raptors in his raiding party, just waiting to unleash them upon the enemy.
Negative Spirit:
As expected, Raptor must be careful not to rush headlong into insurmountable odds. Those influenced by Raptor can also be abrasive, rude in their impatience, and quick to anger. There is no doubt they are greatly prized in time of war, but they may find themselves ostracized by their family during peace.
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Post by Lekashna Wildmane on Apr 6, 2009 21:21:22 GMT -5
Totem Animal: Raven
Element: air Symbol: raven, black feather Fetish: feather Place of Power: a sheltered look-out Gender: male or female
Positive Spirit:
Raven is the messenger and carrier of gifts and knowledge between the worlds of the mystical and the physical. Raven symbolizes changes in awareness, in consciousness, and perception. Those touched by Raven are often attuned to magic and the spiritual.
Raven is also the shape-shifter, both literally (shaman and druids) and metaphorically. Those who walk with Raven are often skilled healers (both physical and spiritual) and counselors, for they can become their patients, thus feeling their ailment or inner struggle and use that empathy to better cure and advise.
Those who fly with Raven are able to put themselves in the another's shoes, know their minds, and by knowing them, alter them. It is a wise chief who has a Raven in his war council, for Raven knows the mind of the enemy.
Negative Spirit:
Those touched by Raven must be careful not to be too drawn in by the secrets and power of the mystical. A curiosity for knowledge can often lead to a desire for power. The Raven's ability to know another's mind can lead to manipulation and domination. Raven must be mindful of the allure of new knowledge as well. Evil often recruits with the promise of untold secrets and the promise of power. It was unsuspecting Raven who first were corrupted by the dark whispering beneath the earth in the Dawning of the Shu'halo.
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Post by Lekashna Wildmane on Apr 6, 2009 21:21:39 GMT -5
Totem Animal: Spider
Element: arcane Symbol: spider, web Fetish: spider leg, spider silk, fang Place of Power: none Gender: male and female
Positive Spirit:
Often misunderstood and feared, Spider is a powerful totem with strong mystical influence. Both Spider's body and web symbolize unity. Both begin from a centered point, a place of stability and inner focus, then radiate out in all directions. Spider symbolizes that from balance and centeredness, one can reach out confidently to all levels of awareness (physical and spiritual), all explorations, and do so with strength and stability.
Its web symbolizes both the individual and the world; existing at the center, each is surrounded by many forces, many paths and choices, often unseen and dangerous, mysterious and maze-like, but if studied well, understood and even traversed with skill. Those under the Spider often have a well developed sixth sense and are in tune with the unseen forces of the world that radiate like its web all around.
Spider, in its varied forms, also teaches adaptability. Many are consummate craftsman, toiling tirelessly to create beauty. Those touched by this aspect of Spider tend to be homemakers and caregivers, often staying close to the village. Such Spiders keep a meticulous home, always have something good to eat, and keep plenty stored for harder days.
Those influenced by the roaming aspect of Spider take on the qualities of the hunter. They excel in stalking and surprise. They masterfully lay traps and ambush, and are both patient in the hunt and explosive in their attack.
Finally, from poison comes antidote. Many attracted to Spider are drawn to the healing arts, especially the curing of poisons, for who knows venom better than the Spider?
Negative Spirit:
Spider must be careful not of their own failings, but of the misunderstanding of others about them. Those who walk with spider are often more withdrawn and quiet, watchful and at times unemotional. They can be viewed as uncaring, cold, and plotting.
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Post by Lekashna Wildmane on Apr 6, 2009 21:22:09 GMT -5
Totem Animal: Stag
Element: earth Symbol: antlers Fetish: piece of hide Place of Power: forest Gender: male
Positive Spirit:
Stag is another of the more ancient totems, originating from the times when Tauren roamed as far as Ashenvale. Though seldom seen so far south as the Tauren's current homelands, its nobility and strength keep Stag within the circle of totem animals.
Stag represents strength with speed, stamina, and nobility. Stags are patient and well paced. They do not tire easily nor lose patience with a task. The Stag knows how to pace himself for the long trek.
Stag are natural leaders, for they both set the example and work well with others. Those touched by the Stag appreciate family and encourage cooperation. Though they are often the cause of success, a true Stag can allow others to take credit as well.
As protector of the herd, Stag are also warriors. Though not aggressive by nature, the Stag will fight fiercely to protect his tribe. A Stag's honor and bravery often earn him the respect of his enemies.
Stag is closely tied to the seasons. Those touched by Stag are hardy and resourceful in times of seasonal hardship and are quickly revitalized when good living returns. Like their animal counterparts, Tauren who walk with Stag are strongly affected by the allure of females and Stags are often very handsome and virile.
As in rutting season, Stag is protective of his mate(s) and often attracts the attention of females other than his wife. Though Stags greatly enjoy the companionship of other males, they will not tolerate competition when it comes to love.
Negative Spirit:
Especially in the matter of females, Stag can become rather arrogant and conceited. In Stag's mind, when it comes to procreation, there should be only one leader of the herd.
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Post by Lekashna Wildmane on Apr 6, 2009 21:22:29 GMT -5
otem Animal: Swoop
Element: air Symbol: talon, feather Fetish: feather Place of Power: open plains Gender: male or female
Positive Spirit:
Though bearing some of the basic traits of the other bird totems, Swoop is a wily opportunist rather than a bold warrior. Swoop will work with guile and patience to find the best time to strike, to get the most from a situation, and remain elusive until that time comes. Swoop is not proud but rather looks at the end result. Swoop knows he is not as fast as Hawk or as powerful as Eagle. But if carrion is all that is available, Swoop will eat enough to survive where Hawk and Eagle may starve with their pride. Swoop will endure until a better hunting day.
Those under the Swoop are often cunning, mentally agile, and act when opportunity presents itself. Often misjudged as underhanded or at least less forthright than other animals, Swoop simply knows how to get the most out of a situation, to make the best of what is presented, and to plan for the next opportunity to gain a little more. Swoop learns quickly from life's lessons and deftly applies that knowledge to new situations.
Do not underestimate Swoop in battle. When he determines the time to strike is at hand, it is done with speed and strength. The flurried attack of Swoop is often unexpected, underestimated, and catches those who expected less off guard.
Negative Spirit:
What makes Swoop successful can also be its greatest challenge among its own people. The cunning and guile that defeats enemies can become worrisome within a Swoop's tribe as members question whether they too are being duped. Swoop can become too dependant on his ability to get out of work or using a quick tongue to avoid responsibility.
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Post by Lekashna Wildmane on Apr 6, 2009 21:22:49 GMT -5
Totem Animal: Thunderhawk
Element: air and arcane Symbol: lightning Fetish: piece of hide Place of Power: open plains or high bluffs, especially during storms Gender: male or female
Positive Spirit:
One of the most mystically charged of the totem animals, Thunderhawk symbolizes the bond between the heavens and the mystic world. More mystical in appearance than any of the other totems, Thunderhawk has an air of otherworldliness. Likewise, those influenced by Thunderhawk often seem different, more detached from the physical and attuned to the spirit world. Thunderhawks are skilled prophets, seers, mystics, and mediums. Some of the Tauren's most fabled Shaman and Druids were heavily influenced by Thunderhawk.
For all this spirituality, Thunderhawk can also be an aggressive totem. When threatened, those under this totem have both a physical and arcane arsenal at their disposal. Even warriors touched by the Thunderhawk seem more apt to wield weapons of mystic power and battle with an insightfulness that stems from their spiritual centeredness.
Those who fly with Thunderhawk are greatly interested in knowledge. These Tauren understand that knowledge is power. They will often be found questing for mystical treasures or assigning such chores to those in their care.
Negative Spirit:
Like Owl, those under the influence of Thunderhawk must be careful that their seemingly different ways do not alienate them from their own tribe. Also, with a desire for knowledge and arcane power comes the snare of greed. Like Raven, many of the Tauren first corrupted by the dark whisperings beneath the earth at the dawning of the world were likely Thunderhawks tempted by promises of knowledge.
A note: When the ancient tribes first discussed totem animals, they did not know that Thunderhawks were the children of the Blood God, Hakkar. While the traits still hold true, most who chose this totem tend to be shunned due to the new knowledge of what these creatures truly are. Those who associate with this totem animal often keep the knowledge to themselves...or simply replace Thunderhawk with Dragon, hoping no one will know the difference.
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Post by Lekashna Wildmane on Apr 6, 2009 21:23:14 GMT -5
Totem Animal: Thunderlizard
Element: earth and air Symbol: horn with lightning Fetish: scale, horn Place of Power: plains, especially during a storm Gender: traditionally male
Positive Spirit:
The most bombastic of the totems, Thunderlizard is loud, boisterous, booming and anything but subtle. Often boastful, Thunderlizard has the sheer size, strength and energy to back up his claims. Those who fall under this totem have strong, sometimes overwhelming personalities, are hardheaded, opinionated, and quick to anger. Certainly they do not understand how they might offend their tribe members, because they are, of course, always right.
Though they are closely tied to the powers of air, it is a union with little control. Unlike Giraffe, Thunderlizard seems unaware of the power he could wield from the heavenly forces to which he is tied. There is no finesse to Thunderlizard's manipulation of these forces. Rather, much like his personality, his power is limited to thunderous attack after thunderous attack. One of Thunderlizard's lessons is that of missed opportunity. Thus, those influenced by Thunderlizard are seldom Shaman or Druids, lacking the patience necessary to study either art. Thunderlizards are nearly always warriors.
If kept on a short leash, Thunderlizard is a valued member of any war party. His relentless attack can quickly demoralize an enemy. But a wise war chief keeps Thunderlizard in the rear until the battle has begun. If allowed to lead, every chance for surprise would be lost.
Negative spirit:
Thunderlizards seldom have the patience for crafting. Those that do, inevitably lean to mining and smithing so as to add to their might in battle. At home, Thunderlizards are often irritable and unable to sit for long. Like the lightning caged within, the Thunderlizard needs to vent his energy frequently.
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Post by Lekashna Wildmane on Apr 6, 2009 21:23:31 GMT -5
Totem Animal: Tiger
Element: water Symbol: paw, stripes Fetish: claw Place of Power: tall grass, often by water Gender: though traditionally male, strong females have been touched by Tiger
Positive Spirit:
Unlike Lion, Tiger is a solitary spirit. Except for mating, the two genders have little to do with one another. Tiger is a strong, independent, loner though he is often a good teacher of his skills.
A true warrior totem, Tiger is a stalker. He does not waste energy in the hunt and will ambush with ferocity when the opportunity is at hand, and he always uses the terrain to his advantage. Once the battle begins, Tiger is an unstoppable force.
Similarly in personality, Tiger is often quiet and watchful. Tiger's gaze cuts through deception and illusion and sees the truth of a matter or individual. Those touched by Tiger often have unwavering gazes and their stare can make others uncomfortable.
Unlike other cats, Tiger is at home in water, often using water as a trap. Likewise, Tauren who walk with Tiger enjoy the water, unlike most of their brethren.
Finally, Tiger is a night hunter. Those influenced by him enjoy the night, hunt unhindered under the moon, and are strongly affected by its phases.
Negative Spirit:
As with Wolf, Tigers must be careful of becoming too separate from the tribe. Though their spirit is a solitary one, they must not lose sight of the benefits that the tribe can offer or the value of their own skills for the tribe's prosperity.
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Post by Lekashna Wildmane on Apr 6, 2009 21:23:56 GMT -5
Totem Animal: Turtle
Element: water and arcane Symbol: shell Fetish: shell or scale Place of Power: one's home Gender: given its closeness to the Earthmother, traditionally female, though some male Shaman are touched by Turtle
Positive Spirit:
Turtle symbolizes both the grounding spirit of water and the magic of the mystical. To know Turtle is to know balance and harmony. Because of their peaceful nature rooted in balance and harmony, those influenced by turtle are nurturing, caring Tauren. Turtle is protective yet unagressive in nature.
Turtles are calm, never quick to judge or hasty in their decisions. The pace of Turtle is one that measures time. Turtle is never rushed, for he is also the symbol of longevity. If a thing is worth doing, the time to do it right is well spent. Turtle is a deep thinker, a thorough planner, and a meticulous investigator.
Finally, those who walk the slow and steady path of Turtle do so with the heightened senses of one attuned to possible danger. Turtle is very sensitive to vibration, both physical and spiritual. And when threatened, Turtle will always have a stalwart defense prepared. When war chiefs go off to battle, it is Turtle they confidently leave to defend the village.
Negative Spirit:
Turtle can become too prolonged in their consideration of a problem. There are times that call for swift decisions. Also, some Turtles may become paranoid and anal in the degree to which they worry over preparations, both for mundane planning and possible danger.
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Post by Lekashna Wildmane on Apr 6, 2009 21:24:26 GMT -5
Totem Animal: Wolf
Element: Earth Symbol: howling wolf, wolf head with moon Fetish: fang Place of Power: a place open to the sky at night with a visible moon Gender: male or female
Positive Spirit:
Wolf is fiercely loyal and protective of his family and tribe, his principles and beliefs, and his territory. A wolf influenced Tauren does not entertain ideas of encroachment by outsiders, either physically or in custom. Wolf is a traditionalist. Tradition maintains the integrity of the pack and the tribe.
Wolf is very mindful of tribal structure. Young are taught their place well so that they may assume their proper role in the tribe and lead others when their time comes. A Wolf influenced tribe has clear social boundaries and structure. In his role as social organizer, Wolf is an excellent judge of character and potential, a masterful observer, and an expert teacher. It is no surprise that wolf spirits are often guides to spiritual enlightenment.
Wolf is also a warrior, but he excels in group combat. Wolf knows how to utilize the advantage of teamwork and does not needlessly enter into single contests, especially against outsiders. To the Wolf, honor and prestige in battle is best when shared with the tribe.
Finally, wolf is an adventurer, with a strong wandering spirit and inquisitive mind. Those under his influence are often hunters and scouts. For this reason, many Wolves are loners for long periods, but operate as such with the certainty that the tribe endures during their absence and awaits their return.
Negative Spirit:
The Wolf must be careful not to be away from the tribe for too long, for the closeness of family maintains Wolf's balance. Such Wolves may become out of touch with the natural changes and adaptations of their tribe and return to find themselves strangers among their own. The most dangerous Wolves are those who become too totalitarian in their view of tradition, inflexible in their adherence to tribal custom, and domineering in their teaching.
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Post by Lekashna Wildmane on Apr 6, 2009 21:24:44 GMT -5
Totem Animal: Zhevra
Element: earth Symbol: stripes Fetish: tooth Place of Power: plains Gender: both male and female
Positive Spirit:
The spirit of the Zhevra is freewilled, noble, and adventurous. The Zhevra symbolizes the wanderer. Zhevra are tireless travelers, paying close attention to new discoveries, and returning home with knowledge and treasures from foreign lands.
Though often found in herds, Zhevra tend to be loners. To survive, those touched by Zhevra will have keen senses of sight, smell, and hearing. Their first defense is the great speed at which they can travel across open ground, but Zhevra are not cowardly when cornered. Often underestimated, Zhevra can be formidable opponents.
One of the more exotic totems, Zhevra embodies the unknown and the new. Zhevra Tauren are constantly looking for the unique and unseen. The mosaic of their hide and mystical properties of their horn both hint at hidden surprises, wealth, and discovery. Those who follow the tracks of the Zhevra delight in new things and greatly benefit their tribe by sharing their discoveries. Tribal messengers and ambassadors are often under the sign of the Zhevra.
Negative Spirit:
Zhevra must be careful not to become too obsessed in finding the new and unique. Such desires can lead to foolhardy risks.
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Post by Krolbrim on Apr 9, 2009 6:23:15 GMT -5
Am I the only one who thinks this idea is made of awesome? Because I do and it is.
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Post by Huatar Earthspear on Apr 9, 2009 18:56:48 GMT -5
It is, indeed, awesomeness to the CORE.
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Post by Pishnek on Apr 13, 2009 15:26:10 GMT -5
I think we should definitely use this. I already picked my totem ;D (after reading all of them). Perhaps it could be made into a ceremony event, no?
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