Totem Link

 

This Praxis allows a sorcerer, most commonly a Kinfolk or shaman, to enhance her bond with her chosen totem. Unlike the Gifts granted to the Garou, these powers come purely from the study and dedication of the sorcerer. Only shamans or characters with the Merit: Totem may study this path.

 

Basic:

 

Opening the Senses

This simple spell allows you to attune your senses to match your chosentotem’s senses, gaining the extra perceptions inherent to that species. Thus, a follower of Hawk may be able to see a mouse from a mile away, and a student of Lynx could see in near darkness. The senses of plants are more subtle but just as powerful. A sorcerer who has dedicated herself to Oak might be able to sense upcoming weather or seismic disturbances. When this path is learned, you should consult with a Storyteller to determine exactly what sorts of perceptions you acquire.

 

Totem Gift

This spell grants you one physical characteristic of your chosen totem, similar to the Shapeshifting spell: Change Self. Aquatic totems would allow you to breathe underwater; predators might grant claws. Consult with your Storyteller if you are uncertain about the benefits that might be gained from a particular totem.

 

Intermediate:

 

Adaptation

As you become more in tune with the essence and lifestyle of your spirit guide, this rite allows you to survive comfortably in any environment that your totem calls home. A shaman dedicated to Orca would not suffer from prolonged exposure to or consumption of seawater, whereas a student of Wendigo would be comfortable in bitter arctic cold. This protection lasts one day for each temporary Willpower Trait spent, and these Traits may not be regained until you have had time to recuperate in a more hospitable setting.

 

Wisdom of the Spirit

Similar to Adaptation, this spell allows you to tap into the knowledge and teaching of your totem. The specific knowledge gained depends upon the nature of your spirit guide. Each success on an Extended Static Mental Test provides you with one relevant piece of information in the form of Narrator clues.

 

Advanced:

 

Form of the Beast

This spell is equivalent to the Shapeshifting spell: Second Form, though only shapes and features appropriate to your totem may be selected. Because of your close association with this spirit, you do not risk any loss of personality, no matter how long you remain in your altered shape. In addition, you may assume this totem form even if it represents an extinct or mythical beast. You must spend a full turn in transformation.

 

Master:

 

Intervention

You may petition your patron spirit for aid in times of great need. After spending a temporary Willpower Trait, you may undertake an Extended Simple Test to determine how much help will arrive. The specific form of this assistance is up to the Storyteller, though it will always be appropriate to your totem. Thus, a follower of Dolphin lost at sea may be found by a local pod, whereas a student of Rabbit might come across a warm, safe shelter in the wilderness. However, neither Rabbit nor Dolphin could be called upon to attack your enemies - it’s just not appropriate to the totem’s nature. On the other hand, Rat or Wasp might be more than happy to summon a related swarm for that very purpose.