Theurge (Werewolf: the Apocalypse)

This is an old revision of this page, as edited by Yamavu (talk | contribs) at 09:08, 31 July 2004. The present address (URL) is a permanent link to this revision, which may differ significantly from the current revision.

Theurge is an auspice of Garou (werewolves) from the Werewolf the Apocalypse role-playing game. It destinies Garou born under crescent moon for life path of shaman.

While in the real world, rational-thinking sceptics may think that the shaman is nothing more than a primitive clergyman, deranged herbalist or spooky crook, this is not so in World of Darkness. While every Garou can deal with spirits only theurges enjoy especially close relationship with them. Thanks to it they are natural mystics, soothsayers, healers, pardoners and magicians - all with real power.

Becoming a theurge

Duties of theurges

Clergymen

Every Garou is expected to fit its role in society the first task of theurge is to be mediator between society and spirits. As such its role is equivalent to that of priest.

His duty to society is to ensure the favour of spirits. To this end he performs rites providing them with offerings and homage and public ceremonies that affirm the close relationship between the tribe and its totems, ancestors and guardians.

While the ceremonies certainly keep Garou reverent and their society cemented, it is also the duty of theurge to spread the spirit reverence in human society too. This is important because faith of population drives spirits and their world closer.

They also parley with spirits to provide society with their boons. If spirit has something to say to a tribe it is a theurge that conveys and interpretes (usually cryptic) message.

Healers of body and soul

Most theurges are accomplished herbalists but their true healing power is given by spirits. Their Mother's touch gift easily mends most grievous wounds and various rites like Rite of Purification dispels spiritual corruption. As Garou are waging constant bloody war on Great Corrupter theurges are invaluable as field medics.

Even after battle their help is essential in tending other Garou gnosis, lifting weariness from soul and countering excessive rage.

Magicians

Theurges command vast power indeed - for their spiritual allies grant them various powers allowing them to curse enemies, bless with various boons, summon elemental manifestations and perform combat divination and early warning. Of course it isn't free - theurge pays with reverence, services, oaths and sacrifices. Even more costly is fetish making.

Finally theurges act as exorcists protecting the society and warriors in battle from banes. They can even bind or suppress much more powerful Banes with their rites keeping them in lethargy for centuries (as Bane Tenders of the Uktena tribe do).