![[Skerrit.png|400]] **Lesser Deity | Patron of Centaurs and Natural Balance** **Alignment**: Neutral (Chaotic Good tendencies) **Also Known As**: The Forester, Forest Walker, Lord of the Herds, Hunter in the Green **Divine Portfolio**: Centaurs, Community, Natural Balance **Divine Realm**: Skerrit's Glade, Krigala, Beastlands **Affiliation**: The Seelie Court, Sylvan Pantheon **Holy Symbol**: An Oak Growing from an Acorn **Divine Domains**: Animal, Good, Healing, Plant, Sun; Nature in later traditions **Favoured Weapon**: Spear --- ### **Overview** Skerrit the Forester is the patron deity of centaurs and a guardian of woodland communities, whose divine responsibilities encompass natural balance, the preservation of forests, and the protection of creatures dwelling within sylvan lands. Recognised as a lesser deity of the sylvan pantheon, he represents the guiding influence of nature that allows predators, prey, and the wider forest community to fulfil their respective roles. Unlike deities concerned exclusively with the protection of particular animals or the preservation of individual habitats, Skerrit maintains a broader understanding of the natural world. He recognises that hunters require prey, while the creatures they pursue depend upon vegetation and other natural resources for survival. His influence is therefore associated with the continued existence of these relationships rather than the elimination of predation or other natural processes. Skerrit is generally regarded as a kindly and merciful deity, although he possesses considerable strength and martial ability. His compassion is particularly evident in his concern for centaur communities, whose peaceful and secluded existence frequently places them near the boundaries of dangerous wilderness regions. Although he prefers to avoid unnecessary conflict, Skerrit is prepared to defend his followers against hostile creatures and the servants of evil powers. His interventions are often discreet, involving the observation of approaching threats and the communication of warnings rather than immediate confrontation. Skerrit commonly appears as an exceptionally powerful male centaur with chestnut-brown hair. His divine manifestation is approximately twelve feet long and wears a magical chainmail vest capable of changing colour according to his wishes. He carries a golden-tipped spear and an enchanted longbow, reflecting his skill in hunting and combat. However, his appearance is not restricted to that of a centaur. Skerrit can assume the form of any natural forest creature and has been known to exercise his influence through ordinary plants and animals. These manifestations allow him to observe events within woodland regions and communicate with his followers without revealing his full divine presence. Skerrit maintains connections with the Seelie Court, although he prefers the independence of his own divine realm. He belongs to its Outer Circle and maintains friendly relations with several sylvan deities, particularly those whose interests concern the protection of woodland creatures. His religious following is strongest among centaurs and satyrs, although some sylvan elves also acknowledge him. His worship emphasises community, cooperation, responsible hunting, and the preservation of natural balance. --- ### **Domain and Influence** Skerrit's principal divine realm is **Skerrit's Glade**, located within Krigala, the first layer of the Beastlands. The Beastlands are an Outer Plane characterised by extraordinary natural abundance, where forests, mountains, rivers, and plains support immense populations of animals and other creatures. Its environments are governed by the instincts and relationships of the natural world, including the continual interaction between predators and prey. Krigala is the sunlit layer of the Beastlands, where the landscape is illuminated by a perpetual day. Its forests and grasslands provide a suitable home for Skerrit and the centaurs who dwell within his protection. Skerrit's Glade lies within a secluded temperate forest near the foothills of Krigala's mountains. The realm is distinguished by its peaceful atmosphere, extensive woodland, and abundant vegetation. Its forests contain a mixture of deciduous and evergreen trees, including oak, maple, pine, and cedar. The air is filled with the scents of the woodland, while small birds inhabit the surrounding branches. At the centre of the realm stands a great clearing enclosed by an immense ring of ancient oak trees. Here, centaurs gather to welcome visitors, conduct religious activities, and maintain the traditions associated with their patron. The grass within the glade is exceptionally soft and sweet, providing abundant grazing for its centaur inhabitants. Its tranquillity is so profound that visitors may experience an unusual sense of mental clarity after remaining within the realm. Unlike the grand cities and palaces maintained by many divine powers, Skerrit's Glade possesses no large central settlement. Its inhabitants occupy small groups of huts and simple shelters scattered throughout the forest. Many centaurs prefer to sleep beneath the trees, protected by the surrounding woodland. This arrangement reflects the independence and privacy valued by Skerrit's followers, who generally prefer small communities rather than densely populated settlements. Skerrit's influence extends beyond the immediate boundaries of his glade. He protects the surrounding sylvan territories and maintains friendly relations with the other divine powers inhabiting the Beastlands. His realm has been visited by **Fionnghuala**, the goddess of swanmays; **Emmantiensien**, the lord of treants; and **Eachthighern**, the protector of unicorns and pegasi. The wandering Seelie Court of Titania and Oberon has also visited Skerrit's Glade. Although Skerrit maintains these relationships, he prefers to govern his realm independently, rather than remain constantly involved in the activities of the wider Seelie Court. His responsibilities also extend to woodland communities upon the Material Plane. Centaurs traditionally inhabit the outer regions of great forests, particularly those surrounding the deeper territories of the faerie folk. These locations provide access to grazing and hunting grounds while allowing their inhabitants to maintain peaceful relations with the creatures dwelling farther within the woods. Skerrit acts as a guardian of these borderlands, protecting centaur settlements and maintaining the security of the surrounding wilderness. In return, other sylvan deities occasionally provide magical assistance or gifts to the centaurs when their communities are threatened. His influence therefore concerns not merely the preservation of trees and animals, but the continued existence of woodland communities and the relationships that sustain them. --- ### **Symbols and Icons** Skerrit's established holy symbol is **an oak tree growing from an acorn**. The emblem reflects the continuity of life and the relationship between an individual living thing and the wider natural world. The acorn represents the beginning of growth, while the mature oak embodies the strength and endurance that develop through time. Its significance is consistent with Skerrit's responsibility for maintaining natural balance and preserving the communities that depend upon the forest. The oak also holds an important place within his divine realm. The central clearing of Skerrit's Glade is surrounded by enormous ancient oaks beneath which his followers gather. The symbol is employed by centaurs and other worshippers who acknowledge Skerrit as their divine patron. His spear is another recognisable object associated with his divine manifestation. Although not his formal holy symbol, it reflects his role as a hunter and protector. Likewise, his centaur form has become the principal representation of his appearance among the communities that honour him. No established official symbol consisting of crossed hooves beneath an oak, an ivy-wreathed spear, or a bow beneath a crescent moon is recorded in the principal descriptions of his religion. --- ### **Worship and Tributes** The worship of Skerrit is closely connected to the traditions of centaur communities and their relationship with the natural world. His followers recognise the importance of maintaining harmony between hunting, grazing, and the preservation of woodland environments. Religious practices emphasise the responsibilities of the community and the relationship between different creatures occupying the same habitat. Skerrit is particularly honoured through **ritual hunts and dances conducted during the nights of the full moon**. These ceremonies provide opportunities for centaur and satyr communities to gather, renew their relationships, and acknowledge their divine patron. The hunts are frequently mock pursuits rather than attempts to kill a particular animal. Participants demonstrate their tracking abilities, speed, and understanding of the surrounding wilderness. The ceremonies reflect Skerrit's responsibilities as a hunter without requiring unnecessary destruction of wildlife. Among satyrs, the full-moon gatherings can involve several neighbouring bands. Their members assemble to exchange stories, celebrate their patron, and participate in contests of physical ability. These gatherings may include wrestling competitions and mock hunts conducted around ceremonial fires. One traditional contest awards the title of **Hunter** to the victor, who retains the distinction until the following full moon. During this period, the successful participant receives recognition within the community and certain privileges, including a choice of food at communal gatherings. The celebrations conclude with a substantial feast, after which the assembled bands return to their respective territories. The ceremonies reinforce the communal character of Skerrit's faith. Although hunting ability is respected, the gatherings also encourage cooperation and the maintenance of relationships between otherwise independent groups. Skerrit's worshippers are not required to reject hunting or the consumption of animals. His teachings recognise these activities as ordinary aspects of natural existence. The responsibility of his followers is to understand the relationships supporting the forest and avoid conduct that threatens their continued balance. --- ### **Clergy and Temples** Skerrit possesses an established religious following among centaurs, whose priests and shamans occupy important positions within their communities. Unlike religious institutions organised around permanent temples and extensive hierarchies, his priesthood is closely connected to the leadership of individual centaur bands. Priests frequently act as community leaders, preserving religious traditions while providing practical guidance to those under their care. Their responsibilities include the protection of hunting parties, the identification of dangerous creatures, and the organisation of expeditions intended to remove threats to their communities. They also determine migration routes and advise their followers when changing circumstances require a band to establish a new home. These duties reflect Skerrit's concern for the survival and stability of centaur communities. Religious knowledge and responsibilities are frequently passed from one generation to the next, traditionally from father to son, although daughters may also inherit the role. Skerrit's priests generally wear **tan garments decorated with leaves**, reflecting their connection to the forest. Their ceremonial clothing is simple, consisting of leafy vests rather than elaborate robes or heavily ornamented armour. When travelling or defending their communities, priests may wear leather armour or chainmail vests. The spear holds particular significance within the priesthood, serving as a traditional weapon of centaur religious leaders. Priests are expected to possess knowledge of the natural world and the practical skills necessary for surviving within it. Their training includes the identification of plants, animals, and clean water, along with an understanding of healing and the treatment of injuries. Their religious duties also include officiating at the dances and mock hunts through which Skerrit is honoured. Satyrs maintain their own traditions of worship, although older accounts distinguish their religious practices from the formal priesthood of centaurs. Skerrit's temples are generally **large woodland groves**, where neighbouring bands can gather without requiring permanent structures. These sacred places serve as settings for religious ceremonies, community meetings, and seasonal gatherings. The central clearing of Skerrit's Glade provides an especially important example, surrounded by ancient oak trees and protected by the divine power of the Forester. His worship therefore remains closely connected to woodland communities rather than extensive temple complexes or permanent religious settlements. --- ### **Powers and Abilities** Skerrit possesses considerable divine power associated with animals, woodland environments, hunting, and the protection of centaur communities. His supernatural abilities include transformation, druidic magic, extraordinary movement, and the capacity to influence the creatures and vegetation surrounding him. **The Forester's Form** Skerrit can assume the form of any natural forest creature. Although he is most commonly represented as a powerful male centaur, his divine nature permits him to manifest through other woodland animals when circumstances require it. This ability allows him to observe events without revealing himself and to communicate with his followers through appearances that may initially seem ordinary. **The Spirit of the Wild** Skerrit can temporarily exercise his influence through plants and animals. Creatures affected by his presence may behave in unusual ways, carrying out actions that reflect his intentions. Such manifestations are particularly important when he wishes to warn his followers of danger without sending a visible divine avatar. **The Golden-Tipped Spear** Skerrit's traditional avatar carries an enchanted spear with a golden tip. The weapon possesses considerable magical power and can inflict severe injuries upon dangerous opponents. Its use reflects his martial ability and his willingness to defend the centaur communities under his protection. The spear is particularly associated with his centaur manifestation, in which he appears as an exceptionally strong and accomplished warrior. **The Enchanted Longbow** Skerrit also possesses a powerful magical longbow and a quiver of enchanted arrows. These weapons allow him to engage enemies at a distance, reflecting his considerable skill as a hunter. His proficiency with both bow and spear makes him formidable in open combat, although he generally prefers to avoid unnecessary confrontation. **The Forester's Gallop** Skerrit's centaur manifestation possesses extraordinary speed. For a short period, he can gallop at three times his ordinary movement rate, allowing him to cross considerable distances or respond rapidly to danger. The exertion requires a period of rest before he can repeat the feat. This ability reflects the exceptional physical endurance traditionally associated with the strongest centaur warriors. **Woodland Protection** When Skerrit fights within a forest, the surrounding vegetation actively interferes with his enemies. Branches move to obstruct attacks, while leaves and other woodland growth distract creatures attempting to strike him. This protection demonstrates his close relationship with the forest and grants him considerable advantages when defending woodland territory. **Druidic Magic** Skerrit's traditional avatar possesses extensive druidic spellcasting abilities. These include magic associated with animals, plants, healing, protection, and sunlight. His divine abilities allow him to influence woodland environments and assist creatures whose survival depends upon the health of the natural world. His magical powers also provide methods of defending centaur communities without necessarily relying upon direct physical combat. **Divine Awareness** Skerrit's connection to woodland creatures allows him to gather information through unusual animal behaviour. He may use ordinary forest animals to observe movements near centaur settlements or warn his followers about approaching enemies. This ability is especially important because his traditional methods favour the early detection of danger rather than the pursuit of open warfare. The precise extent of Skerrit's divine power depends upon the manifestation involved. The descriptions of his avatar establish his ability to transform, fight, and employ druidic magic, but do not grant him unlimited authority over every creature or forest throughout the multiverse. --- ### **Treatment of the Chosen and Faithful** Skerrit is generally kind and merciful toward those who honour him, particularly centaurs and other creatures maintaining peaceful communities within sylvan lands. His protection is most evident when these communities face threats from dangerous monsters or the servants of evil powers. Under such circumstances, he may send an avatar to assist his followers. However, Skerrit does not invariably confront enemies through direct combat. His avatars have also been known to patrol the edges of woodland territories, observing approaching dangers and communicating warnings to the centaurs and faerie folk living nearby. This behaviour reflects his preference for preventing unnecessary harm rather than responding to every threat with violence. Skerrit may also send omens to his priests through the unusual behaviour of animals. Such signs are particularly associated with the mock hunts performed during full-moon ceremonies. A forest creature behaving in an unexpected manner may indicate that Skerrit is attempting to communicate a warning or draw attention to a particular danger. His priests are therefore expected to possess a detailed understanding of animals and the ordinary patterns of woodland life. The divine abilities granted to his religious servants are closely connected to their responsibilities. Their magic can assist in healing injuries, recognising useful plants, identifying pure water, and protecting communities against hostile creatures. More experienced priests may employ powerful woodland magic, including the creation of walls of thorns. These blessings are practical expressions of Skerrit's concern for the welfare of his followers. No established religious account describes a universal system of permanent marks, supernatural increases in speed, infallible archery, or curses imposed upon every individual who offends him. His protection is primarily demonstrated through divine intervention, the abilities of his priesthood, and the preservation of natural balance. --- ### **Myths and Legends** **The Guiding Hand of Nature** Skerrit is traditionally regarded as a representation of the forces that maintain balance throughout the natural world. His responsibility is not to favour predators over prey or preserve every individual creature from harm. Instead, he maintains the relationships through which the inhabitants of the forest continue to survive. Hunters depend upon the availability of prey, while the creatures they pursue require vegetation and other resources. Both are necessary parts of the wider natural community. This understanding distinguishes Skerrit's divine responsibilities from those of powers concerned exclusively with particular animals or the protection of individual species. **The Guardian of the Sylvan Borders** Centaur communities traditionally inhabit the outer regions of great forests, where their territories border the deeper woodland homes of the faerie folk. These locations provide a measure of protection through their proximity to powerful sylvan creatures, while allowing the centaurs to retain their independence. Skerrit maintains a close relationship with the other sylvan gods because of his responsibilities toward these borderlands. He protects centaur settlements against dangerous intruders, while the neighbouring faerie powers may provide magical assistance when serious threats arise. This cooperation has allowed centaur communities to exist alongside the deeper inhabitants of sylvan forests without becoming entirely dependent upon them. **The Glade of the Forester** Skerrit's Glade is among the most peaceful regions of the Beastlands. The realm lies within a temperate forest in the foothills of Krigala's mountains, where the natural abundance of the plane is expressed through enormous trees, fertile grass, and the songs of woodland birds. At its centre is a clearing surrounded by a great ring of ancient oaks. Centaurs dwell throughout the surrounding woodland, maintaining small settlements and gathering within the clearing when important matters require their attention. The realm possesses no great central fortress or imposing city. Its tranquillity reflects the character of Skerrit, whose concerns centre upon the security of his people and the preservation of their natural surroundings. Those who remain within the glade for an extended period may experience an unusual improvement in mental clarity and judgment. This property has contributed to the realm's reputation as a place of peaceful reflection. **The Guardians of Skerrit's Glade** The inhabitants of Skerrit's Glade maintain a careful balance between hospitality and privacy. Among its recognised leaders is **Deelah Chestnut**, a respected centaur shaman who receives visitors and determines whether they may remain within the realm. Her authority is acknowledged by the other centaurs, whose preference for secluded living makes them cautious about admitting unfamiliar travellers. The borders of the glade are patrolled by **Arcadeon Russetmane**, a centaur ranger accompanied by lance-bearing warriors. Arcadeon is considerably less welcoming toward outsiders, particularly humans, and may refuse entry to those whose intentions appear questionable. Elves are generally treated with greater tolerance because of the longstanding relationships between centaurs and the sylvan peoples. Visitors requiring shelter or recovery from injuries may receive assistance, provided their presence does not threaten the glade or the wider Beastlands. However, the inhabitants expect guests to depart once their immediate needs have been addressed. Those who remain beyond their welcome may be forcibly escorted from the realm. **The Friendship of the Sylvan Gods** Skerrit maintains friendly relations with several members of the sylvan pantheon. His realm has been visited by Fionnghuala, Emmantiensien, Eachthighern, and the wandering Seelie Court. These relationships reflect his position among the powers concerned with protecting woodland creatures and their communities. Skerrit is also recognised as a member of the Outer Circle of the Seelie Court. Unlike the gods who spend much of their existence in close attendance upon Titania, Skerrit prefers the independence of his own realm. Nevertheless, his willingness to cooperate with the sylvan powers makes him an important ally when their communities face danger. **The Friendship of Caoimhin** Skerrit maintains a particularly close relationship with **[[Caoimhin]]**, the demigod of the killmoulis. Caoimhin is renowned for his timid disposition and limited interest in dangerous confrontations. Skerrit has occasionally sent his divine manifestation to accompany and protect Caoimhin's weaker avatar. Their friendship reflects the protective responsibilities of the Forester, whose concern extends beyond centaurs to other members of the sylvan fellowship. Skerrit's willingness to assist Caoimhin is also consistent with his reputation as a kindly and merciful deity. **The Fellowship of the Elven Gods** Skerrit maintains friendly relationships with several members of the Seldarine. Among these, **Rillifane Rallathil** is particularly important because of his own responsibilities concerning woodlands and nature. The two share an interest in the preservation of forests and the creatures inhabiting them. The worship of Skerrit among certain sylvan elves has therefore not produced significant conflict with the followers of Rillifane. Skerrit is also associated with **Solonor Thelandira**, the elven god of hunting and archery, whose responsibilities complement the Forester's concern for the natural balance. **The Full-Moon Hunts** The full moon is the principal occasion for the ceremonies conducted in honour of Skerrit. Centaurs gather for dances and mock hunts, celebrating the hunting skills and communal relationships central to their lives. Satyr communities also maintain traditions of full-moon celebration. Some gatherings attract numerous neighbouring bands, whose members share accounts of hunting exploits before competing in contests of tracking and physical ability. The festivities may include wrestling and ceremonial mock hunts. The successful participant may receive the title of Hunter until the following full moon, enjoying special recognition among the assembled bands. The celebrations conclude with a feast before the participants disperse and return to their homes. These ceremonies preserve the communal character of Skerrit's worship and reinforce the relationships between the separate groups who acknowledge him. **The Warnings of the Forester** Skerrit frequently prefers to communicate through the natural world rather than appear directly before his worshippers. During mock hunts, his priests may observe unusual behaviour among the animals participating in or inhabiting the surrounding forest. Such occurrences are regarded as possible omens concerning dangers that threaten the community. Skerrit's avatars may also patrol the edges of woodland territories, watching for hostile creatures and providing warnings before an attack occurs. His methods reflect his concern for preventing harm to the centaurs and other sylvan beings under his protection. Although he possesses formidable martial abilities, his interventions are frequently intended to ensure that his followers can recognise danger and prepare an appropriate response. --- ### **Encounters with Skerrit's Influence** Skerrit's influence is most likely to be encountered among centaur communities inhabiting the borders of great forests. Travellers approaching such settlements may encounter religious leaders responsible for organising hunting parties, selecting migration routes, and maintaining the safety of their people. The priests of Skerrit possess considerable knowledge of woodland environments and may provide assistance to those seeking safe passage through dangerous territory. However, centaur communities are generally secluded and may react with suspicion toward strangers who approach their homes without permission. An encounter with the Forester's influence may also involve unusual animal behaviour. A creature acting in an unexpected manner during a ceremonial hunt may be interpreted by local priests as a divine warning. Such signs are particularly significant when dangerous creatures or hostile forces are approaching the settlement. Travellers exploring the Beastlands may seek Skerrit's Glade, the secluded divine realm located within the forests of Krigala. Those who reach the glade discover a peaceful community of centaurs living among ancient oaks and fertile meadows. Visitors may be received by Deelah Chestnut, who determines whether they have legitimate reasons to remain. Those approaching the borders may instead encounter Arcadeon Russetmane and his patrol of lance-bearing warriors. The inhabitants may provide temporary refuge or assistance to individuals recovering from injuries, but they are unlikely to tolerate visitors who threaten the glade or refuse to respect its seclusion. A direct encounter with Skerrit is considerably less common. His divine manifestations frequently take the appearance of woodland creatures, allowing him to observe others without revealing his identity. When he appears openly, he may take the form of a powerful centaur armed with his golden-tipped spear and enchanted bow. Those approaching him should recognise that his generally peaceful nature does not prevent him from employing considerable force against enemies threatening his followers. His preferred methods nevertheless emphasise observation, warning, and the prevention of unnecessary conflict. Skerrit's presence is most clearly demonstrated through the protection of centaur communities and the preservation of the natural relationships upon which they depend. --- ### **Conclusion** Skerrit the Forester is the patron deity of centaurs and a guardian of the natural balance, whose divine responsibilities encompass woodland communities, hunting, and the relationships sustaining life within the wilderness. His influence is particularly strong among centaurs and satyrs, whose religious traditions include full-moon dances, mock hunts, and communal celebrations. Although he possesses formidable martial abilities and powerful druidic magic, Skerrit generally prefers to prevent danger through observation, warning, and the protection of vulnerable communities. His divine realm, Skerrit's Glade, reflects these concerns through its peaceful woodland environment and the close-knit centaur communities inhabiting it. As a member of the Outer Circle of the Seelie Court, he maintains friendly relations with other sylvan powers while preserving the independence of his own realm. Skerrit's teachings recognise that the natural world depends upon the continued existence of both predators and prey, and that each creature possesses a place within the wider community of life. Through his priesthood, divine manifestations, and protection of the sylvan borders, the Forester remains an important guardian of centaurs and the woodland communities that acknowledge his authority.