Silver Fangs

Thirteen Wolves Turned White by Luna's Boon

From Gaia's Will Thirteen Garou Were Born

Thirteen Houses of Fangs Burst Forth

Each House Scattered Giving Tribes their shape

From this a Nation Born - An Ivory Priest

Introduction

Why shouldn't a wolf be associated with nobility? Behind every noble family one will find a wolf. The legend of Romulus and Remus being raised by a She-Wolf is symbolic in many ways. The legendary forefathers of Rome suckled from the teat of a wolf gaining strength and the wisdom of honing their instincts. The role the Silver Fang tribe has taken in shaping the human nobility is much the same. Within every noble family you will find the Silver Fangs and their kinfolk. In most cases the bloodline is mixed, with the Garou and kinfolk guiding the unknowing kin and human relations.

The role the Silver Fangs play in the Garou Nation is far more direct than the one it takes in shaping human leaders. Respected as the Leaders of the Garou Nation, they approach conflicts within through mediation and the implementation of the High Traditions in accordance with the Litany and Caern Politics. From an outsider's perspective the tribe stands united and strong under the banner of the Falcon totem; however, the truth itself - as it so often is with many other things, is far more complex behind the scenes.

Origins

There are many creation stories for the Silver Fangs; however, the one component on which they all agree is that their tribe came from the First Wolf. It is said in the Dawn Times before the existence of mankind, upon Gaia the animal lords tread. And during this time a great evil ensnared her. Many of the animal lords attempted to aid Gaia; but, failed either in battle or because of an unwillingness to enter into certain places. Wolf - the one treated as an outsider amongst the others, did not falter in his pursuit. Even in the lands of shadow where the dead dwelled, he continued - until he rescued her, triumphing over the evil. His time spent in the Deadlands marked his coat a beautiful white, giving unto him an aspect that was part spirit as well as animal. From Gaia he learned her secrets of life and death. And as time passed the one white wolf turned into thirteen, all of whom were gifted with the touch of Silver by Luna.

The First Wolf. The First Silver Fangs. And from those first thirteen sprang forth tribes as diverse as the lands they scattered and covered. Soon after came an entire Garou Nation, led by those with the blood of the First Wolf in their veins, marked as such by the white fur.

How then did this position of leadership come to pass? Why does it remain? There are some Silver Fangs who would attribute this to the lineage from the earliest wolves in existence. A majority of Garou associate the leadership with Falcon's Brood. But a Silver Fang Philodox educated in the ways of The Silver Record knows that it was Luna who first granted the Silver Fangs the right of leadership and that it was not until later that Falcon, one of Helios' brood, became the tribal totem. And while only the eldest Half Moons know how or why this came to be, none but the theurges understand the impact this had on the tribe and the way it functions come the year of 1211.

Geography

The birthplace of the Silver Fang tribe is generally considered to be the lands of Kievan and Novgorod Rus; however, by the year of 1211 the tribe is organized by 'Houses' of Silver Fangs who rule over particular regions. Each House has varying functions with regards to the regions; whereas some Houses have more 'tribal wide' responsibilities.

The Houses pertaining to the Geographical areas of England, Scotland, Ireland, and Cymru are the Houses of Austere Howl and Winter Snow. Presently Winter Snow has more political clout and power and is considered to be the dominant Silver Fang House in the area.

The Iberian Peninsula and lands near it are home to House Unbreakable Hearth. Typically, because of their location, Silver Fangs of this House serve as the Ambassadors for Silver Fangs to the West of them to the lands of the Garou Nation in the mainland. Some of their territory extends into to the lands into southern France.

The Holy Roman Empire and territory reaching into Italy are seen to by House Gleaming Eye. This House of Silver Fangs focuses on monitoring the region for corruption and has done such since the fall of Rome. In recent centuries, particularly with the loss of the White Howlers and the impact such as had on the House of Austere Howl, Gleaming Eye has taken on the role of monitoring its own tribe for corruption.

The lands of Kievan Rus and Novgorod Rus, while further away than that of the Byzantine Empire - are known to Silver Fangs as the birthplace of the tribe. It is in these lands that one will find the oldest House of Silver Fangs: House Crescent Moon.

Tribal Totems

The Silver Fang tribal totems are for the most part exclusively of Falcon's Brood. With the exception of Theurges of the Moon Lodge (See Typical Auspice Roles), most Silver Fangs follow Falcon or his Brood in good loyalty and faith. Other exceptions, while not unheard of, are rare. Falcon himself is a totem of respect and under Helios' banner of spirits; however, his brood takes on many forms, listed below.

Aspect of Respect:

• Merlin
• Osprey

Aspect of War:

• Buzzard
• Eagle
• Wyvern (Presently The Sept Totem) - Wyvern's dragon-like features may give it the appearance of something wyrmish to the ignorant; however, it is one of the most powerful Umbrood spirits to invoke when facing the Wyrm. A herald of War, Wyvern is both a protector of Gaia's sacred places and a General who commands a swift and timely destruction of the Wyrm's forces.

Aspect of Wisdom:

• Harrier
• Heron
• Peregrine Falcon

Aspect of Cunning:

• Hawk

Typical Auspice Roles

Ragabash

At first glance the New Moon Garou may seem to have a difficult time of it within the tribe. The Silver Fang tribe is steeped in tradition; however, the Ragabash still manage to raise questions that inspire change and new beliefs. However this is not the sole role the auspice plays within the tribe. The most skilled of Ragabashes are assassins and thieves often used to relieve others of dangerous items or influence before major conflict that might adversely affect the tribe as a whole emerges.

Theurge

The Theurges of the Silver Fang tribe are tasked with a responsibility greater than other tribes will ever really understand. Initially, when Luna was Patron to the Silver Fangs and gave them the right to leadership, she did so with a very specific stipulation. The Garou in charge could only hold authority for seven years or else his mind would become unstable and inconstant as the very moon. As mankind took more of a role in the world and the Silver Fangs recognized the importance of having influence over such to guide the building of civilizations and protect Garou ways, they realized that seven years was a very short amount of time. And it was then that Falcon, one of Helios’ Brood, promised the level of control and length which they craved. The Silver Fangs betrayed Luna, shifting their tribal allegiance to a child of her brother’s brood. And in return what was once meant to be an after affecting of ruling too long was forever ingrained upon the tribe: mental instability such as the ever changing moon.

There were theurges within the tribe who did not support the decision to stray away from Luna’s grace. And for that reason two lodges of spiritual worship were established within the tribe: The Lodge of the Sun and the Lodge of the Moon. Each lodge is headed by an Athro or Elder theurge, referred to as Shaman. These Lodges now maintain the spiritual balance of the tribe so that Luna might be appeased while Helios himself is not scorned, lest the tribe fall into complete insanity.

Theurges associated with the Sun Lodge are less concerned with the affairs of spirits and more concerned with leadership in human domains. They are marked by methods of the Unconquerable Sun: Reason, Logic, and Order. Theurges of this Lodge are often referred to as ‘Theurges of Combat’ as a result of their more martial studies. Theurges of the Moon Lodge are by contrast less concerned with the material world and more in tune with the realm of the spirit, monitoring the spiritual well-being of their tribe. Intuition and insight are characteristics of members of this lodge, and while homid members abound, most of the lupus theurges choose this Lodge to follow, the Lodges are not strictly auspice-based and Silver Fang kings and kinfolk nobles have membership, with their style of leadership molded by the Lodge from which they stem; however, the responsibilities of ritual, the secret of Kingship, and the matter of the spiritual conflict *within the tribe* is handled and guarded carefully, secretly, by the theurges themselves.

Philodox

When it comes to a matter of relations with other septs, Silver Fangs first typically send their half moons on diplomatic matters. The Philodoxes of the Silver Fang tribe, often charged with assisting in looking after their human kin and matters in noble courts and families, provide the voice of reason. When concerns or rumors are first raised, typically the Half Moon travels to the area of problem in question - to adjudicate and ascertain fact from fiction. Matters of diplomacy are largely held by this auspice as that is their calling. As being a half moon of any Sept requires speaking with young and older Garou alike, the half moon of the Silver Fangs are expected to be able to speak with any of the tribes that are still under Gaia, and adhere to the litany in doing so. Upholding the Concord and the Litany is part of the Half Moon's responsibility in the Silver Fang tribe. The pressure this tribe places on the shoulders of the Half Moon is significant, as they must be capable of oration on matters of not only Garou Law (includign matters of the Concord), but of Tribal Law and History as well.

Galliard

Silver Fangs of the Gibbous Moon do not typically fall into the role of the 'bard'. That is but a stereotype. All Galliards are expected to memorize and tell stories of significant events as relayed to them, not only for the purpose of passing on the history of Garou to future generations; but, for the purpose of stories of renown within Septs and their tribes as a whole. Galliards must make sure that the right lesson is imparted to those to whom a story told, which can be a tricky process. When it comes to Silver Fang Galliards however, stories with regards to a tribal perspective are almost always told from tribal roots. Silver Fang heroes and Kings, kinfolk and Garou alike are touted. Inspiring others of tales of heroes is one thing; but, Silver Fangs will always endeavor to inspire with tales of Silver Fang heroes, as they set the bar a bit higher than most.* *Encouraging others to adhere to a higher standard with their stories is something to which Galliards of the Silver Fang tribe are more especially prone.

Ahroun

The typical stereotype of a full moon is that of a warrior, who fights readily and at every turn. But among the Silver Fangs, Ahrouns are expected to be masters of their rage and know when is best to make use of it. The phrase Spirit Warrior – a Garou who fights for a higher cause and abides by the laws that bind them, is very much applied to the Full Moons of this tribe. Typically Full Moons and Theurges lead the tribe in packs and Septs. But responsibilities other than 'fighting' rest upon the shoulders of the Ahrouns of this tribe. As the Ragabashes of the tribe encourage the tribe to question their traditions in ways that establish new traditions while maintaining the rich heritage, the Ahrouns focus on setting the bar for the tribe as a whole. Sometimes this leads to conflict between the older Garou whom have established ways and methods of doing things, and the young Ahrouns who bring about change, inspired by those around them and their experiences. What traditions to adhere to, which to cast aside, and what relations to maintain when building allies often change with the passing of the torch from one Ahroun to the next. Inspiring. Leading War. Mastering Tactics. As Silver Fangs aspire for excellence in all things, an Ahroun can do no less.

Opinions

Tribal Perspective On The Litany

Garou Shall Not Mate With Garou: When Garou mate with other Garou, the offspring that is created is a Metis. Born in crinos, they are sterile and represent the potential for breeding ourselves out of existence. Most metis are killed immediately upon birth in our tribe. The very few that live are often kept away from human society for their deformities, whether mental or physical, make them a danger to others and to themselves. More often than not we put them down so that they do not become a danger to a Sept.

Combat the Wyrm Wherever It Dwells and Whenever It Breeds: We are the leaders of Garou. It is important that we are decisive in our battles against the Wyrm and strike fear into the hearts and spirits of its minions. We do not suffer minions of the wyrm nor do we tolerate those who would knowingly and willingly ally themselves with the wyrm. It is our goal to make sure that the thing which they fear most is our visage, surrounded by the lambent flame of Falcon and Helios, ripping their still-beating hearts from their chest.

Respect the Territory of Another: This particular portion of the Litany is a strange one – as all Garou territories are essentially ours. We govern and lead the Garou. However for the sake of relations and avoiding wars between Septs we allow other tribes to claim otherwise for specific areas of land. We respect their claims and treat them accordingly; but ultimately, claim sovereignty over all.

Accept an Honorable Surrender: Numbers among the Garou are not so great that we will kill those under Gaia in combat over a perceived slight. When it comes to laying siege to other Septs or the Cracking of the Bone, we accept honorable surrenders so as to further secure allies and numbers in combat. This applies to other Garou, and potentially the dwindling few other Shifters that have not allied themselves with the wyrm. When it comes to minions of the wyrm however, there is no honorable surrender to accept. There is only the merciful death to deliver so that they might return to Gaia and be reborn again.

Submit to those of Higher Station: Typically speaking? As the Silver Fangs are the tribe that govern the nation, we hold ourselves above other tribes and other ranks. However, although a Cliath of our Tribe is equal in our own eyes to an Adren of most other tribes, it is wise to adhere to the advice of Athros and Elders of other tribes – for their life experiences have much wisdom to which they impart.

Because Cliaths cannot challenge Athros and Elders (no honorable challenge can be done when there is more than two ranks between the two involved), it is better to submit and challenge on a different matter once that gap is breached. Sept Harmony and maintaining it is an important part of being a leader as well. Our younger Cliaths would do well to remember that.

The First Share of the Kill for the Greatest in Station: To this day most tribes grant us this right. Silver Fangs are given the same rights as those two ranks above them in many cases; however, in Septs where there is little tribal influence it is better to err on the side of caution and see to it that those of highest rank are given something first. We wish to be seen as generous and not presumptuous.

You Shall Not Eat the Flesh of Humans: Regardless of tribe – we enforce this part of the litany at all times. It is a responsibility we – as those who were responsible for working with the spirits in the establishment of the Concord – must uphold. Although it was not added until after the Impergium, the enforcing of this makes sure that we protect the humans we lead as well as protect ourselves from any reprisals and veil-breaches.

Respect Those Beneath You – All Are of Gaia: The Silver Fangs were the first tribe. This – to a certain extent – makes other tribes akin to children to us. It is important that we treat them with respect accordingly, even when they are being belligerent. It is our goal to inspire them and guide them – not to beat them into the ground for being a part of another tribe.

The Veil Shall Not Be Lifted: It is important that we do not reveal ourselves to humankind – for witch hunts from townsfolk and church alike can lead to attacks on our lands and worse yet – the slaying of our lupine kin.

For some in our tribe however this extends far beyond just humans. Just because one of our tribe may have an ally in a mage, does not mean that said Garou should go and reveal all other Garou in the area to their ally. That is information which could prove to be a weapon in the wrong hands. Tread carefully. Not all otherworldly creatures are the same. Our culture and ways are things that we must protect.

Do Not Suffer Your People to Tend Your Sickness: Some speak of mental instability in our tribe. Not all in our tribe practice inbreeding – but all are afflicted through some mystic means or another. That mental instability does not make us a hindrance or threat to our people however. When one can no longer fight because one is ill beyond the help of any healer, when one is so far into the depths of harano that they can no longer access their rage to shift, then one is not fit to live. Do not make yourself into a hindrance for others. If you cannot die on a field of battle, go off and seek the Winter Wolf and let him take you – before you bring death and harm to those around you.

The Leader May be Challenged at Any Time During Peace: This is applicable in Septs. This is applicable in other tribes. We even allow Silver Fangs to challenge other Silver Fangs. We will not tolerate the attempt to challenge Silver Fangs as the rightful leaders of the Garou Nation for that was something ordained by Luna and Helios and written into the fabric of the Concord.

The Leader May Not Be Challenged During Wartime: A successful campaign in battle requires stability. Stability requires one leader supported by those whom he has appointed accordingly. If leadership is challenged by unrest, then victory is not assured. It is important to commit one's self fully to the endeavor. Support your leaders. Respect them. Disagreements may be saved for after the battle is won.

You Shall Take No Action That Causes a Caern to be Violated: There are too few of Gaia's Sacred places left to be allowed to fall into the hands of the wyrm. Our tribe keeps careful watch over the Septs within our territories in order to make sure that those elements do not filter into the community. This goes beyond 'Not Lifting the Veil'. Do not let our enemies know where it is. Do not let our allies know where it is. Those who already know and would use it to their advantage must be dealt with swiftly.

If it is deemed that members of a Sept are consorting with elements that place that Sept at risk? We act decisively and take the Sept from them. Protecting Gaia's Sacred places means protecting it from the wyrm that exists not only within the Fallen, but from the corruption of other tribes as well.

Tribal Perspective On Other Tribes

Black Furies: “The Furies are both honorable and ferocious. They sometimes chafe under our guidance; but, they recognize the wisdom of our rule” (Dark Ages: Werewolf). Expanded: The Black Furies are protectors of women and of the Wyld. They are familiar with rituals the likes of which fascinate even the most learned of Ivory Priests. At times they place their duties to women and Wyld over other duties; but, they are loyal – especially to those whom have proven themselves.

Bone Gnawers: “It is natural that this lowly tribe resents our grace and power. Speak nicely to them in public, but don't invite them home.” Expanded: Bone Gnawers seem to delight in being the very *least* of what Garou have to offer. In packs they adhere to hierarchy; but, in a way that is more like dog than wolf. They are proof that even the least cultured can aspire to exist by adhering to the bare minimum of what it means to be Garou. Their lessons are often imparted in a way that is reminiscent of a Ragabash; but, do not be mistaken by their playful antics. Dumb though many may be, they have access to parts of the world and activities which make them valuable as eyes and ears in the places that we cannot reach.

Children of Gaia: “Good intentions do not always lead to good ends. Still it is hard to fault this tribe for the desire for peace. Listen to them, but only with one ear.” Expanded: We are creatures of Rage. It is important to master this Rage and not let it lead us into meaningless squabbles that undermine our efforts in protecting Gaia's Sacred places. There are some Children of Gaia who would have us use Peace in all things, and undermine the very purpose for which we were created: Battle. Having one for counsel is one thing. Letting their tribal perspective muddle your connection to your Rage is another.

Fenrir: “These warriors number themselves among the few who can match us in battle. They are honorable and strong, and it is a wise ruler indeed who cultivates the Fenrir as soldiers and allies.” Expanded: Throughout history – when our tribe has waged war against our enemies, the Fenrir have often been allies. They understand honor and in the Holy Roman Empire and in the Motherlands we have exchanged kinfolk for the purpose of keeping our bloodlines strong.

Fianna: “We can understand the higher virtues of this tribe in a way that few other tribes can. Their songs sooth our troubles and ease our cares, and for that we are grateful. Still, anyone with such an eloquent tongue is potentially dangerous.” Expanded: The Fianna inspire – sometimes to dangerous heights. Their legendary connections to the fae make them useful as both allies and liaisons to things of that nature. Once they devote themselves to a cause, they do so thoroughly. But devotion and committal are two entirely different things. Their fondness of drink and inability to control the whole of their emotions is what prevents them from following through to the very end. A shame. They are most capable allies when directed and guided.

Red Talons: “Are their prophecies true, or are they some misguided attempt to cause chaos among us? Perhaps the other tribes are right about these Garou.” Expanded: Their hatred of humans and anything remotely encroaching upon their lands places homid kin in danger; however, the Red Talons have long been the Prophets of the Garou Nation – second only to those marked by the Firebird in the Ivory Priesthood. We have sent others to document their visions – but their hidebound ways make interpreting the visions a challenge. Which are real? Which are folly?

Shadow Lords: “The Lords slip from shadow to shadow and make noise about overthrowing us, but they simply aren't a match for us. Watch them carefully, but don't give them more credit than they deserve.” Expanded: Behind every Silver Fang there is a Shadow Lord with a knife to his or her back. In older times, Shadow Lords would swear fealty to a Silver Fang they could follow and position themselves in such a way so as to keep them honest and true to their values. In return, we would use our Storm-Riding allies to take care of the things to which ourselves could on longer be connected. This remains true today; however, there are a few among their tribe who believe it is time to 'overthrow' us and usurp the law of Order among the nation as it was passed to us from Luna and Helios. This number is small in comparison to those who hold the old ways, and those who speak otherwise are merely rabble and unimportant in the scheme of things. In the lands of the Holy Roman Empire and in the Motherlands of Kievan Rus and Novgorod Rus – our tribe still breeds with the Shadow Lords, creating fierce warriors with noble blood and a cunning unmatched. This is a practice that is less common in Ireland, Cymru, Scotland, and England however – due to inbreeding in these countries.

Silent Striders: “Pity the Striders, who have lost their homelands. Perhaps it is time for a Crusade?” Expanded: Their lack of a homeland and wanderlust make Silent Striders perfect for carrying news from Sept to Sept. Rumors, Gossip, and Tales of Battle going on elsewhere come on their tongues; however, few can stay in one place long enough to hold a position within a Sept. Because of this, entrusting them with a Sept position is a potentially dangerous gambit; but, they can be counted upon for counsel.

Warders Of Man: “The Warders of Men are valuable for their understanding and knowledge of foreign things. They are also dangerous for the very same reason.” Expanded: Whereas the Red Talons would rather kill humans (and our homid kin if allowed), the Warders of Men tend to the cities. They infiltrate places and things from which we would rather maintain a distance – including the Church. Their information allows us to continue existing – protected by the Veil; but, sometimes their involvement takes them too far from a Sept for comfort. Which do they value more? Humans? Or their own kind? Be mindful and observe them for the answer.

Tribal Perspectives

Fera: Those that remain have their own purpose under Gaia to fulfill. Their numbers are so few however that there is little interaction with them – and when there is it is best to be careful and guarded. Many still carry scars from the War that they lost. Those with whom we most often interact are Corax. While we do not rely upon them for messages and information, they may be called upon to do such – if they have already offered their servces.

Humans: Humans are both our greatest allies and our greatest enemies. We have cultivated leadership within their ranks to guide the shaping of the world and the civilizations within it. Within the major noble families of varied cultures you will find us and our kin, bloodlines shared. They are to be nurtured and molded so that they too can aspire to great things; but, they must also be monitored – for ignorant as they are, they do not recognize the wyrm when they see it.

Vampires: Vampires are servants of the wyrm. There are those who may not yet be marked by the wyrm's taint; but, it is only a matter of time before they fall and for that reason they are not to be trusted. It is preferable to kill them outright; but, in situations where this is not possible – do not trust them. Avoid making deals with them. Meet them only if you must, and act decisively when they become a threat.

Mages: Though a potential danger to Caerns, there are mages who share a close bond with the spirits with whom we can ally when necessary. Those witches and spirit-talkers are approachable. Others should be avoided. None should be allowed near our sacred spaces.

Restless (Wraiths): These are mere shadows of people that used to exist. They are neither ancestor spirit nor are they spirits of the Concord. The Restless Dead are those who exist as aberrations of the cycle. They exist outside of it and cannot and should not be trusted. At most, we should pray for their passing and return to the cycle. Avoid entanglements – especially with those whom may have once been kin or Garou. If they exist as restless? They did something *wrong*.

Fae: It is best to allow the Fianna to serve as the liaisons to the Fae when they come to visit. While there have been times when our leaders have met with theirs, and have come to an accord as nobles often do, the Fianna are our link to them and understand best how to maintain ties. Avoid offending them and offer them hospitality so long as they do not pose a threat to our sacred places.

Other Resources

Dark Ages: Werewolf

Litany of the Tribes: Volume 4

Tribebook: Silver Fangs (Revised)

Book of Auspices