Skerrit

In the Dungeons & Dragons role-playing game, Skerrit is the deity worshipped by the centaur race. Skerrit is also known as the "Forester." His symbol is an oak growing from an acorn.

Publication history

James M. Ward created Skerrit for Deities and Demigods (1980).^[1]

Skerrit was detailed in the book Monster Mythology (1992), including details about his priesthood.^[2] His role in the cosmology of the Planescape campaign setting was described in On Hallowed Ground (1996).^[3] Skerrit is described as one of the good deities that celestials can serve in the supplement Warriors of Heaven (1999).^[4]

Skerrit was described briefly in Defenders of the Faith (2000).^[5] His priesthood is detailed for 3rd edition in Complete Divine (2004).^[6]

Description

Skerrit may appear as any creature of the forest. Sometimes his spirit will temporarily possess various plants and animals in order to do his will. Centaurs often portray him as a perfect member of their own race; satyrs and sylvan elves presumedly do the same. In his centaur form, Skerrit wields a bow and a spear. When he is in the forest, the branches and leaves of the trees move to impede his foes' attacks.

Relationships

Skerrit is a member of Titania's Seelie Court. He is part of the Outer Circle of the Seelie Court, which also includes Caoimhin, Emmantiensien, Fionnghuala, and Nathair Sgiathach. There is no friction between the sylvan elves who worship Skerrit and those who worship Rillifane Rallathil, who considers Skerrit to be a close friend. Skerrit is allied with Corellon Larethian.

Realm

Skerrit's Glade is located on the Outer Plane of the Beastlands, near Ehlonna's Grove of the Unicorns. Though he is probably the best known member of Titania's Seelie Court, he prefers to maintain his own realm separately.

Dogma

Skerrit represents Nature's great guiding hand, keeping the Balance between all things. He maintains the forest so that all within it may serve their proper roles. For hunters, he provides prey; for the hunted, he provides bountiful flora.

Worshippers

Skerrit is worshipped mainly by centaurs and satyrs, and by those sylvan elves who are more neutral in alignment.

Clergy

Skerrit's clerics wear tan leafy vests. They are leaders of their bands and pass on their role from parent to child. They protect hunters, determine migration routes, and officiate at the sacred dances and mock hunts.

Temples

Skerrit's temples are simply large groves in which bands of worshippers assemble.

Rituals

Ritual hunts and dances are held to honor Skerrit.

Every month on the nights of the full moon, up to a dozen bands of satyrs may come together, telling stories of Skerrit's hunting exploits, followed by mock hunts and wrestling contests held around the fire. The winner receives the title of "Hunter" which lasts until the next full moon, during which time they get the choice food and are honored by the band leader's bodyguards. A huge feast finishes the ceremony and the bands disperse before dawn.

Holy days

Skerrit is worshipped during the nights of the full moons.

References

Additional reading

• Conforti, Steven, ed. Living Greyhawk Official Listing of Deities for Use in the Campaign, version 2.0. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2005. Available online:

• Menzies, Gordon R. "The Ecology of the Satyr." Dragon #155 (TSR, 1990). Summarized online