Ynsertu The Predator

Major Goddess of the Wild

Physical description:

Due to Ynsertu's shape-shifting nature, there are many possible depictions of the goddess. The most common by far is an image of a slender female often with elvish features. She is normally bent over or crouched down as though stalking prey. Her eyes are of particular importance, they are bright and piercing and when statues are made of Ynsertu the eyes are normally made from precious stones. The slender woman is often naked or only slightly dressed and camouflaged by leaves and dirt. In all depictions Ynsertu is shown with large claws or talons.

Teachings:

The teachings of Ynsertu model that of the wild animal - "Live with nature, not against it." Often followers of Ynsertu take this philosophy to extreme levels, violently striking out against those who would damage the natural balance of the wild.
There are no solid temples dedicated to Ynsertu in towns or cities, instead followers travel to sacred groves in wilderness areas to leave offerings for the Predator.

Followers:

Followers of Ynsertu tend most often to be folks who must already live closely with nature - thevast majority of hunters and woodsmen follow the teaching of Ynsertu in one way or another. Other followers include clerics and naturalists who admire the wonderful natural creations of Ynsertu.

Symbol:

As no permanent temples are ever built in Ynsertu's honor it is hard to pick one particular image to represent the goddess, however, followers of the predator are often branded with a mark in the shape of a leaf to show their allegiance to the wild.
The eyes of Ynsertu are not so much a symbol but are recognized by all men, be they followers or not.

Avatar:

As Ynsertu has the ability to control the minds of simple wild animals it could be said that at any point there could be hundreds of creatures working as avatars for the goddess. However when a special case presents itself Ynsertu has been known to grant the power of lycanthropy to one of her devout followers, turning this follower into a powerful creature similar to that of the werewolves of legend. It has been known for groups of these creatures to brutally murder hunters and loggers who have been taking more than their fair share of the wild's treasures.