Hircines

Hircines are a fictional species from the Elder Scrolls video game series. They are depicted as primal, savage beings deeply connected to the wilderness and the hunt. Often associated with lycanthropy, Hircines are seen as the father of all werewolves and other lycanthropes. They are a Daedric Prince, a powerful immortal entity within the Elder Scrolls cosmology, and rule over a plane of Oblivion known as the Hunting Grounds.

The appearance of Hircines varies, but they are typically described as large, wolf-like humanoids with glowing red eyes and immense strength. Their nature is predatory and unforgiving. They embody the wild, untamed aspects of nature and are often seen as embodying the natural order of predator and prey. While not inherently evil in the mortal sense, their motivations are alien to most beings, revolving around the thrill of the chase and the perfection of the hunt.

Hircines have a significant impact on the mortal plane, particularly through their influence on lycanthropy. They can bestow the curse of lycanthropy upon mortals, turning them into powerful beast-men. These cursed individuals often revere Hircine as their patron. The Hunting Grounds are a reflection of Hircine's personality, a vast and dangerous wilderness filled with prey and hunters. Those who enter this realm often find themselves unwilling participants in Hircine's eternal hunt. Worship of Hircine is generally found among barbarians, hunters, and lycanthropes.