A feral’s affinity for Nature runs deep. Sometimes, that affinity returns his affection. Similar to the Retainer Merit, Animal Companion reflects a single beast who loyally follows your character. This creature could be your breed-kin, but she doesn’t have to be. It’s possible she’s an old pet or new partner who’s not spooked by the beast-blood’s changing skin.

To purchase the Merit, you must decide the backstory between your feral and his friend. Does their bond predate the First Change? If so, how old is the animal now, and how did their affinity survive her “master’s” new life? Is this a new companion, and if so, how did the normal animal bond with the shapechanging beast? Whatever their tale might be, this companion is smart, useful and independent. A rat in a cage or a dog in the yard isn’t a Merit — she’s a pet.

The dots in this Merit reflect the animal’s power, intellect and often size. The higher the trait, the more capable the companion. A one-dot beast could be a smart rat or clever bird, a two-dot Merit might reflect a loyal (if finicky) cat, three points could buy a common-looking but brilliant companion such as Lassie or Trigger; at the top of the scale, the companion stands out in any setting — a tiger, bear, dolphin or chimpanzee whose physical and mental capacity would be impressive even if she weren’t devoted to her apparent “master.”

Unless the Animal Companion is driven off by poor treatment or otherwise killed, she remains a loyal element in the character’s life. She will do whatever she can to assist him, and regard him with the ultimate affection. The details, naturally, depend on her species — a devoted cat or loyal snake won’t show devotion the way a dog might. Still, unless that bond is severed by death or abuse, the Animal Companion is yours for life. (If this “Merit” is killed off, all points regarding her are lost.)

Drawback: Unlike the Retainer Merit, an Animal Companion is just that: an animal. She won’t have free access to Man’s world, and remains limited by manual dexterity, mental perspective and social rules. Lassie may be a great dog, but she still can’t drive to the bank and cash a check.

Powerful animals are often exotic, too, and they stand out on a city street. Most places have laws against horses in public, and almost all human societies regulate private “ownership” of tigers, bears and so forth. The beast may spook other animals, and will probably follow her instincts if prey happens to be nearby. Loyal as she might be, this friend retains her bestial habits and needs; she might trash an office, eat a garden or throw feces at the cops if that’s what seems natural. Your feral might adore his companion, but a smart, powerful animal remains a high-maintenance friend.