[OctaviusHunter]

interesting that you bring in native american shamanism. that's what will be experiencing next. It will be the wise woman that trains him along with several others in regards to controlling the lycanthropy and using it. I was thinking directly along the lines of the shamanic shapeshifting but you've definately helped explain it abit better for me.

I agree with you regarding some of hamiltons use of the lycanthrope. her earlier works are much better, but I also take into consideration that she is not writing horror she is writing alternate history and using monsters as part of the medium.

on a more philosophical note, the were cougar also represents an inner conflict that my protaganist continually is struggling with. He is torn between revenge, and aggression on one hand and humility, peace, and forgiveness on the other. The cougar is that part of him that revels in the stalking, and silent killing of prey -- aggression and revenge.

I"m having alot of fun figuring this all out as I write it and thanks for all the help.