By Robert Herman (hermanr@ccds.cincinnati.oh.us)
System: This Gift is always active! When any statement, spoken or written, is directed at the Garou (it may be directed at others as well -- but the Garou has to be specifically included), he will instinctively and unerringly know if it is true or a lie. He may also, sometimes, get an "indeterminate" result -- for instance, if the speaker is unsure of himself, or is simply repeating a message and doesn't know if it is true or not. The statement has to be meant to be believed -- jokes and silly anecdotes, for instance, will not show up as lies.
The Garou himself, however, becomes incapable of lying. The way this manifests depends on the character. Examples include: The idea of lying simply never enters the character's mind; the character falls silent; the character inadvertently speaks the literal truth; the character simply cannot finish his sentence (a la Liar Liar) -- there are other options, of course. Just as fictional stories related to him do not count as lies, the Garou is still free to make up stories, as long as he's not trying to convince anyone they're true.
The Gift only applies to the literal truth. Both the Garou and those he listens to are free to tell half-truths, equivocate, or mislead, so long as what they say is literally true. Of course a simple "Are you trying to mislead me?" question, while it may draw suspicion, will clear up any doubt.
If the Garou wishes to temporarily be able to lie -- wants a "break" from the Gift -- he must make this decision under the waning Philodox moon (third quarter). At this time, the truth-detection part of the Gift will not be operative, but the Garou will still be unable to lie. Further, the Truth of Gaia gift will not function either! In one week -- under the new moon -- the Gift will become fully "switched off". The Garou is again free to use Truth of Gaia, if he has it. The gift may be "switched on" again at any time (it takes one minute), even during the time between the third quarter and new moons (the Garou will have to wait until the next third quarter moon to try to switch off the Gift again).
The Gift may also be completely given up at any time. This must be done under the Garou's own will. This will probably result in a loss of Wisdom and Honor, except in the most exceptional circumstances, and no spirit will teach the Garou this Gift again.
This gift is taught by a Falcon spirit or an avatar of Gaia.