Eremis and Eris

Eris, goddess of poets and philosophers.

Twin brother-sister trickster gods commonly found in Nemedian tales but also appearing in Aquilonian lore. Eremis represents thieves and pirates, while Eris is the goddess of philosophers and poets. The number nine is sacred to Eremis and his followers, while the number eleven is sacred and mystical to Erisians.

Nemedian children are traditionally entertained with many stories of Eremis and Eris, and though the gods are not widely worshiped their stories are among the most popular. Several of these tales involve shapeshifting and gender change as methods of fooling mortals and other gods.

Brythunians are known to openly venerate Eremis, pay homage to him and even keep shrines in their homes. But these function more as forms of protection from thieves and danger than as veneration of the deity.

There is no known veneration of Eris outside of Nemedia, though there is a small temple of Eris located near the Great Library of Tarantia. This structure dates to the construction of the original library and was one of the few original structures to remain intact after the earthquake of 1166. During the ban on all forms of worship other than Mitra, the Erisian temple functioned as a meeting hall for the masons guild. The temple returned to its original function after the All-Faiths Decree of 1291.

Common Practices

Followers of Eremis are expect to donate no less than nine percent of earnings (usually from each job) to their local temple. Pickpockets and other petty thieves are exempted from frequent tithing but are expected to visit at least weekly. The temple issues a coin of Eremis to each donor. The exact use of the coins is not known, but it has no value in the market.

The Temple of Eris provides a somewhat formal function to Nemedian academic society. The temples also issue coins but for different purposes. Erisian coins are solid gold, each stamped with a symbol indicated a field of study in which the bearer has expertise. These coins are regarded as a symbol of professionalism among many academics. A student or teacher bearing an Erisian coin is automatically regarded as reliable and competent. Note that this practice is unrecognized outside Nemedia.

Erisians of Nemedia also govern the dispensation of the Magisters Chain, an elite guild of sages versed in a wide variety of skills. These individuals have devoted their lives from childhood to intense study and are often found in the service of nobility throughout Hyboria. Nemedian Magisters have in the past served even the kings of Khitai. They wear chains about their necks as a symbol of their study and service, with each link forged of a different metal to symbolize mastery of a particular field of study.

Aphorisms of Eremis

Eremis, god of thieves.

A fool and his money are quickly parted. Don't be on the wrong end of that proposition.

Beware of whores who say they don't want money.

Once you have their money, never give it back.

Eight fingers is not better than no thumbs.

You can't steal if you're dead.

It is better to rob a wealthy man that allow him to suffer gluttony.

If you're doing business with a Mitraist, get everything in writing. His word isn't worth pig excrement with Mitra on his side.

What is given cannot be taken. What is taken must not be given.

Do not offer sympathy to the mentally ill.

Keep your lies consistent.

Never cheat a Cimmerian... unless you can get away with it.

Money is important but deeds are remembered. Who wants to be the wealthiest corpse in the cemetery?

There are no honorable bargains.

Anything stolen is pure profit.