Eremis and Eris
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.
Followers of Eremis are expect to donate no less than nine percent of every thieving 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 Erisians 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 tradesmen. A craftsman bearing an Erisian coin is automatically regarded as reliable and competent.
As philosophers and poets, Erisians are much more mystical and given to esoterics than Eremisians. The groups of followers mingle quite a bit, however, in spite of their different livelihoods. It is not unusual to find a table of thieves, poets, and philosophers at the Green Man Tavern in Old Tarantia.
Nemedian children are 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.
Aphorisms of Eremis
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.
Eight fingers is not better than no thumbs.
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.
Money is important but deeds are remembered. Who wants to be the wealthiest corpse in the cemetary?
There are no honorable bargains.