Overview
Hermes is the god of travelers, merchants, thieves, gamblers, athletes, and eloquent speech. He also serves as a messenger for the gods, and an arbitrator of disputes. He committed his first theft when he was only one day old, stealing a herd of cattle from his half-brother Apollo. Although an accomplished thief almost from the moment of his birth, he has a keen sense of fairness such that the other Olympians often call upon him to resolve their disputes. Due to his great speed, appearing to move from place to place almost instantaneously, Hermes willingly serves as a messenger for the gods.
Description
Hermes appears as a handsome young man wearing a winged helm and sandals, and carrying a white caduceus (a winged rod entwined by two serpents).
Holy symbol
Hermes's symbol is a caduceus, a winged staff entwined by two serpents.
Favored weapon
Hermes wields a white staff (or rod) in battle. However, if Hermes has a chance to speak before combat begins, the fast-talking god has a chance of convincing his opponents not to attack him (treat as a charm spell).
Possessions
- Hermes possesses a white caduceus (a winged staff entwined by two serpents) that was given to him by his half-brother Apollo. It allows him to control animals and beasts.
- Hermes possesses a pair of winged sandals which allow him to fly.
- Hermes possesses a helm of invisibility that allows him to turn invisible at will.
Realm
Great Wheel cosmology
In the Great Wheel cosmology, Hermes resides within the planar realm of Olympus, which is located on Arvandor (also known as Olympus), the first layer of the Olympian Glades of Arborea. Hermes has hidden his realm within Mount Olympus itself, where it serves as an inviting and safe place for both gamblers and travelers. Although a visitor is likely to get their pocket picked, they will at least get a good nights rest.
Olympian cosmology
In the Olympian cosmology, Hermes resides within the outer planar realm of Olympus, a great mountain which stands at the center of the world. This mighty peak rises so high above the world, that its heights form a distinct planar realm. It serves as home to the majority of the Olympian deities, not including Hades, and each deity maintains their own personal domain within this realm.
Worship
Priests of Hermes must keep physically fit and be able to run long distances. They seldom sit still, and are often busy with something or travelling the world. They have a reputation for fair judgement, and as such often serve as professional arbiters or mediators. They are employed in a wide range of professions, including diplomats, judges, translators, moneychangers, surveyors and explorers.
Omens from Hermes include an unusually good or bad run of luck or a sudden gust of wind as he rushes past.
In Spelljammer
The inhabitants of Greatspace revere the gods and goddesses of the Greek pantheon, especially Zeus, meaning that Hermes can be considered a native deity.