Erato
Erato is the god of love, but more precisely he is the god of courtship. His priests counsel lovers and protect those accused of committing crimes in the name of love (which is permissible by his tenants, as long as the act is truly out of love... murder and rape are acts of violence and do not qualify). Erato is also a god of courtesans, though worship does not focus on the physical aspects of love. Homosexuality is actively supported by the clergy, wrongly suggesting that Erato is interested solely in sexual pleasure. Erato's greatest enemy is Cardena, goddess of lust, and his priests are commanded to root out and destroy any nests of Cardena that they can find. Other than their almost unreasoning hatred of the worship of Cardena, Eratan priests are incredibly open-minded and are often called upon to assist in negotiations between vastly differing cultures. As the god of enchantment, Erato encourages the responsible use of Enchantment spells, particularly the Charm spells.
Servants
Religious Practices
Calendar
Saint Michael's Day (Michaelmas)
Sheldsmet 28
Observed by: Commonplace
Saint Michael's Day (also known as Michaelmas) is a holy day to Erato honoring Saint Michael the Archer. In most areas, husbands and wives exchange flowers, paramours write poems for their intended and even children give little heart-shaped wreaths to one another. In regions where Erato is particularly honored, there are archery competitions throughout the day, with the victor being proclaimed "Lord of Love" and (if he is unwed) granted free visits to the a brothel dedicated to Erato for the following week. The day is also marked with a mass at noon, where the local priest entreats those harboring a secret love to reveal that love to the object of their affection.
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