Hecate

The goddess of magic and wizardry. Some philosophers claim that a wizard in reality is a priest of Hecate, but while there is some truth to this, it is not the whole truth. It is correct as far as the Kartrians only grudgingly give other gods respect, as one might expect it from a priest. It is also true as far as a wizard and a priest weave their spells in a similar manner, at least on the surface, through invocations and gestures. But even here there is a difference. Ogma may be the god of bards, and Hefaistos the god of smiths, but it is the bard singing, and the smith forging. Similarly, it is the wizard that summons the magical energies, and you cannot become a priest of Hecate without being a competent wizard, it is not the other way around. Hecate is not easily understood, or pleased. She demands much from Her worshipers and refuses to help them escape situations they could have avoided by thinking ahead. For Her priesthood, this makes perfect sense. No one can say Hecate is not generous, for She has made it possible for all to wield magic if they really want to. One must note, they add, that it is not necessary to worship Hecate to be a magic-user. But if you abuse the gift, then expect no mercy. Hecate is most strongly represented on Kartria, where She is the greatest deity. The greater part of the priesthood is women, as it attracts women as the only opportunity to wield magic, and the really talented men go elsewhere. Outside Kartria the temples are often hidden or secluded, to keep away those without merit. Usually the temple address is merely a secret, but in some places its presence is clouded by magic. A worthy worshiper should be able to find the temple.
Holy day: October 30th in Balvine. Symbol: Black cat, hand with two pointed fingers, book with an À (aleph) on it, pentagram.