This is a shrine to Hermes: protector of travellers, god of liminal spaces and boundaries, opener of ways. Other travellers have left their offerings in front of his statue: coins, strawberries, dice, even a few cups holding wine or caffeinated beverages.
There is a brazier full of glowing coals and a bowl holding a small mound of yellow frankincense pellets. You sprinkle a pinch of frankincense onto the coals, feeling the heat rise. Almost immediately, the frankincense begins to melt and smoke, filling the air with a rich scent. You speak these words aloud:
"Hear me, Hermes, messenger of Zeus, son of Maia;
almighty is your heart, O lord of the deceased and judge of contests;
gentle and clever, O Argeiphontes, you are a guide
whose sandals fly, and a man-loving prophet to mortals.
You are vigorous and you delight in exercise and in deceit;
interpreter of all, you are a profiteer who frees us of cares
and who holds in his hands the blameless tool of peace.
Lord of Korykos, blessed, helpful and skilled in words,
you assist in work, you are a friend of mortals in need,
and you wield the dreaded and respected weapon of speech.
Hear my prayer and grant a good end to a life
of industry, gracious talk, and mindfulness."
--Orphic Hymn 28
Do you have a question for the Immortal Guide? The Hermes Traveller Oracle