Reverent Hunter

Most mortals tend to have a mistaken view of Nylea, based on her dual position as the god of the hunt, and keeper of the world's natural balance. Some falsely believe that, as the god of the hunt, Nylea protects all mortal hunters and allows them to take and kill as they please. Others think that Nylea's title implies she is the only true hunter, and to keep the natural order, all others who take from nature's bounty will meet her punishment. In fact, Nylea takes neither position-her true aspect sits somewhere between the two extremes.   Nylea acknowledges that hunters, even mortal ones, are an important part of preserving the wilds of Theros. Humans, despite some of their actions of the contrary, are just as much a natural part of Theros as any animal. Hunters who can see beyond their own selfishness, and accept the part they are meant to play, are quick to earn Nylea's favor.   Friends to Forests Even without true dedication to Nylea herself, a hunter with the proper respect for the natural order is likely to earn the god's blessing. Such individuals soon find that prey crosses their paths more often, the quarry they seek is more likely to blunder and leave easily identified tracks and that arrows fired from their bows move faster and strike harder. Even without fully respecting Nylea's own power, respecting the raw power of nature can be well worth it.   Perhaps the greatest benefit to working with Nylea, rather than against her, are the simple magic tricks that come more easily. Even the simplest woodsmen, without any prior learning, suddenly find they can form fast friendships with wild animals, muffle their footsteps as they move across the land, and fire arrows with pinpoint accuracy. Learning to control these fights, can be difficult and time-consuming, but worth the effort. What benefit Nylea herself gains from these relationships, particularly with those not inclined for strong religious devotion, is anyone's guess. But perhaps the celestial protector of nature simply enjoys knowing there are a few good mortals willing to work with the wilds, rather than against them.