Patronages are far and away the most common form of religion in Eos. A Patron is the creator, pioneer, or first true master of a particular skill, craft, or concept. For example, the first man to catch a fish is known as the Fisher Patron, the first world-renowned trader is known as the Merchant Patron.
All Patrons were once real people - though most do not have a known identity, since most trades and crafts predate written history. However, newer (and usually lesser known) Patrons may have a known name, or even still be alive to this day.
Many modern inventors aspire to become Patrons - a high honor and a symbol of utmost respect, although few Patrons are named or recognized until after their death.
In most cases, Patrons are honored rather than worshiped, and the most common place to honor a Patron is at a shrine dedicated to them. Shrines can take many forms, and are usually related in some way to the craft or concept they represent. For example, a shrine of the Traveler might be a roadside stand where travelers can place or take interesting souvenirs they have come across on their travels. The shrine to the Merchant in Sasserine is a wishing well filled to the brim with coins from different regions (though almost none are of any real value).
Not all Patrons are necessarily Good, or even Neutral. There are also Evil Patrons, such as the Killer and the Thief.