Hermes (called Mercury by the Romans) was the god of gamblers and theives, but also the protector of commerce and the guardian of travelers. Hermes was the son of Zeus and Maria, the daughter of Atlas and Titan. Hermes was gifted with a special lightness. Wings were placed on his feet and his helmet and could easily fly anywhere in the universe. Hermes was very likable, amusing, and talented. Zeus wanted to keep him on Mt. Olympus some of the time, even while hiding Hermes from Hera. Hermes was made the messenger of Zeus by his father himself to make sure Hera did not get suspicious. Hermes also served as a messenger of Hades after Hades threatened to tell Hera the truth about him. Hermes invented the alphabet, astronomy, and the scales. He also made many card games and became an expert cheat, hence what he was named god of. Hermes was a favorite of sculpture and painting because of his beauty and picturesque attire.