According to Hala's holy text, Tales of the Ages, nine gods created the world from the roiling mists of Chaos. The gods then withdrew, intending to allow mortals to fill their world with acts both good and evil. But the mortals lacked wisdom, and the world was soon filled with pain and anguish. Just one of the Nine Gods, the goddess Hala, returned to the world to ease its suffering. She gathered together thirteen women and thirteen men and taught them the secrets of the Weave, an ancient form of magic. Unfortunately, this brand of magic is also known as witchcraft and provokes widespread, superstitious fear. Witchcraft's wretched reputation is largely due to hags, the most infamous practitioners. Although witchcraft is not inherently evil, it is thought to be rife with occult dangers. Exposure to witchcraft is thought to create Calibans, and according to folklore, witches who lose control of their magic may be permanently transformed into monstrous hags.

The Church of Hala is a secretive and highly mystical faith. Her clerics — who call themselves witches — operate a number of hospices scattered throughout Ravenloft where they offer rest and healing to anyone who comes to their door. The church does not actively seek new followers, however, and nowhere is the Church of Hala the predominant religion.

Hala's witches often face hostility when beyond the doors of their hospices. Any witch of Hala unwise enough to encounter the inquisitors of Tepest, for example, should count herself lucky to escape with her life.

Symbol: A ring formed by thirteen serpents, each devouring the tail of the one before it.

Favored Weapon: Dagger.