Temple of Set

Monastery Name: Monastery of the Serpent’s Fang
Spiritual Focus: Deception, Poison, and Secrets
Master: Venomlord Kadesh Zolar
Kadesh is a serpentine figure with cold, calculating eyes and a forked tongue. He is a master of poisons and a keeper of dark secrets.
Economic Means: See Cobras of Set. The monastery also teaches teachers who are contracted to run primary schools throughout Seregon.

From the perspective of the Temple of Set in Seregon, the relationship with the Red Wizards of Rasar is one of cautious alliance tinged with skepticism and strategic calculation.

Respect and Wariness

The Seregon Temple of Set respects the Rasarians for their devout adherence to Set and their formidable reputation as practitioners of dark magic and covert operations. The Rasarians are seen as valuable allies, particularly because of their historical expertise in arcane arts, their network of spies, and their use of the fearsome Cobras of Set—the elite assassin monks who are unrivaled in their lethal precision.

However, this respect is tempered by wariness. The Seregon Temple recognizes that the Rasarians are fiercely independent, and their enclave operates almost like a separate state within Seregon. The Rasarians' history as a ruling magocratic class, their survivalist mentality following the fall of Rasar, and their disdain for outsiders—even other Set worshippers—create an underlying tension. The Seregon Temple is acutely aware that the Rasarians prioritize their own survival and influence above all else, and as such, they cannot be fully trusted.

Cooperation and Competition

Cooperation between the two temples is often a matter of necessity rather than genuine partnership. The Seregon Temple occasionally enlists the help of the Rasarian Cobras of Set for high-stakes missions that require their specialized skills. These collaborations are seen as transactional; the Seregon Temple benefits from the Rasarians’ expertise, while the Rasarians, in turn, gain influence and resources within Seregon.

Yet, this cooperation is also tinged with competition. The Seregon Temple sees the Rasarians as potential rivals for control over Set’s followers and influence within the city. The Rasarians' enclave, with its quasi-sovereign status and its insistence on maintaining "pure" Rasarian practices, sometimes challenges the Seregon Temple's authority and adaptability within the broader city. The Seregon Temple fears that the Rasarians could undermine their influence or attract negative attention from Seregon's authorities due to their more overtly sinister activities.

Cultural and Theological Differences

The Seregon Temple of Set has, over time, adapted to the local customs, politics, and the diverse population of Seregon. This adaptability is seen as both a strength and a necessity for maintaining their influence in a city where numerous gods and factions vie for power. In contrast, the Rasarians pride themselves on their unyielding adherence to their ancient ways, viewing the Seregon Temple as potentially diluted in its practices and too lenient in its interpretation of Set’s will.

From the Seregon Temple’s perspective, this cultural rigidity of the Rasarians is both a point of contention and a reason for their wariness. The Seregon clergy might privately criticize the Rasarians for their lack of flexibility and their tendency to isolate themselves, which can be counterproductive in the complex political landscape of Seregon.

Strategic Advantage

Ultimately, the Seregon Temple of Set views its relationship with the Rasarians through a strategic lens. While they may not fully trust the Rasarians, they recognize that their expertise and resources can be valuable assets when carefully managed. The Seregon Temple is willing to cooperate with the Rasarians when it suits their interests, but they also remain vigilant, always aware that the Rasarians could just as easily become a threat if their ambitions grow too large.

In summary, the Seregon Temple of Set sees the Rasarians as both allies and potential rivals. The relationship is one of mutual benefit tempered by caution, with each side using the other when necessary but always keeping a close eye on the balance of power.

Character Backgrounds Likely to Have a Connection to the Temple of Set

1. Charlatan
   Charlatans, adept at manipulation and trickery, naturally align with the Temple of Set's focus on deception, secrets, and subtle control. They may have been taught by a priest of Set or sought refuge in the temple after a con went wrong. The temple’s teachings on wielding knowledge and lies as tools of power could easily resonate with their worldview.

2. Criminal
   Criminals, particularly those skilled in espionage or smuggling, could find connections to the Temple through its alliance with the Seven Sins. The temple provides a haven for those who live in the shadows, offering them opportunities to leverage their skills for mutual gain. Its emphasis on pragmatism and survival mirrors their own experiences.

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Reasons Why Characters May Wish to Visit the Temple of Set

1. Seek Secrets or Knowledge
   Characters in pursuit of forbidden lore, hidden truths, or blackmail material may find the Temple of Set invaluable. The priests are masters of uncovering and concealing knowledge, making the temple a prime destination for anyone needing leverage or answers.

2. Forge Alliances with the Seven Sins
   With its strong ties to the Seven Sins, the temple serves as a bridge to Seregon’s criminal underworld. Characters looking to make deals, hire assassins, or gain influence over illicit activities could approach the temple to cultivate these connections.

3. Acquire Specialized Training or Tools
   The Monastery of the Serpent’s Fang within the temple offers training in poison, stealth, and manipulation, appealing to rogues, spies, and assassins. Characters may also visit to acquire rare poisons or antidotes, which align with the temple’s reputation for subtlety and control.