Reissara
History
The Reissara, a small and devout cult of Yuan-ti, trace their origins to an ancient realization that reshaped their understanding of Zehir, the Cloaked Serpent. Traditionally feared as a god of poisons, assassins, and shadows, Zehir was revered by the Yuan-ti for his deadly and corrupting power. However, a visionary priestess named Ssiratha found enlightenment through a dream granted by the deity himself. In this dream, she saw how venom, when controlled and administered in the right way, could break down corrupt and mutated cells, purging the body of insidious diseases.
This revelation spurred a sect within the larger cult of Zehir to break away and dedicate themselves to the god’s more restorative yet dangerous aspects. Over centuries, the Reissara became known for their unusual methods of healing, using carefully distilled venoms to cure and purify. They established themselves in old, forgotten temples and ruins near cities, remaining on the fringes of society yet offering aid to those brave enough to seek them out.
Objectives
The Reissara's primary objective is to harness the power of Zehir’s sacred venoms for healing. They seek to master and refine the art of using poison as a cure, believing that through balance, even the deadliest toxins can be transformative. The cult aims to protect the secrets of venom-based medicine while quietly spreading their influence, offering their aid to the desperate and the diseased.
Beyond their healing mission, the Reissara also work to combat what they view as unnatural mutations and corruptions in the world, seeking out and purging blights, curses, or twisted magics that afflict living beings. They see this as a holy mission, a divine calling from Zehir to cleanse the world of impurities.
Uniform or Symbols
Members of the Reissara are identified by their subtle yet striking attire. They typically wear dark, hooded robes woven with serpent motifs in deep green and gold embroidery. A unique feature of their uniform is a sash made from snake scales, dyed a shimmering emerald hue.
Their primary symbol is a coiled serpent encircling a droplet of venom, representing the duality of poison as both a weapon and a cure. Many members also carry small vials of their sacred venoms around their necks, serving as both a source of healing and a defence.
Locations
The Reissara establish their sanctuaries in forgotten places that lie close to bustling cities. These locations are often abandoned temples, crumbling mausoleums, or ruins hidden in the shadow of urban areas. Despite their secluded nature, these sites are intentionally chosen for easy access to those in need.
Each sanctuary, known as a "Venomary," is designed to be both a place of worship and a healing clinic. These Venomaries are heavily warded with illusions and traps to deter the unworthy but are welcoming to the truly desperate or afflicted. The largest of these is the "Sanctum of the Serpent's Kiss," located beneath the ruined foundations of a lost city, rumored to house some of Zehir’s most potent relics.
Comments