The Fane is the central underground cathedral within the yuan-ti temple complex in Omu, serving as the primary ritual chamber where the yuan-ti conduct their serpent ceremonies.
Architecture
The cathedral features dramatic architectural elements centered around serpent imagery:
- A sculptured balcony supported by five rearing stone serpents at one end
- Blood drips from the serpents’ jaws into a semicircular basin
- A sloped trough channels blood from the basin to a wide stone bowl set into the floor
- A mezzanine area with a prominent cauldron of steaming, flesh-scented broth
- A huge gong carved with snake patterns mounted on a western balcony
Function
The Fane serves as the ceremonial heart of the yuan-ti temple, where rituals and gatherings take place. The space swells with yuan-ti during ceremonies but typically remains unguarded otherwise.
Strategic Elements
The gong functions as both a ritual instrument and alarm system:
- One strike: Announces the start of a serpent ritual; all yuan-ti within the temple complex arrive within half an hour
- Two or more strikes: Signals an alarm; yuan-ti throughout the temple converge on this location immediately
Connection to Temple Network
The Fane connects to the broader temple complex through Ras Nsi’s magic teleporter system. An engraved stone disk in the northern alcove serves as one of these teleportation points, allowing rapid movement between key temple locations.