The Temple of Nine Stars

Built into the side of Midnight Mountain, standing alone on the highest terrace in the city, the Temple of Nine Stars overlooks all of Mystryl. It is the headquarters of the Church of Mysteries, the residence of the High Priestess of Mystra, and the home of many of the administrative offices used in the governance of the city. Because it is the home of the High Priestess, it has historically been treated as the capitol. While the implementation of the Mystryl City Council makes this a less formal reality now, the facilities are still the best place from which to govern.
By most accounts, the Temple of Nine Stars is the most impressive structure built by humanoid hands in all of Winderia. The main entrance includes large double doors made of mithral, with a relief of Mystra as the central decoration. Upon entering, visitors are met by walls, floors, and ceilings made of the finest marble. Elaborate frescoes decorate much of the wall space in the large front lobby. Three exits lead out of the lobby. The exits to the left and right lead to the large receiving areas for political and religious dignitaries, respectively, and both have staircases to the offices on the second floor.
The third lobby exit leads into the grand cathedral. Just inside the entrance, the upper floors create a low ceiling. But beyond that, the ceiling rises to the full height of the building, its domed shape supported by exquisite marble columns. Elaborate stained-glass scenes are depicted around the walls, and gilded statues and other decorations are placed around the main hall. The pews can accommodate thousands, and they can all sit in comfort on well-padded seats. No expense was spared. The grand cathedral hosts major religious and political ceremonies, as well as personal events for those with the best connections in the city.
The second floor contains the main meeting areas. Most of the governing of Mystryl happens here. Separate meeting areas are designated for the Confederation Arcanum, the Church, and the Mystryl City Council and other local groups. The meeting space opens onto an impressive balcony reserved for VIPs attending ceremonies.
The third floor contains the residences. The High Priestess has the largest and most impressive quarters. There are eight additional quarters for the highest Church representatives from each of the other city-states. They are essentially ambassadors, though their purview is restricted to broader Church doctrine and how it affects each city-state. More political affairs are handled by the Confederation, and those representatives live outside the Temple grounds. The third floor also opens to a balcony overlooking the grand cathedral, and these seats are reserved strictly for the nine Church representatives living in the Temple.
Behind the main altar and pulpit of the grand cathedral is the entrance to the lower level. This level includes the vault protecting much of the wealth and valuable artifacts of the Church, as well as the Crypt of Ages. Here lies all of the past High Priestesses of Mystra, and it is where Isa Ereskin will be interred upon her death.
Both religious and secular ceremonies are held in the Temple. Priests of Mystra preside over these, but the High Priestess rarely performs them herself. Her direct participation is reserved for only the most important events.

The Midnight Mountain Incident

During the Midnight Mountain Incident, a large portion of the cathedral collapsed due to the violent tremors and release of energy from the Void. The Church is still trying to account for everyone who could have been in the Temple that day.

Type

Cathedral / Great temple

Parent Location

Mystryl

Owning Organization

The Church of Mysteries