Temple of the Harvest Moon

The Temple of the Harvest Moon, which partially included the renovated Moon Tower, was a holy house dedicated to the worship of Chauntea within Harrowdale during the mid-14 century DR. It was a particularly wealthy church dedicated to the Great Mother, run by the extremely accomplished High Mother Harvestmistress Yvonna Oakenstave.

Description
The temple itself was a massive, square stone building constructed around a rounded spire known as the Moon Tower. The walls at the peak of the tower ended in jagged spurs and the topmost floor was torn from the circular tower, and never replaced. In its places, between the spurs was an enormous copper moon that had been enchanted by a continuous everbright spell and illuminated with perpetual Faerie fire. At night, this radiant beacon was visible for miles away.

Beneath the tower, the temple was a hollow square with an interior courtyard. The wealth of the establishment was obvious by its lavish decor. The atmosphere of this temple was quite serene, the staff and guards all spoke in hushed tones.

Clergy
The Harvest Moon was staffed by 20 or so priests and priestesses of Chauntea and guarded by about as many warriors of the faith.

Activities
Clergy of the Harvest Moon spent little time in prayer and rather were often found gardening, assisting farmers throughout the Dales and assisting travelers and pilgrims during their journeys. Due to this altruism, the temple has received many substantial, heartfelt donations which have in turn been used to rebuild roads and renew the farmlands of the surrounding areas.

In addition to their guidance and support, the Chauntean clerics offered healing, food and protected to travelers free of charge or obligation. Those who stayed at the temple with the clergy for more than one night, under the open sky during fair weather to show reverence to the Great Mother, were expected to assist with gardening and chores on the temple grounds.

History
While the temple itself was relatively new, the Moon Tower was believed to predate the Dales themselves, part of a baronial keep that, at one time, served as the home of King Flymder or the pirate, Hantras Wolthead, depending on who was asked.

Local legend stated the destroyed top floor of the Moon Tower had been ripped away by a disgruntled dragon.