Yulü and Shenshu Temples

The great twin Pagodas of Crossroads Proper rise above much of the surrounding skyline, save the Cathedral of Penitent Salvation. Set on opposite sides of the central river that runs through the middle of the city, they symbolize the balance between the forces of Yin and Yang, and are the central places of worship for Daoists in Crossroads. They are both the centerpiece of large temples, which include several halls for prayer and study.

Purpose / Function

The temples act as the seat of power for the Daoists, being their largest and most recognizable religious landmark in Crossroads Proper. The floors of the central pagodas act as the central places of worship for hundreds of Daoists, while the surrounding halls have different purposes for the two temples.

Shenshu Temple is the center of schooling for the Daoists, a place of knowledge, study and betterment of oneself. While the temple is mostly flooded with thousands of devout Daoists, those not of the faith are welcome into its halls as long as they follow a strict guideline of decorum.

Yulü Temple is the center of authority for the Daoists, holding a mercenary force of Daoist warriors as well as the ruling body of the Daoist organization within Crossroads. Access to the halls of this temple is typically limited to those of the Daoist faith, but the floors of the Pagoda are open to everyone in the same way as Shenshu Temple.

Architecture

The Pagodas and much of their surrounding temples are constructed from brick, the resources of which have been gathered from the nearby riverbeds and waterways and constructed by dozens of Daoist laborers. The Pagodas are equal in height, each containing 13 identically sized floors.
They also each have a metal spire at the top, which regularly attracts lightning strikes.

Alternative Names

Yin and Yang, Great Temples

Type

Temple / Religious complex

Parent Location

Crossroads Proper

Owning Organization

Daoists