Mystra

Mystra, the Goddess of Magic, is the divine steward of the Weave, the mystical framework that enables magic in the Forgotten Realms. Known as the Mother of All Magic and the Lady of Mysteries, she governs all aspects of spellcasting, arcane knowledge, and magical innovation. Her influence is felt by every mage, sorcerer, and bard who casts a spell, as well as by scholars and inventors who explore the arcane. Mystra is a central figure in Faerûn’s pantheon, embodying the balance between creativity and responsibility in the use of magic.

• Alignment: Neutral Good
• Portfolio: Magic, the Weave, spells, arcane knowledge, mystery, invention
• Domains: Arcana, Knowledge
• Symbol: A circle of seven blue-white stars with a red mist flowing from the center, often depicted as a single star or a weave-like rune
• Favored Weapon: Shuriken (often stylized as star-shaped throwing blades)

Personality and Goals

Mystra is a benevolent and wise deity who views magic as a force for good, progress, and wonder. She encourages mortals to explore the Weave through study, experimentation, and ethical practice, but she is vigilant against its misuse, which could destabilize reality. Her goals include:

• Promoting Arcane Growth: Inspiring new spells, artifacts, and magical traditions.
• Protecting the Weave: Safeguarding it from threats like Shar’s Shadow Weave or reckless archmages.
• Guiding Mortals: Supporting spellcasters and her Chosen to maintain balance and counter evil.

Unlike aloof gods, Mystra is deeply engaged with the mortal world, often communicating through visions, surges of inspiration, or her Chosen, such as Elminster Aumar of Shadowdale. She values free will, trusting her followers to make choices that align with her ethos of responsible magic.

Appearance and Manifestations

Mystra rarely appears in a fixed form, reflecting the fluid nature of magic. When she manifests, she might be:

• A radiant female figure in flowing, star-flecked robes, with eyes like glowing sapphires and hair shimmering with arcane energy.
• A cascade of light, resembling the Weave itself, with threads of blue and silver weaving around her.
• A subtle presence, such as a whispered voice or a glowing rune, guiding a mage in a moment of need.

In Shadowdale, her manifestations are often tied to Elminster’s tower or small shrines, where spellcasters report feeling a warm, electric sensation when praying to her.

Worship and Church

Mystra’s followers, called Mystrians, include wizards, sorcerers, bards, and clerics, as well as non-casters who revere magic’s potential. Her church is decentralized, focusing on personal connection to the Weave rather than rigid hierarchy. Key elements include:

• Clergy: Priests often multiclass as arcane casters, wearing blue or silver robes with star motifs. Titles include Weavewarden or Starweaver.
• Temples: Known as Halls of the Weave, these are rare in the Dalelands but common in cities like Waterdeep. In Shadowdale, worship occurs at small shrines or through Elminster’s guidance.
• Practices: Followers offer spells, create magical items, or meditate to attune to the Weave. Festivals like Starfall (celebrating her return) involve spellcasting displays.
• Tenets: Learn magic, teach it responsibly, protect the Weave, and oppose its corruption.

In Shadowdale, Mystra’s worship is informal but significant due to Elminster, her most famous Chosen. Villagers may leave offerings (e.g., a written spell or a glowing stone) at a roadside shrine near the Old Skull Inn, seeking her blessing for safe travels or magical endeavors. The Harpers, active in Shadowdale, often revere Mystra, using the inn as a discreet meeting place to plan missions aligned with her goals.