Hacempra

Arbiters of Great Works

Though the communities of Jonu Quiato are theocratic in nature, not all power is kept in the hands of the preists. The Arbiters of Great Works, somtimes called the Priests of Great Works, or Hacempros, are the de facto authority on religious art and judge whether works are worthy of the gods' eyes.

The Vaults of Great Works

As worship to Mensonodia, her sons, and other minor gods of Jonu Quiato, offerings are placed in windowless vaults called Hacesgandos. Most towns feature only a small shed adjacent to the chapel but larger settlements may boast an entire building complete with masonry and individual rooms for varying gods. Among the offered goods are works of art--anything from simple pottery to grand paintings and sculputures. But while priests oversee the storage of common goods in the vaults, the Hacempros have a trained eye for the works of art.
Each Arbiter is typically an artist as well (it is forbidden for them to submit their own works to the Hacesganda). Though they of course have a style of their own, they judge submitted works objectively, focusing on merit and the tastes of the devoted god. Another consideration is the similarity of the artists and their art to existing works--especially those of other villages. A painting of a folkloric scene, even a masterful one, may be refused if a neighboring village has donated a similar work to their vault. Hence the nomadic nature of Hacempros as they move between settlements, seeking the great works of their neighbors and, consequently, competitors.

The "Art" of Ruling

A village has one Arbiter, typically an elder who also holds sway in the town affairs alongside any priests. In larger towns, where there are several Arbiters for each individual god, they can outnumber priests, fully comprising the ruling class. The role is passed down among family lines with the children becoming apprentices. Though as with priests, religious devotion and study (alongside a little persuasive measures) may be enough to join the ranks of the Arbiters.