Temple of the Arbiter

Overview

The Temple of the Arbiter stands on Arbiter Isle, a small yet prominent island near Swanward in Lake Rorest. This imposing structure serves as both a religious center and Rorestvia's most respected judicial institution, offering neutral ground for resolving disputes throughout the kingdom.

Temple Structure

Visitors must journey across Lake Rorest, passing between two massive stone pillars rising from the water – one white, one black – known as the Scales of Arrival. The temple itself is constructed of white marble and dark granite, perfectly balanced in its use of light and dark materials. The main building is circular with a large central dome flanked by two smaller, equal-sized domes. When reflected in the still waters of the lake, the image creates a perfect representation of balanced scales. The Hall of Judgment, the main chamber beneath the central dome, features tiered seating surrounding a central dais made of rare blue stone that changes hue based on the light. Two large statues flank the dais: one depicting the Arbiter meting justice, the other offering mercy. An oculus in the ceiling allows a perfect beam of light to illuminate the center at midday, symbolizing truth illuminating all matters. Surrounding the main structure are Meditation Gardens with paths designed for contemplative walking, while beneath the temple lies an extensive Archive of legal precedents, contracts, and judgments dating back centuries.

Temple Practices

Before major judgments, officials perform the Scales Ritual, placing clear stones representing evidence and testimonies on an ancient balance scale to visually represent how justice shifts as a case unfolds. The Binding of Oaths ceremony allows participants to place their hands on the Stone of Truth—a polished granite slab at the center of the dais—while speaking their commitments. Oaths sworn in this manner carry tremendous cultural weight throughout Rorestvia. When disputes between communities threaten peace, the Opening of Ways ceremony houses representatives from both sides in opposite wings for three days, communicating only through temple mediators. This forced reflection period has proven remarkably effective at cooling tensions. Once each year, on the autumn equinox, the Night of Balances ceremony brings representatives from all major Rorestvian settlements to renew their commitment to justice and fair dealing.

Cultural Significance

The Temple of the Arbiter holds a special place in Rorestvian society as one of the few truly neutral grounds in the often politically fractured kingdom. It serves several critical functions beyond religious observance: As Diplomatic Neutral Ground, the temple offers territory for negotiations when tensions arise between cities or clans. Many significant treaties in Rorestvian history have been signed within its walls. The temple provides Final Arbitration in cases where local courts cannot reach a resolution, with judgments rendered by the High Judges respected throughout Rorestvia. Important contracts between parties from different cities are often registered at the temple for Contract Verification to ensure their enforcement regardless of local politics. The temple operates a school for Legal Education, accepting promising students from throughout Rorestvia. Graduates are highly respected for their impartial approach to law and justice.

Temple Leadership

The Arbiter's temple mirrors legal systems with a clear hierarchy:

Acolytes - Students of law and justice who maintain the temple grounds and assist with daily operations
Mediators - Resolve minor disputes and perform initial consultations
High Judges - Preside over important cases and major ceremonies
Grand Arbiter - The temple leader who has final authority in all matters

Basic Information

Type: Religious, Judicial
Location: Arbiter Isle, Lake Rorest
Related Deity: The Arbiter
Notable Feature: The Hall of Judgment with its mysterious acoustics
Leadership: Grand Arbiter Theron Evenhand

Type

Cathedral / Great temple

Temple of the Arbiter