His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet Concordat on Fleet Protocol ------------------------------------------------------------------------------The following is a collection of procedure and protocol for the members of his Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet. It is advised that the following is to be read and understood before a member of the Fleet is to be dispatched to the field, but the following information may be referenced at anytime, should the need arise. As with any Imperial law-enforcement agency, protocol cannot cover all aspects of the job, and the Fleet encourages all members to employ their own discretion in any unexpected situation. Any suggestions for further additions to this compendium are welcome. I. The Enforcement of His Imperial Majesty's Law 1. Interpreting the Notable Laws of the Empire. a. Article I. Imperial Law. b. Article II. City Law. c. Article III. Divine Law. d. Article IV. Civil Law. 2. Approaching a Client. a. Before the Approach. b. Identifying the Client. 3. Situation: More than One Client. a. Preparing for such a Situation. b. Behaviour and Posturing. 4. Situation: Disrespectful or Non-Compliant Client. a. If the Client is Suspicious or Offensive. b. If the Client is Peaceful. 5. Attending an Incident. a. Identifying the Clients. b. Identifying the Problem.
c. Taking a Statement. d. Rendering a Decision. e. Taking Action. f. OOC Procedure. g. Writing a Report.
II. The Traditions and Conventions of His Imperial Majesty's Fleet 1. Standards of His Imperial Majesty's Public Servants a. General Behaviour and Demeanour b. Addressing the Public c. Extracurricular Activities d. Use of Force Continuum 2. The Command Hierarchy of the Fleet a. Command Hierarchy Overview b. Command Groups c. Officer Ranks d. Enlisted Ranks e. Positions and Titles 3. Addressing a Fellow Fleet-member a. Greetings, Salutes, and Gestures of Respect b. Addressing Enlisted and Non-Commissioned Officers c. Addressing an Officer 4. Dealing with other Imperial Agencies a. Dealing with the Talon and the Claw b. Dealing with the Clergy c. Dealing with the Government d. Dealing with the Imperial Family 5. Providing Testimony to an Imperial Adjudicator a. Addressing an Imperial Adjudicator b. Delivering Testimony
I. The Enforcement of His Imperial Majesty's Law 1. Interpreting the Notable Laws of the Empire.
Every officer of the Fleet, commissioned or enlisted, is responsible for knowing and understanding every article, section, paragraph and subparagraph under the Notable Laws of the Empire. It is the body of law that governs the City of Cear, and indeed, most regions in the Empire. Every member of the Fleet should carry a copy on his or her person. Every section will be briefly explained below, particularly on how it is to be enforced here in the Empire by members of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet. Nomenclature: The following section will contain abbreviations for the pertinent articles, sections, paragraphs and subparagraph's contained in the Notable Laws of the Empire. They will be abbreviated
using their respective numeral or numbers separated with periods. I.E. Article II, Section 9, Paragraph 1, Subparagraph 5 becomes Article II, Section 9.1.5. Article I. Imperial Law Article I, Section 1.1. wrote: Strictly prohibits anyone who offends with his words or in writing or in any other way disrespects the Emperor or his Governors will be punished swiftly and accordingly. This section refers to any offensive literature or spoken words uttered by any citizen that target the Emperor, or any Governors that serve under him. This can be applied to other high-ranking officials of the government as well. Note that this law does not involve the Church, the Military, or any other Imperial agency that is not bureaucratic in nature. The offender should be warned sternly for his or her words. If the client continues with his slander, he forfeits his freedom and an arrest may take place. Article I, Section 1.1.2. wrote: Let it be known that any form of denigration towards the Emperor’s Consort is an act of Sedition. Those found guilty will be dealt with accordingly. Much like the aforementioned law, this one instead deals with the Emperor's Consort, Nelina. It is to be enforced the same as Article I, Section 1.1. Article I, Section 1.2. wrote: No part of these laws shall be constructed or construed as contrary to the decrees of the Emperor, or of his appointed governors. The above clearly states that any law listed in the Notable Laws of the Empire shall not be interpreted contrary to their intended affect. Any client disputing their meaning should be informed as such. If the client continues to question the law publicly, a warning may be issued, and if appropriate, an arrest may take place. Article I, Section 3.5.1. wrote: It is forbidden to impersonate any Imperial family member, governmental official, those of the clergy, and those of Imperial forces. Those wilfully impersonating any of the above should be commanded to stop forthwith. If they are slow to obey, or should they refuse in any direct or indirect manner, they are to be incarcerated without delay. Article I, Section 3.7.2. wrote: It is a criminal offense to conduct the forgery of Imperial currency or any official documents. The forgery of trade and entertainment permits and licenses also are included in this section. Any citizen entertaining this notion should be ordered to stop, and the forged documents or items in question should be seized in entirety. Further transgressions should be met with an arrest. Article I, Section 5.2.2. wrote: The tampering or destruction of governmental buildings, be they Imperial, Official, or Council, is prohibited.
The vandalizing or damaging of any government building is against the law. Offenders should be warned immediately. The extent of the damage or harm should match the sentence. Incarceration may be used if necessary. Article I, Section 5.2.2. wrote: The unlawful entry to any governmental buildings, be they Imperial, Official, or Council, is a criminal offense. This includes secured government buildings, not public buildings. The Ministry of Trade and Commerce, the public areas of the barracks (this does not include the interrogation room), and the Guardhouse are all public areas, and this law does not apply. Below deck the E.M.S. Resolute is one example where this law would apply. The offender should be escorted off the property, and warned. Further transgressions should result in an arrest. Article I, Section 9.1.3. wrote: The wilful disobedience of all Imperial laws, edicts, and decrees is an act of lawlessness and will not be tolerated. This law is often not enforced on duty, as any charges accumulated would be more than enough to warrant an arrest or some kind of disciplinary action. This Law is often employed in an Adjudicator's Court when a list of charges are read. Article I, Section 11.3.1. wrote: Any act of defiance or disorderly behaviour towards the Empire's military forces will not be tolerated. This refers to disrespectful, defiant or non-compliant clients. If a citizen becomes disorderly when a Fleet-member is issuing a warning for another crime, then an arrest may take place. If disorderly behaviour occurs without a prior crime, a warning may be issued. If that behaviour continues, an arrest may take place. Article I, Section 12.1.1. wrote: Any disloyal or traitorous act directed towards the Empire or its people is a punishable act. This Law is intentionally broad, and discretion is recommended. If the client is speaking in any disloyal or traitorous manner, a warning should be issued. Action should be taken that will appropriately match the disloyal or traitorous act, including but not limited to lethal force. Article I, Section 14.3.1. wrote: It is forbidden to cause any act that will cause civil unrest and anarchy in the attempts to bring about the downfall of the Emperor and the Empire. This law is very similar to the above, but carries a much stricter sentence. Those charged would be guilty of a heinous act that would be considered treason on a grand scale. Active, organized resistance to the Emperor and His Laws, or the established authority, would be an example of a crime fitting this charge. Article II. City Law
Article II, Section 2.6.11. wrote: The felonious act of poisoning of wells, fountains, sewers and other water sources is a punishable offense. The City's reservoir is usually under guard, but the aqueducts are open to the public due to a recent infestation of water anomalies. As such, any Fleet-member should be keen to the fact that the poisoning of the aqueducts is a possibility, as well as the fountain in the centre of the Trades and Commons. The poisoning of any water source should be met with immediate incarceration. Article II, Section 6.3.2. wrote: It is unlawful to enter the city by any means other than the city gates and/or harbour. Those entering the city through any other means should be incarcerated on sight, and questioned. This shouldn't be a problem at this juncture, as the City is quite secure following the Talon's inspection. Be on your guard nonetheless, though. Article II, Section 8.3.8. wrote: No public notices are to either be removed or posted, without the express permission of the respective District Governmental Office. Defacement of said notices will also be treated as a breach of said notice, and penalties shall be extracted in a manner that is befitting of the nature of the crime. Any member of the citizenry posting notices within City Limits should be informed of this Law, and the offending notice should be removed forthwith. If the citizen in question wishes to receive permission for its public posting, he may forward it to the local Ministry of Trade and Commerce. He may expect to pay a small fee. Continual and wilful posting of such forms should be met with an arrest. Article II, Section 9.1.5. wrote: The brandishing of weapons is prohibited within all city limits. All weapons must be sheathed or holstered at all times. Only in the act of defense may weapons be used. This includes any weapon, even quarterstaves. The offending citizen should be warned first, and if he refuses to put the weapon away, he should be placed under arrest. OOC Note: Please be patient with players when this law is concerned. Article II, Section 9.1.6. wrote: The use of magic may be only used for defense. The use of magic for offensive means is strictly forbidden. This law has some required explaining. According to the letter of the law, no magic may be employed in town, unless it is for defensive means. Logistically speaking, this is difficult for us to enforce. Only when the use of magic contributes to disturbing the peace would we step up to put a stop to it. A good example is invisibility. It is a defensive spell. In one case a citizen cast invisibility on another as he took offense to his presence. The affected citizen was offended, and a fight was imminent. The citizen who had cast the invisibility was warned, under this law, that his actions were unlawful.
Further abuse, or mockery of the Fleet in contrary to this law, should result in an arrest. Article II, Section 17.7.3. wrote: The summoning or controlling of the undead or diabolical creatures is forbidden within the city streets and public areas. This is fairly simple. The controlling or mastering of any prohibited summons is strictly forbidden. It is important the officer in question determine who owns the summon, but it is imperative the summon is terminated should the owner refuse, or the owner cannot be ascertained. Further transgressions should result in an arrest. Article III. Divine Law Article III, Section 1.1. wrote: The defiling of any holy place of the True Gods is sacrilege. Those found doing so will atone for their desecration. This is similar to the Imperial law referring to the vandalism of government buildings, except in this instance, it is the defiling of any "holy place" within the Empire. This includes, but is not limited to churches, shrines, cemeteries, catacombs and any other major Imperial site with religious significance. Defiling can be any act that is deemed disrespectful to the patron of said holy place, including but not limited to property damage, slander, libel, or hostile posturing and/or action. The offender is to be removed from the premises and sternly warned. If the action was wilful, then the offender is to be incarcerated. Article III, Section 1.1.7. wrote: The theft of temple goods is sacrilegious and is strictly forbidden. Temple goods can be defined as any property that is held by any religious organisation, be it municipal, provincial or Imperial. The temple in question must be a registered organisation within the Empire for this Law to take affect. Article III, Section 3.3.3. wrote: The public blasphemy of the True Gods is an offense to the civilized people of the Empire, the churches, and the Empire itself. Those found doing so will atone. The term "public blasphemy" is a broad one, and that is intentional. Essentially, any public action, be it with the written or spoken word, that is deemed "blasphemous", would fall under this particular code. Be advised that the action must be in a public venue. This, of course, is up to officer discretion. Blasphemous actions is generally any such action that is contrary to codified Imperial doctrine. The offender is to be warned, and sternly. If the offender continues, he or she is to be incarcerated. Article III, Section 5.2.4. wrote: The construction of temples and idols to false deities is strictly forbidden. Any such construction found will be immediately burned to the ground and the offenders will make reparations for their
blasphemy. Although the law states that any "temples and idols" are forbidden, any site, property or object that in any respect pays homage to a false deity is prohibited. A "false deity" is any god or goddess that is not formally recognized by Imperial doctrine, including the various outlawed deities. It is advised that all Fleet-members brush up on their church doctrine. As stated in the law, the site, object or property is to be destroyed, and the offender is to be punished. Incarceration will do. Article III, Section 5.3. wrote: The owning and wearing of symbols of false gods is an act of heresy. Those found owning or wearing such items will be punished. This law is very similar to the above, except instead of a site, object or property, it deals with symbols or idols that can be kept on one's person. It is important that all Fleet-members are aware of the outlawed deities and their symbols. Article III, Section 7.4. wrote: It is unlawful to pay divine homage to false deities. Any citizen suspected of worshiping a false deity is to be detained and questioned. If no evidence can be procured, the citizen is to be released. If evidence is uncovered that supports such a charge, the offender is to be incarcerated immediately. If the offender merely referenced the deity in passing, but does not out rightly worship said deity fulltime, he or she may be released after a standard gaol sentence. If the offender considers the said outlawed deity to be his or her patron god, then the offender must be locked up indefinitely until a tribunal of Adjudicators or a panel from the local Church can recommend suitable legal recourse. Article IV. Civil Law Article IV, Section 1.7.2. wrote: Evading the paying of all taxes owed to the Emperor and the Empire is a punishable act. The Fleet is not directly responsible for enforcing the paying of amercements or taxes, but any Fleetmember can and most probably will be contracted by the Ministry of Trades and Commerce to assist in high-risk repossession. This law is most likely one to be seen in the Adjudicator's Courts, and not one to be usually employed by members of the Fleet. Article IV, Section 2.1.3. wrote: It is a punishable offense to illicit, bargain for, barter for and traffic illegal materials or food stuffs within and outside the borders of the Empire. If a Fleet-member suspects that the trafficking of illegal goods is underway, he is to observe the situation until enough evidence presents itself. Any parties involved are then to be incarcerated, and the goods are to be seized as evidence. Article IV, Section 5.3.1. wrote:
Thievery in any form is strictly prohibited. If a member of the Fleet personally witnesses a citizen stealing, that citizen is to be immediately incarcerated and questioned. If a member of the Fleet suspects that a citizen has been stealing, he or she is to detain and question the accused, and determine the truth. In any case, the returned item is to be returned, or the offender may not go free. Be advised that if the Fleet-member cannot take any action due to insufficient evidence, he or she is to post a crime report under the Fleet's Intelligence file for possible follow-up. Article IV, Section 10.4.9. wrote: It is prohibited to plan and/or to conduct the deed of murder. Any one or multiple people suspected of planning a murder are to be detained and questioned. If they were indeed planning to commit, they are to be incarcerated. If a murder takes place the accused is to be incarcerated on the spot. Article IV, Section 11.2.2. wrote: The theft and/or the unlawful killing of livestock is forbidden. Any one citizen seen killing or stealing livestock from the Emperor's fields are to be detained and questioned. If the suspect is deemed to be guilty he or she is to be incarcerated. In the event of theft, the livestock in question is to be returned to a Fleet-member so it may be forwarded to the pertinent authority. In Conclusion Any concerns or questions may be forwarded to myself for clarification. These laws are important, and the correct application of enforcement is important for a consistent and informed enforcement agency. - Commodore Torquil Lamond
I. The Enforcement of His Imperial Majesty's Law 1. Approaching a Client.
The following sections in this Concordat will deal with public relations, specifically with how a member of the Cerulean Fleet should act when fulfilling his or her duties in the public sphere. This particular section has to do with approaching a client, be it a suspicious client, an offending client, or a peaceful client. Before the Approach When you have made the decision to approach a citizen, it is important that you take the opportunity to remember what they look like. Especially in the case of peaceful clients, you have a great chance to take down their various physical features (in the event that they become offensive, and run). Try to remember or take down the citizen's hair colour, hair style, race, gender, identifying marks, clothing, possible weapons, cloak, cloak colour, and whatever else you deem important when it comes to identifying that client in the future. While seemingly unimportant now, these descriptions are very important when a Fleet-member must file an Incident or Arrest report. Identifying the Client
Identifying the client does not always mean taking down their physical description. It is important that Fleet-members also determine what type of client they will be dealing with. Is the citizen a suspicious client, an offending client or a peaceful client? A suspicious client is, in most cases, a citizen that you suspect has committed or is committing a crime. In this case it is best the Fleet-member approach the client with caution, asking in a firm, loud voice for them to "halt", or "hold fast". The suspicious client may bolt at any moment if he or she feels they can escape the Law, and it is your responsibility to pursue should that eventuality come to pass. An offending client is a citizen who has already broken the Law, and you have witnessed this, or have good evidence backing up such an assertion. Depending on the offense, the client may try to run from you, or bolt during conversation. As with the suspicious client, it is your job to pursue. If you are approaching for the first time, "halt" or "hold fast" yelled in a loud, firm voice should be employed. In most cases approaching an offending client has to do with Article II, Section 9.1.5, the brandishing weapons clause—most citizens are compliant when this is the case. A peaceful citizen is a citizen you do not suspect has committed a crime. Perhaps you are approaching for additional information, a statement, or merely to have a conversation. In any case, you may approach as you deem fit. In conclusion: When dealing with a suspicious client one must: ○ At any time take down the client's description. ○ Ask them to stop if they are on the move, either with "halt" or "hold fast". ○ Be ready for them to bolt, or fight. Make sure your defenses are up, and be ready to chase. When dealing with an offending client one must: ○ At any time take down the client's description. ○ Ask them to stop if they are on the move, either with "halt" or "hold fast". ○ Be ready for them to bolt, or fight. Make sure your defenses are up, and be ready to chase. When dealing with a peaceful client, one must: ○ At any time take down the client's description. ○ Approach in any manner you see fit. That is all that remains when approaching a client. If you have further questions please contact Commodore Torquil Lamond for clarification.
I. The Enforcement of His Imperial Majesty's Law 1. Situation: More than One Client.
In many cases a Fleet-member will have to deal with a group of clients, or one client with several bystanders. The citizenry of Cear often watch the judiciary process on the streets of Cear, and this is something that every Fleet-member must be cautious about. A group of bystanders can easily turn into a group of suspicious clients. Preparing for such a Situation
In a situation where a Fleet-member has to deal with multiple clients, it is advised that extreme caution be employed. You are the Law, and you must maintain control over the situation. This is paramount. The minute you lose control, you lose the ability to enforce His Imperial Majesty's Law. You are the arm of the Law here, and must act as such. Multiple Fleet-members is advisable when dealing with a large group. If you are aware of another Fleetmember in the region, contact them for assistance if you believe your interaction with a group of clients may evolve into a dangerous predicament. If you are able to get back-up from another Fleet-member, it is best that you both decide who is lead, and who is follow. The lead Fleet-member is the one in control of the situation. He or she is the one speaking, the one asking questions, the one giving orders, etcetera. The follow is the Fleet-member that is backing up the lead. It is important that the follow does not interrupt the lead, or speak in a contrary manner to the lead. You are both providing one face of the Law, and you must act in tandem. The lead Fleet-member needn't always be the higher ranking Fleet-member. In fact, it is encouraged to mix it up a bit, as it were. If you are alone, and there are no other Fleet-members in the region, do your best to maintain effective control over the situation. Issue your warnings, instruct your clients to be quiet when necessary, and use a firm, solid voice. There are many citizens who will respect authority when it is demonstrated, so do your best to present the best demonstration possible. Finally, the City Watch is in the area and are under your control. If you feel you must employ them in violence, do so. They are there for your safety and for the security of the City. Behaviour and Posturing Remember that you are the one in control. If clients begin to talk over you, ignore you, disrespect the presence of the Fleet or begin to walk away, you have lost control and must regain it. It is best to do so without employing the use of violence, as it can contribute in you losing control just as effectively. If you are lead, be sure to instruct clients who are talking out of turn to be quiet. If they continue, warn them that further transgressions will result in them being detained. It is best to try to avoid this, as it can derail your investigation. You may charge a disobedient client, and have your follow detain them, or take them aside in custody so that you may both remain. It is also best to arrange yourselves in an intimidating manner. The lead will be facing the group of clients, and the follow will be arranged on the other side, covering the exit. If there are additional Fleetmembers, they may arrange themselves so that all exits are blocked, and the group is effectively "fenced in". If you are dealing with peaceful clients, such tactics may not be necessary. If you are taking statements from a group of peaceful clients, it is best that you take them separately. Have a follow take a client away, and you can take another in an opposite direction. Try to keep an eye on the group if possible. In Conclusion Dealing with multiple clients is not easy, and it's never going to be easy. It is tricky business maintaining effective control over a group of clients, and the Fleet-member of Fleet-members involved must act and behave in a manner conducive to non-violent, effective control. Should violence break out, it is your job to restore order. Use whatever means possible to do so. If you have any additional questions, please contact Commodore Torquil Lamond for clarification.
I. The Enforcement of His Imperial Majesty's Law Situation: Disrespectful or Non-Compliant Client.
Without a doubt, any member of the Fleet will come into contact with a disrespectful or non-compliant client. It is an unavoidable possibility, and such an eventuality must be dealt with carefully, but forcefully. His Imperial Majesty's Fleet must be seen as unyielding in the face of those who question the Law. It is suggested that the minute a client adopts a disrespectful, disorderly or non-compliant tone, that the attending Fleet-member warn them of such, and that disorderly behaviour will not be tolerated easily. In most cases the client may be frustrated with given circumstance, and perhaps not even with the Fleet in general; they may just be aggravated for any reason. It is important that before the Fleet pursue any legal recourse for disorderly behaviour, that they warn the client that what they're doing is unacceptable. It shouldn't be difficult to differentiate between a client who is wilfully being disrespectful, that is, purposefully causing grief in the aim of insulting or mocking His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet, and a client who is unknowingly or ignorantly being disrespectful. This is important, as it will be weighed in determining what actions you, as a Fleet-member, will take. If the Client Is a Suspicious or Offensive As per the Identifying a Client article, a suspicious client, or an offensive client is dealt with differently when they become disorderly. If the client is already being investigated for a crime, and they become disrespectful, warn them very sternly that they are not helping themselves with such a tone, and they better correct themselves. If they do not adopt a more agreeable tone, and if the Fleet-member attending believes that they will become a problem, an arrest may take place. If the client is guilty of a crime, any crime, and they adopt a disrespectful tone upon your interrogation, an arrest will take place without delay. If the Client Is Peaceful If the client is a peaceful one, and should they adopt such a tone, the Fleet-member attending must issue a warning that their tone is unacceptable, and they are violating the Law. If they ignore the Fleetmember's warning, and continue to offer disrespect to His Imperial Majesty's Fleet, an arrest may occur. If you have any additional questions, please contact Commodore Torquil Lamond for clarification. OOC NOTE: It is important that as PC Guards we be patient with the player community. It is our role to play guards here, and to provide a roleplayable guard. We fail to become roleplayable, and "interactable", if we lock someone up the minute they start to RP with us. Let's give people a little bit of leeway when they try to RP the bad guys. It'll make it more fun for all involved.
I. The Enforcement of His Imperial Majesty's Law
Attending an Incident. The majority of one's official duties will be the attendance of the various incidents and reports that will be filed with the men and women of the Cerulean Fleet. An "Incident" is any situation where the Law is concerned, where a violation or disturbance of said Law has occurred. In this case, a Fleet-member might receive a report of said violation, or might even witness it in its commission. In any case, it is important that when a Fleet-member attends an Incident he or she employs the proper protocol to ensure that all the necessary steps are covered. Identifying the Clients As per the article on approaching a client, be sure that you make an effort to take down the physical description of all clients, and to determine which clients are offensive, which are suspicious, and which are peaceful. Introduce yourself, including your rank, first name and last name. Be sure to let them know that you are a member of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet, and are the Law in these parts. Get the full names of all present. If there are more than one client, please refer to the article on multiple clients for additional information on dealing with such a situation. Once you have finished identifying all of the clients, and introducing yourself, you must commence with the inquiry stage of your response. Identifying the Problem If you were tipped off that a problem was occurring, it is best to begin questioning the individual who sent for you. If it is possible to do so, collect your information from this person out of earshot of any other assembled party. This will help in maintaining the integrity of the information to be collected. If you are with another Fleet-member, instruct them to look after whoever else is in attendance that is part of the complaint. When identifying the problem, immediately attempt to justify your presence: is this something the Cerulean Fleet can correct, or act upon? Is this within our jurisdiction? Have any laws been broken? If there is nothing that we can act upon, inform them of such and depart. Be sure that you have indeed ascertained that the Fleet cannot assist them. If you believe the Fleet has business with these individuals, then continue your investigation. Attempt to refer to any Laws that might have been broken, recalling the appropriate sentences or actions that are listed under the article for interpreting the Laws. Once you have clearly established what the problem is, you can continue with your investigation in the form of taking a statement. Taking a Statement This is not always necessary, but encouraged if the alleged crime or offence is particularly complex or complicated. This is easily accomplished if you have multiple Fleet-members on hand, as each Fleetmember can take a witness or suspect to take a statement. Simply allow the client to explain, in his or her own words, what happened. Be sure this is done in a private manner, to maintain the integrity of the information collected. It is fair if you take the client aside, and speak in whispers.
You should have your notebook (journal) on hand, and you can take down any pertinent information there. OOC Note: I run the game in windowed mode for this purpose. If an offence occurs, and I need to take a statement, I can easily hit MS Word on my quick launch bar, and re-size it so it's wide and short, so I can still read my client's statement in the chat bar, and keep an eye on any nearby suspects or witnesses. Makes it easy to CTRL+C it into a report as well, as you cannot do this with your journal. Be sure that pertinent client's statements have all been taken down, and with them in hand you can properly render a decision. Rendering a Decision This is all officer discretion. You should have collected enough information to ascertain if a.) has a law been broken? and b.) can I take any action at the present time? If the Law has been violated, make sure you've established which ones they are. Do not be conservative when it comes to applying His Imperial Majesty's Laws to any present witnesses or accused, be it the disturbance of his peace, the disorderly behaviour directed towards a Guardsman, or any action deemed unlawful. Above all, see to it that Justice is served, and that through it all, the Laws are respected, as they are due. Taking Action Your actions are all based on the decision you've rendered. If you've decided that only Imperial Warnings need be issued, do so and include whatever individual you see fit. Do this in a stern manner, and be sure to include it in your report. If you have decided an arrest needs to take place, prepare yourself, as many clients may take offence to such a notion. If you feel that you may not survive the encounter, do not be afraid to call upon the assistance of your fellow City Watchmen. Explain to the accused why they are being arrested, what their sentence will be, and whatever information you see fit to provide them. Above all, be sure they serve their sentence. If they run, pursue until the suspect has been apprehended. OOC Procedure There is a bit of OOC procedure when it comes to using the gaol keys. 1) Once you have determined that an arrest must take place, and you are ready to escort them to gaol, target your accused and tag them ONCE with your gaol key. At this point the accused has exactly 10 minutes to enter a gaol cell. If they are compliant, then the second they enter the cell the door will close, and they will serve out their sentence. Their record is cleared upon entry of said cell, which means the tag you gave them will disappear, as if they never had it. When their sentence is complete, the gaol door will automatically open. Now, should the suspect be non-compliant, then things will get interesting. If they run, killing them, or them dying by any means, will cause them to respawn in an available gaol cell. So be sure to return to gaol to finish interrogating them, informing them of their charges and their sentence. If 10 minutes pass between when you tagged them, and when they ran, then they will become hostile to
the entire City garrison. That means that any Cear Town Guard, or Thrall's Gate Warlord will attack them on sight. Again, if they die, they will respawn in a gaol cell. 2) If you are attacked by a citizen wilfully, or if you for any reason feel that a citizen needs to be apprehended quickly, and without delay, tag them with your gaol key TWICE. The first one will give them their 10 minutes, and the second tagging will automatically set the client to hostile with the City garrison. This means nearby guards, OnPerceive, will attack the client. Be advised that any nearby guards in perceive range will have to "re-perceive" the client. This usually happens when patrolling guards re-enter a client's perceive range. This usually isn't an issue when clients bolt. As always, the client will respawn in a gaol cell on death. 3) If you feel that at any time the client needs to be cleared of his charges, tag them THREE times. First will give them their 10 minutes, second will send the guards on them, and third will clear them of all charges. This is tricky, as once a second tag has been issued, they will most likely be dead (unless they are far enough away from the guards to get a third tag on them). A third tag is usually done when you accidentally tag someone, or if you believe the suspect needn’t be arrested. Important: use the second tagging sparingly; it is not fun to have the guards ALWAYS sent on a client should they break the law. It is reasonable when their 10 minutes expire, and they're "hunted" by the regional authorities, but the guards jumping on them all the time isn't exactly fair. It is fun, for both parties, to play some "cat and mouse" sometimes. If, however, you are being attacked directly, or if you feel overwhelmed, do not hesitate in using that second tag. You are the Law. This ends the OOC section of this article. Writing a Report When you are completely finished with your duties involving that incident, it is important that you file a report detailing the incident itself, the suspect(s) involved, the witnesses, physical descriptions of all witnesses and suspects, and the actions you took. Please leave your report in the Incident and Arrest File. If you have any additional questions, please contact Commodore Torquil Lamond for clarification.
II. The Traditions and Conventions of His Imperial Majesty's Fleet 1. Standards of His Imperial Majesty's Public Servants
As a member of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet, one must be held accountable to the standards, traditions and conventions that the Emperor demands from all of his public servants. The Cerulean Fleet is not alone in this requirement; every Imperial agency within His Imperial Majesty's Empire must adhere to a core set of principles. The following is an example of this, albeit tailored specifically to the Cerulean Fleet's mandate. Wanton violation of the following will be met with the appropriate level of disciplinary action. General Behaviour and Demeanour As members of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet, all Fleet-members upon their engagement summarily represent not only the Empire, but the Emperor as well. Fleet-members represent His Imperial Majesty's wishes, intentions, and his will. As Fleet-members work and operate within their
sphere of expertise, they are performing the work of the Emperor, and in so doing, must act in such a way not to defame, sully or besmirch His Imperial Majesty. Any action, behaviour or disposition that amounts to any defamation of the Emperor will be met with little mercy. Fleet-members are to act and behave in a professional, impartial manner. They are required to perform their duties, whatever they may be, professionally and handsomely. Addressing the Public When addressing the public, be it a client or a common citizen, Fleet-members must exercise a certain degree of restrain and impartiality. Registered citizens are to be addressed according to their station. Common citizens and merchants are to be addressed as "sir" or "ma'am". Citizens of the lower nobility are to be addressed in the same manner. Nobles owning estates, land, or titles are to be addressed as "Lord" or "Lady", as due their title. Governors, Earls, Counts, Dukes and Barons are to be addressed as "Your Excellency". When in doubt, address the person as per their introduction. If the Lord of Lanburg were to introduce himself as "Lord Randehl", you shall address him as such. Members of the Imperial Family are to be addressed as "Your Imperial Majesty". Members of a foreign country are to be addressed as they are introduced, or, if in doubt, as "Your Highness" or "Your Excellency". When dealing with suspected clients, treat them professionally and with diligence. Behaving in this manner will not only make your work as a Fleet-member easier, but will also maintain and improve the reputation of the Cerulean Fleet. Extracurricular Activities When on duty, members of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet are prohibited from consuming any form of spirit, wine, beer or alcoholic beverage. Members are also prohibited from smoking, chewing tobacco, or other such activities. When off duty, members may act as they please, but they are prohibited from engaging or participating, or abetting any form of criminal activity. Being "off duty" does not change your status as a Member of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet. Your oath applies off, and on duty. When in doubt, act in a manner that would not bring His Imperial Majesty's name or reputation into disrepute. Use of Force Continuum Members of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet are authorized to use whatever force necessary to enforce His Imperial Majesty's Notable Laws of the Empire, up to and including the application of deadly force. Members are required to use discretion in this matter. If the client is peaceful and co-operative, the Fleet-member is required to act in such a way to facilitate the administration of justice, and not to escalate nor exacerbate the present level of force. If any resist is given, the Fleet-member in question is authorized to use whatever means to take his or her quarry into custody. If you have further questions please contact Commodore Torquil Lamond for clarification.
II. The Traditions and Conventions of His Imperial Majesty's Fleet
2. The Command Hierarchy of the Fleet Command Hierarchy Overview His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet is a law enforcing agency located with the City of Cear. It's jurisdiction is approximately five (5) leagues in any direction from the City, including the thoroughfares, roads and highways on land, and any seaways, passages and oceanic territory on water. As such, the Fleet is a provincial organisation operating within the City of Cear. The governance of the Cerulean Fleet is handled not only by the Commodore, but by the regional authority within Cear, His Excellency the Governor. The Fleet also answers to the regional Talon and Claw Commands. The Cerulean Fleet not only govern the members within its organisation, but also the City Watch of Cear. His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet is comprised of three rank-types: officer, non-commissioned officer and enlisted. Officers are the upper-echelon of the Fleet, and deal mainly with the administration of the Fleet and the observance of those serving below them on the command hierarchy. Officers also deal with more serious or major criminal investigations, as well as sensitive files that require more experience and command influence. Non-Commissioned Officers are responsible for the enlisted members beneath them, as well as handling day-to-day mundane law enforcement. NCOs may assist officers in the administration of their duties, as well as supervise the activities and operations of the enlisted below them. NCOs may also participate as "officers commanding" in special task forces, missions and assignments. Enlisted members are generally new recruits to the Fleet, and exclusively handle day-to-day enforcement of the Notable Laws of the Empire. Enlisted members may also assist NCOs in special task forces, missions and assignments. Command Groups His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet is comprised of command groups, which assist in delegating the subordinates under an officer's or non-commissioned officer's command. A general overview of the Fleet's command groups is listed below. The rank or position in parenthesis denotes the intended commanding officer.
○ The Cerulean Fleet (Commodore) ○ The Cerulean Fleet (First Captain) Command Group - Flagship E.M.S. Resolute (Commodore) First Lieutenant (Lieutenant) Quartermaster (Any NCO) Captain Command Group - First Captain E.M.S. Ardent (First Captain) First Lieutenant (Lieutenant) Captain Command Group X (Captain) First Lieutenant (Lieutenant) The Commodore not only commands His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet, but also commands a ship
command group. Though the Commodore's command group is located beneath the First Captain on this diagram, he retains command over his command group. The third command group, Captain Command Group X, represents any further additions to the number of command groups, where X represents the number of that command group. Officer Ranks ○ Commodore ○ Captain ○ Lieutenant The Commodore is the commanding officer of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet. He deals with provincial and national concerns, administrates and organises the Fleet so that it may effectively and efficiently conduct its duties and mandate, as well as participate in major criminal investigations. The Commodore may also assist in the command and administration of his subordinates. Captains within the Fleet generally command a vessel of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet, and also administrate a group of members assigned to his command. Captains are generally autonomous from one another, save the First Captain who assists the Commodore directly. A Captain's duty is similar to the Commodore in many respects, although they generally only include the administration and governance of the members under his or her command. Lieutenants within the Fleet generally operate under the command of a Captain, or Captains. Senior Lieutenants, known as First Lieutenants, directly assist the Captain in his or her duties, very similar to that of the First Captain and the Commodore. Lieutenants directly supervise the Fleet-members under the command of his or her Captain. Enlisted and Non-Commissioned Ranks ○ Ensign ○ Corporal ○ Constable ○ Sub-Constable Ensigns and Corporals are known as Non-Commissioned Officers. Constables and Sub-Constables are the only enlisted ranks within the Fleet. Ensigns are identified as remarkably intelligent and capable members of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet. Corporals promoted to Ensign generally show a flair for command and duty, and almost always will achieve a commission as Lieutenant. An Ensign's duty is similar to that of a Corporal, yet they command and administrate the Corporals and Constables under their command. Corporals are Constables that have shown prowess and experience as a member of the Fleet. Corporals tend to be Constables that not only exhibit experience, but the ability to command, take charge, and initiative. Corporals are often well suited to small task-forces, comprised of Constables and SubConstables, that deal directly with minor and major crimes. Constables is generally the entry rank of the Cerulean Fleet. They have the authority to effect an arrest, as does any rank above them, yet they have no command. Their general duty is to the day-to-day enforcement of the Notable Laws of the Empire. Recruits who have shown an aptitude for law enforcement, but do not exhibit the necessary skills that
would be required for a Constable’s position generally fill the Sub-Constables role. Sub-Constables do not have the authority to effect an arrest, and generally serve as "extra-body" law enforcement, directly assisting Constables in arrests and in the administration of the Law. Constables do not command SubConstables, and it is highly inappropriate for one to issue an order, or expect an order to be followed by a Sub-Constable. Sub-Constables generally tend to be races or members of certain societal groups within the Empire that are restricted from public service. Those members who have shown the right amount of skill and experience will eventually see a promotion to Constable. Positions and Titles There is a great distinction between positions and ranks within the Cerulean Fleet. A rank is a member's position in the command hierarchy, while a position often denotes certain special responsibilities and tasks. The following are known positions within the Fleet: ○ Commodore ○ First Captain ○ Scout Lieutenant ○ First Lieutenant ○ Quartermaster The Commodore is the only position that is exclusive to a rank. The First Captain will fill the Commodore's position should the Commodore fall. After the First Captain is the most next-senior Captain, following the Captain's lists through each subsequent senior member, until reaching the ScoutLieutenant. There is only one Commodore. The First Captain directly assists the Commodore in the administration of the Fleet. The First Captain is the second-in-command of His Imperial Majesty's Fleet, and should the Commodore fall in battle, the First Captain assumes temporary command. The First Captain will be the next Commodore of the Cerulean Fleet should the Commodore be killed, retired or ejected from the Fleet. There is only one First Captain. The Scout Lieutenant is responsible for all intelligence in the Fleet, be it political, economic, societal, geographical or otherwise. The Commodore and First Captain directly receive advisement from the Scout Lieutenant related to these issues. There is only one Scout Lieutenant. First Lieutenants are the most senior officers within a Captain's command group. Should a Captain be promoted or killed, the First Lieutenant generally assumes command of that group. There can be several First Lieutenants. The Quartermaster is the purser of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet. The Quartermaster deals directly with the Fleet's funds, surplus equipment, estates, and the administration and maintenance of the Fleet's armada. There is only one quartermaster, and it may be filled by any member of the Fleet, excluding the enlisted. If you have further questions please contact Commodore Torquil Lamond for clarification.
II. The Traditions and Conventions of His Imperial Majesty's Fleet 3. Addressing a Fellow Fleet-member
As members of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet, and more importantly, as members of the
Imperial Armed Forces, there is policy governing the manner in which members interact and address one another. As a para-military organisation, it is important that the Cerulean Fleet maintain, and indeed, enforce these policies. It is in this manner that an atmosphere of discipline an order is fostered, and only with discipline and order can the Cerulean Fleet perform its primordial function. Greetings, Salutes, and Gestures of Respect There are a variety of gestures and greetings members are required to know when interacting with subordinate and superior personnel. Casual greetings and salutations may be compromised of a nod and a "Good Morning", or "Good afternoon" (whatever the case may be), followed by the member's rank if he or she is a subordinate, or a "sir" or "ma'am" if he or she is a superior. This form of greeting is to be employed when a salute is not required. A hand salute is a gesture of respect rendered to a superior officer, government official, imperial family member, or during a ceremonial event. It is unnecessary for a salute to be rendered to a noncommissioned officer, or an enlisted member. The hand salute begins with a sharp, one-count movement of the right arm to the brow. The hand and palm is flat, fingers and thumbs extended and joined, positioned so that the right forefinger is just to the right of your right eye. The underside of the hand should be displayed to the party the member is saluting, angled so that a line, if drawn from the bottom edge of your hand to the ground, would be straight. The hand, wrist and upper arm should be straight and even, and the elbow should be slightly forward from the body. When the party being saluted returns the salute, the saluting hand should be coiled into a fist, and returned to its position at the member's right side in one sharp and smooth action. There are certain conditions when a salute is required, or unnecessary. A salute is only rendered when the officer is in full-uniform; that is, the officer must be wearing his cerulean colours, tabard, crossstrap and helmet. The cloak is optional. If the officer is not wearing his helmet, or any article of his fulldress uniform, then a salute is not required. In stead, a greeting or gesture of respect may be supplemented. However, if the officer you are saluting is not in full-dress, but you are, you are still required to render a salute. It is customary, then, for the officer to acknowledge the salute with a gesture or nod. Only when both parties are not in full-dress shall a salute not be rendered. Be advised that when indoors neither party are required to salute, as both are not wearing their headdress. A gesture of respect, or nod, is still necessary. The Imperial Armed Forces requires that all headdress be removed when entering a building. Therefore, as the helm would be removed when inside, no hand salutes shall be rendered when indoors. Only when addressing a member of His Imperial Majesty's Government or Family would one render a salute indoors, or during a ceremonial or official event, such as a tribunal or trial. In short, a salute is only given: ○ To an officer, government official, imperial family member, or during a ceremonial event. ○ When the party being saluted is in full-dress uniform. Therefore, generally speaking, no salutes shall be rendered when indoors. Addressing Enlisted and Non-Commissioned Officers
As an enlisted member or non-commissioned officer, all enlisted members may be addressed by their first or last name, their rank or their position. No salute shall be rendered, and the addition of "sir" or "ma'am" is considered inappropriate. Non-commissioned officers may be addressed by their rank or position, or their first or last name if the member is an NCO. No salute shall be rendered, nor shall the "sir" or "ma'am" be added. As an officer, all enlisted members and non-commissioned officers may be addressed by their first or last name, their rank or their position. No salute shall be rendered, and the addition of "sir" or "ma'am" is considered inappropriate. Addressing an Officer As an enlisted member or non-commissioned officer, all officers may be addressed by their rank or position. Salutes shall be rendered when appropriate, as well as the additional "sir" or "ma'am" in response to an order, statement, or question by the officer. As an officer, all fellow-officers equalling your rank may be addressed by their first or last name, their rank or their position. If the officer is a superior, they may be addressed by rank or position. Officers equalling your rank do not require the salute, nor the addition of "sir" or "ma'am". Officers outranking you shall be saluted when appropriate, and replied to with "sir" or "ma'am". In closing, salutes and official gestures of respect are only required in an official capacity. In view of the public, these customs and conventions are to be adhered to. In private, and within the closed doors of the Fleet, it is the discretion of the commanding officer as to whether these customs shall be ignored. If you have further questions please contact Commodore Torquil Lamond for clarification.
II. The Traditions and Conventions of His Imperial Majesty's Fleet 4. Dealing with other Imperial Agencies
At times, members of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet shall be required to deal with, and in some fashion, co-operate with members of other imperial agencies. An Imperial Agency may be defined as an organisation directly or indirectly related to, or operating within the jurisdiction of the government, be it imperial, provincial or municipal. An example of an imperial agency would be His Imperial Majesty's Talon Forces, or His Imperial Majesty's Claw Forces, or His Imperial Majesty's Order of the Falcon. Members of these agencies are to be treated with the respect and courtesy they are due. Dealing with the Talon and the Claw His Imperial Majesty's Talon Forces directly outrank any and all members of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet. The commanding officer of the City of Cear's regional Talon Command is Commander Maxwell Allers. The utmost courtesy and respect is to be offered to the Commander and his subordinates. Salutes are to be rendered in the appropriate situation. When in doubt, salute anyway. If a member of the Talon Command issues an order to a member of the Cerulean Fleet, that order is to be obeyed, unless it contradicts the primordial mandate of the Fleet, or jeopardizes the reputation of His Imperial Majesty. Out of courtesy orders shall be conveyed to commissioned Fleet personnel by an equal or superior rank within the Talon Command, but this will not always be the case, and in lieu of this any and all orders issued by any and all members of the Talon Command shall be obeyed. The Talon are the arm of the Emperor, and an order from them might as well be an order from the Emperor himself.
Dealing the Clergy Members of His Imperial Majesty's Clergy, be it in the Church of Lochwar, Tharon, Farallis or any other member of the pantheon, shall be respected and credited the proper respect as due their station and reputation. As the political structure and make-up of each clerical agency differs, the Fleet-member is instructed to exercise discretion when dealing with a member of the clergy. If the clergyman or clergywoman's title is "Sir" or "Lady", then the Fleet-member shall employ that in his or her address. If they are known as "Father" (such as our regional representative of the Church of Lochwar, Father Piotus), the member is to address him as such. Any member or members of the clergy are not law enforcement personnel. They are not invested with the authority to enforce His Imperial Majesty's Notable Laws of the Empire. Any such member attempting to do so may be charged, if deemed appropriate, and indeed, necessary, under Article I, Section 3.5.1. of the Notable Laws of the Empire. Members of the Fleet are encouraged to deal with this situation in a delicate, sensitive manner. At times, members of the Cerulean Fleet may be called upon to co-operate with members of the clergy in a joint-task environment. In these situations, the members of the clergy involved exist to submit advise and to suggest a course of action to take. It is the prerogative of the Fleet-member to initiate and enforce the subsequent action. Clergy-members are to be involved only when matters of the divine, specifically Article III, come into play. Dealing with the Government The regional government of Cear, specifically His Excellency the Governor, may instruct and convey orders to the Cerulean Fleet as he or she wishes. It is the responsibility of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet to accept and obey any and all of these conveyances with efficiency and speed. Members of His Imperial Majesty's Government are to be afforded the proper respect and courtesy as their station and title is due. Be advised that only members of the government that represent the Emperor's interests and will have the privilege of issuing orders to the members of the Cerulean Fleet. Agencies such as the Ministry of Trades and Commons do not have this privilege. Agencies such as the Governor's Office do. Dealing with the Imperial Family The Imperial Family's word is law. By disobeying, or neglecting to respect such a member as they are due, is not only stupid, but may result in your immediate execution. When addressing a member of the Imperial Family every member of the Fleet is expected to bow, and to descend on one knee. Never display your back to a member of the Imperial Family unless otherwise instructed. Dealing with the Imperial Family is a simple task. If they make a request of the Cerulean Fleet, it is seen to immediately. If you have further questions please contact Commodore Torquil Lamond for clarification.
II. The Traditions and Conventions of His Imperial Majesty's Fleet 5. Providing Testimony to an Imperial Adjudicator
When a particularly important or significant file proceeds to trial, members of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet may be called on to provide testimony. Tribunals of the Imperial Government are generally chaired by Imperial Adjudicators, selected from the Order of the Scales, a branch of the Church of Etoth. Imperial Adjudicators dedicate their lives to the preservation of law and justice, and are completely and indeed, divinely impartial in every respect. Imperial Adjudicators, are a member of the
judiciary in the Imperial Government, have an immense amount of reputation and political influence. Subsequently, they are to be rendered the appropriate amount of respect. Addressing an Imperial Adjudicator In any capacity, an Imperial Adjudicator shall be address as "Right Honourable Adjudicator". As an example, if a member is giving evidence in trial, they shall end their statement, or statements, with "Right Honourable Adjudicator", just as they would when replying to a superior officer with "sir" or "ma'am". They may also refer to an Imperial Adjudicator as "Your Honoured Excellency", or "Your Honoured Lordship". Imperial Adjudicators are to be bowed to, instead of the customary hand salute. Delivering Testimony If a member is called upon to deliver testimony or evidence, that member should be prepared. If the evidence is centred around a file they handled two months ago, they may not remember the facts of the incident. This is why the Incident and Arrest File is vitally important to the judiciary process. The member's notes, and his or her report, will be vital evidence. In essence, the member is not delivering his or her testimony, they are delivering the facts of the notes and report they filed following the incident. Members of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet should not be supplementing any facts not already given in evidence (the filed report or the member's notes). Members are permitted to carry and present a copy of their report or their notes pertaining to the incident. Lastly, and most importantly, members of His Imperial Majesty's Cerulean Fleet are required to behave and act in a manner that properly represents the Emperor. Answers and evidence are to be given with integrity and honesty. Improper or inaccurate testimony at an Adjudicator's Court may result in your permanent dismissal from the Fleet, or even a punishment including, but not limited to incarceration or death. If you have further questions please contact Commodore Torquil Lamond for clarification.