Post by Katherine on Jan 15, 2015 22:17:18 GMT
It has come to my attention that Mathias is also, or the sole, Scribe of House Cathmoore. Such a great House could certainly support two scribes and during my time of research and training, I have certainly have not been able to dedicate as much time to the duties of Scribe. Through training, I have also discovered that Scribe was an auxillary function of mine in the world that I have come from and I have luckily discovered other natural talents.
I would be honored to continue to assist House Cathhmoore as I can with my talents in this area, including but not limited to, assisting Mathias with his duties and again deeply apologize for not going above and beyond in this area.
In honor,
Aasha Cathmoore
---
In order to preserve the history of the House, I will scribe the information that I have, here. Whatever lies ahead, I intend for us to go forth with honor, integrity, order and allegiance.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
House Colors
Tabards shall be check quartered, purple on the wearer's left at the top.
Privates in the Guard and others of no particular rank within the House shall wear white as the other check on tabards, which shall be worn when on duty, and they shall wear purple and white when representing the House when not on duty. They shall not wear accents of gold.
Sergeants in the Guard and others of middle station within the House shall wear tabards as privates, but crossed with gold to denote their rank. They shall also wear these tabards when on duty. Purple and white shall predominate when they represent the House, though accents of gold may be worn to represent their elevated status.
Lieutenants in the Guard, Squires, and officers of the House may wear either colors or tabards when on duty. Their tabards shall be as the sergeants' tabards, but shall also be bordered in gold. When wearing colors, they may wear gold as a predominant color, so long as purple and white are also both well-represented. They may not balance purple and gold equally.
Knights may wear either tabards or colors when speaking for the House. Their tabards are purple checked with gold, barred and bordered in white. When wearing colors, they may balance purple and gold equally.
No member of the house may wear green unless awarded honors at their current rank for exceptional service to the House. These honors will denote either a single outstanding action, such as the defeat of a terrible enemy or the completion of a great task that benefits the House, or the cumulative effect of dilligent and persistent service. When this honor is awarded, it will replace the check on the wearer's upper right. Only one person at any of the four stations within the House will carry these honors at any one time, and should it be awarded to someone at a time when someone else of that station already bears the honors, that person who already bore the honors will surrender it to the new holder. Therefore, only the most recently honored person at any given station will be entitled to display the color green.
The rank of Scribe and the rank of House Physician are equal to that of Squire.
~Aasha
---
An obviously historical document...
Plans for The House and Information Regarding:
While Gilliante is indeed a Cathmoore, he is not my Knight. Dame Avalon speaks for me, and what she says in that capacity may be taken as my word. Should she be absent, first my own squire then hers may speak for the House, but with limited power. The constable speaks to all issues of the Lord's peace, the magistrate to issues of the Lord's justice, and the Lieutenant of the Guard (the Knight Marshall is the Captain of the Guard). In all matters of domestic prosperity and diplomacy, the Castellan may speak for me. In any matter when my superiors directly involve themselves, everyone in my House and Manor are expected to obey them as I do. In matters of specialization, anyone of sufficient rank within the Kingdom is not to be undermined. For example, opposing Guardian Denison on matters pertaining to the Elements is not only unwise with regard to your personal survival, it will bring my wrath as well.
The camp will be on the road coming into town in the open field. I plan to reinforce it with eldritch structures. We may eventually build a palisade there as well. We will have a large tent which will serve as the great hall in Dragon's Hearth, which will serve court and all guests and members of the House.
All Members of the House are considered to be part of the House Guard, though the level of their involvement may vary dramatically. All who shelter within the House may be called to join it temporarily. Those within the House are also encouraged to volunteer to join the Guard. Everyone who lives within the Manor is subject to being called up to join the Militia temporarily. Members of the House Guard pay their personal taxes through their service. Militia members may receive a small stipend or equipment. The true advantage of being part of the militia, though lies in keeping our homes safe. Likewise, those who guard the House help keep us all safe. The army is a separate command altogether.
The House colors are actually purple, green, gold, and white. Members of different station will have the purple, gold, and white in different patterns, but green will carry a special honor when someone is wearing the colors of the House. I am already in contact with Avalon about the work.
Snowflake is not particularly dangerous, as long as you treat her well. I do anticipate some conflict with her, but with Cobbs around to look after her, I think any actual danger can be avoided.
The Fire Giants are extremely dangerous, but, like Snowflake, as long as we deal with them on their own terms they shouldn't be an impossible issue. What is behind them concerns me more.
Protection of the Fox is a high priority, and finding their shaman and destroying those responsible for her disappearance is imperative. However, I believe this is not the Black Guard, as you call them, but rather is in connection to the children who have disappeared.
Darkness is not our enemy, but evil things move in Darkness, just as they do in Light. Our concern should be discovering and rooting out the evil.
When we get that scroll, we should take care of the wolves.
Right now the House has no wizard, no healer, and no historian, and I'm sure that we will create other posts as well.
---
In Regards to those Of the House and those In the House:
"To the Diligent Lord Michael,
I am continuing to identify those who have taken the Castellan's Oath and those that have taken the Lord's Oath. The going is very slowly and I understand that it is a very important process. It is important for record keeping as well as to see what resources the House has to fill its positions and to see where it needs to recruit, if necessary. I have a suggestion for your consideration that would streamline the process, bring public attention to it, and bring recognition to those that have been honored by taking the Castellan’s Oath and the Lord’s Oath. My suggestion is to publically proclaim the newest members of the House, Dr. Klaus and myself, and to present us with perhaps a token of the House colors at court. At that time you could ask those that are present that have taken the Castellan’s Oath to come forward to receive their token and those that have taken the Lord’s Oath to come forward and receive their token. Also, if you have an idea of those that you believe to haven taken Oaths, if you could provide me with a list I would be more than happy to seek them out to confirm their Oath and their current standing in the Kingdom.
Could you please tell me what status in regards to the House you believe these notable members of Dragon’s Hearth to have:
Gilliante, Cloch, Nico, Azlynn, Amon Wit, Mackenzie, Teehee Tummy Tums, Mathias, Gillante’s Son, Panther daDannan
Also, do you know the whereabouts of the House Historian, Shade? I have not received correspondence from him in quite some time. If you do not know, I will spend time inquiring about this.
In conclusion:
Please consider my proposal to streamline the process of recording who is in or of the House. If you enjoy this idea, please think of options for the tokens to present as I will be able to assist you in creating or obtaining them.
Please look over the list of town members that I have provided and inform me if you have knowledge of their status in regards to the House.
Please inform me if you have had contact with Historian Shade or know of his whereabouts.
In Service,
Aasha "
---
Copy of the Manor Laws, with notes:
**Manor** Town of Dragon’s Hearth Laws
HIGH CRIMES: **Why are these high crimes (“Because of the severity and grave offence that these acts represent…”? What is the punishment for high crimes?)**
Necromancy **define Necromancy, “Magic of the inverted cycle” (?) “Raising undead” (?)**
-Casting necromancy magic is not allowed
-Items of necromancy must be reported and destroyed **Reported to whom? (Lord Michael, the Constable, the Castellan, the head of the Healer’s Guild?) Destroyed how and who can act as witness to the destruction? Is there any compensation by the manor for destroying such an item other than not breaking the law? What if one does not know an item is necromantic, should all items be identified as soon as possible?**
-Transforms of necromancy must be reported and removed **Should examinations be done periodically? What if one does not know of a transform?**
**Any laws against aiding, abetting, consorting, with undead/necromancers?**
Treason to the Kingdom **define treason (a crime that undermines the offender's government , disloyalty by virtue of subversive behavior , treachery: an act of deliberate betrayal) (?)**
Murder (of people of the Kingdom, town or under protection of such) **How do you know who are people of the town vs. for example, bandits? Is there a self-defense clause?**
Subsuming of free will **define “subsume” (to contain or include; or consider (an instance of something) as part of a general rule or principle) (
?)**
-Enslavement, charming or **(purposeful?)** memory alteration
-through any means, magical, alchemical or** other (give examples of what “other” ways?)**
Any minor crime of sufficient severity or frequency (as to be determined by whom?)
MINOR CRIMES: **what is the punishment for minor crimes? Are the punishments different for each crime?**
Assault
-not leading to death **(agreeing to participate in full-contact drilling activities would, I assume, exempt one from from this)**
-on people of Kingdom, town or under protection of such** (again, how would one know that the person is under protection? What if the person is under protection but is also a bandit? Etc?)**
Theft **(“theft is the illegal taking of another person's property without that person's freely-given consent”) What is the difference between “theft” and “looting” ?**
Tax Evasion **(what is the current tax status? “Once a month the Chamberlain will collect 10 silver from every person present in Dragon’s Hearth Manor, to be paid by sundown on the last market day.” ?)**
Vandalism **(“willful wanton and malicious destruction of the property of others”) What is the difference between vandalism and ransacking/destroying a threat like, for example, a fortification or a fire node?)**
---
DEOCRUM:
Lord Michael has asked me to assist him in reminding those of the House of a great sense of decorum, so that the members of the House may teach those of the Manor.
While enjoying some tea this morning, I began writing. I must have read extensively on the subject at some time in my past, so wish to share my research. I have chosen to begin with greetings and introductions, as I noticed that many were quite unclear on the protocol for this when I arrived in town, and I was required to introduce myself to many of the manor. Following introductions and forms of address are table manners that are to be expected in polite company. Please be reminded of these manners that you no doubtly employ, as it is very important to lead by example in such social situations, and those that have not encountered these social situations in the past may need more direct instruction than observation of you alone.
INTRODUCTIONS and GREETINGS:
-Removing one’s hat in the presence of social superiors shows manners.
-It is the gentleman’s responsibility to introduce himself to a woman, as it is his pleasure to meet her. If a lady must introduce herself, politely extending her hand as an invitation to introduction with perhaps the phrase of “If it pleases you,” to fully convey the meaning of the situation. The gentleman should then take her hand, introduce himself and ask for her introduction.
- It is the gentleman’s responsibility to affect a kiss on her hand, since he is the one being honored by the lady.
FORMS OF ADDRESS:
-Sir goes only with a man's given name. To address a knight using only his surname, say Master (for example, by protocol, Sir Cloch is appropriate)
-Lord implies a peerage whether temporal (baron or better). (Lord Michael Catmoore is the only noble of this title)
- It is best not to say "My Lord" to anyone not so entitled. (Nor to refer to a female as "My Lady" or "Lady" if she is not so entitled. To show respect for one's personage, it is permissible to adress one such as Aasha as Miss Aasha, Scribe Aasha, Goodwoman Aasha, but NEVER Lady Aasha.)
-The children of a knight, baron, or viscount have no titles at all other than Master and Mistress.
-All the sons of a marquis or a duke are styled lord.
-Your Grace belongs properly only to royal blood: the queen, dukes, and visiting princesses.
-The style of Honourable or Right Honourable for younger sons and daughters of peers is permissible.
-Peers, however, often receive dedications in a form such as "the right Honourable the Lord Chandos".
-Esquires are the younger sons of peers, the heirs male of knights, esquires of the body, and officials such as judges, sheriffs, and officers of the royal household. Esquire is not actually a title, although it may be used after a gentleman's surname; as, William More, Esquire.
-The term "gentles" should be reserved for those who are of gentle birth: nobles, knights, and their descendants (with or without titles). To address a crowd, say "good folk" or "good people" or some such thing, but not "good gentles".
-The "gentry" are un-titled landholders, who come from noble families. In particular, they are descendents of younger sons of the nobility.
-"Gentility" has to do with land owning and ancestry, not good manners, though manners may be considered a mark of gentility.
-Only those of gentle birth are addressed as Master and Mistress.
---
TABLE MANNERS:
-When seated, you should give the right hand seat to someone you wish to honor, and when a guest, you should insist on the left hand seat so as to honor your host.
-Guests are to be led into the dining chamber in order of precedence. In a great hall, seats are generally usually laid out in a U-shape, with the lord at the base of the shape. The most honored position was to the right of the lord, and the lowest at the bottom of the tables to the left of the lord.
-It is important to wash hands before a meal. This might be done on the way into the hall, at a ewery board. Servants might also bring a ewer and basin around to the guests to wash their hands. The servants themselves, particularly the carver and sewer, visibly washed their hands as well. Gramercy is then said before the meal is served.
A list of important details to keep in mind when dining in the company of others:
Keep your hands and nails clean.
Keep your knife clean and sharp.
Cut your meat into small pieces and don't hack it into great gobbets.
Cut your bread with your knife, and don't tear it in great hunks.
Never put the meat into the salt cellar. Keeping the salt cellar clean is very important. You should take a little salt on the tip of clean knife and put it on your food. Never put spilled, dirty salt back in the cellar.
Do not leave your spoon in the dish when you are done with your pottage. Do not overfill the spoon and definitely do not spill it on the cloth. Do not slurp your soup.
Keep the cloth as clean as possible.
Empty and wipe your mouth before drinking.
Do not throw your bones on the floor, but put them in a voiding bowl.
If food is dropped on the floor pick it up but do not eat it.
Do not stroke cats and dogs at the table.
Do not stuff your mouth, pick your teeth, make rude noises, scratch yourself, blow on your food, spit in the washing basin or across the table, spit up food into your dish, talk with your mouth full, or fall asleep at the table.
Do not put your elbows on the table.
Clean your hands with a napkin, do not lick them.
---
TIDING OF DRAGON'S HEARTH MANOR:
May Light shine on your Path
and show your feet the way of Truth.
May Honor glow in your heart
and lead your spirit in The Course of Right.
BENEDICTION OF DRAGON'S HEARTH MANOR:
Go with Honor toward your Sworn,
Charity for your lessers, and
Justice for your fellows.
May Sagacity rule your mind,
Prudence watch your path,
Temperance guide your hand, and
Resolution spur your spirit.
Truth be your home,
Liberality your cup,
Diligence your crook,
Hope your stead and
Valor your Measure.
---
The Updated Hierarchy of Dragon's Hearth:
In the absence of the Lord, the Knight is in charge.
*In absence of Lord Michael, Sir Cloch is in charge.
If there is no Knight, then a Guard Lieutenant or Squire may take command.
*If Sir Cloch is not available, a Squire, Guard Lieutenant (which we currently do not have) or one with rank equal to Squire may take command. If Sir Cloch is not available, Scribe Aasha will take command.
These ranks, however, do not speak for the House, but may only enforce the will of the Lord as they personally know it to have been expressed.
Failing the presence of a Lieutenant or Squire, a Sergeant or other of similar rank may take charge. The Constable is one such rank.
*The last known Constable of Dragon's Hearth was Hart. However, Cork Kinallen has been named Corporeal of House Cathmoore, and might be able to act in this rank for these purposes.
Should no one of rank be present, then those who remain should choose from among themselves a leader. Those who are of the House should take precedence over those who are merely in it. Should none who are of the House be present, then one who is part of the Guard as a private holds rank over one who is not.
Anyone wearing the honors of their rank will always be slightly elevated over those who do not.
If anyone has question regarding their standing within the House, they may address it to Lord Cathmoore and he will endeavor to answer it.
---
Castellan’s Oath:
I will be faithful to the Lord, never cause him harm and will observe my homage to him completely against all persons in good faith and without deceit. As the tides to the moon, my will to yours, my liege. I pledge my fealty to you.
Answer:
I will protect the interest of you, my vassal, and look to your prosperity. You shall be as one who dwells within the house, sheltered from the storm. I swear to repay loyalty with love, service with honor, and oath breaking with vengeance.
Lord’s Oath:
I will to my Lord be true and faithful, and love all which he loves and shun all which he shuns. As the tides to the moon, my will to yours, my liege. I pledge my fealty to you.
Answer:
I take you as my vassal. You are of my house, as the very stones. I pledge to hold you, to guard you, to keep you. I swear to repay loyalty with love, service with honor and oath breaking with vengeance. As the moon to the seas below, my will to yours. I pledge to hold you from escheat.
---
Isn't Sir Cloch the Knight and I am the one close to the rank of Sergeant? Just making sure hehehe.
---
You are correct with Sir Cloch. That document is outdated and needs to be revised. Thank you for bringing this to my attention. On the field, a Lt. would be next in line for command, however there is not a Lt. at this time, so you would be next. If you are not there, I would be in command. Off the field, however, Ulrik holds a rank equal to Knight, and I hold a rank equal to Lt, so therefor we would both outrank you off the field.
---
Actually, as a Scribe, which is a civil equivalent to a Lieutenant Military, you are below a Lieutenant but above a Sergeant on the field. Off the field, you are below a Knight but above a Lieutenant.
-C
---
Thank you for the correction.
---
Here is what I believe to be the most updated and accurate description. If there are any discrepancies, please let me know immediately.
HIERARCHY OF COMMAND:
1. Lord Michael Cathmoore is the Lord of Dragon’s Hearth.
2. In the absence of the Lord, the Knight is in charge. Sir Cloch Kinallen Cathmoore is The Knight.
3. In the absence of The Knight in the field, one of a military rank of Guard Lieutenant or Squire may take command. There is currently no one of this military rank.
4. If there is no one of the Guard Lieutenant or Squire military rank, one with a civil equivalent may take command. This would be Scribe Aasha. (These ranks, however, do not speak for the House, but may only enforce the will of the Lord as they personally know it to have been expressed.)
5. In the absence of someone with a civil equivalent to Guard Lieutenant or Squire, a Sergeant or other of similar rank may take charge. The Constable (a position that is open), the Corporal or The Bottlebearer of The House would be appropriate of this rank. Cork Kinallen Cathmoore is both the Corporal and Bottlebearer of The House.
6. Should no one of rank be present, then those who remain should choose from among themselves a leader. Those who are of the House should take precedence over those who are merely in it. Should none who are of the House be present, then one who is part of the Guard as a private holds rank over one who is not.
*Anyone wearing the honors of their rank will always be slightly elevated over those who do not.
In summary
On the field: Lord Cathmoore, Sir Cloch Kinallen Cathmoore, Ulrik, Aasha, Cork
Off the field: Lord Cathmoore, Sir Cloch Kinallen Cathmoore, Ulrik, Aasha, Cork
I would be honored to continue to assist House Cathhmoore as I can with my talents in this area, including but not limited to, assisting Mathias with his duties and again deeply apologize for not going above and beyond in this area.
In honor,
Aasha Cathmoore
---
In order to preserve the history of the House, I will scribe the information that I have, here. Whatever lies ahead, I intend for us to go forth with honor, integrity, order and allegiance.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
House Colors
Tabards shall be check quartered, purple on the wearer's left at the top.
Privates in the Guard and others of no particular rank within the House shall wear white as the other check on tabards, which shall be worn when on duty, and they shall wear purple and white when representing the House when not on duty. They shall not wear accents of gold.
Sergeants in the Guard and others of middle station within the House shall wear tabards as privates, but crossed with gold to denote their rank. They shall also wear these tabards when on duty. Purple and white shall predominate when they represent the House, though accents of gold may be worn to represent their elevated status.
Lieutenants in the Guard, Squires, and officers of the House may wear either colors or tabards when on duty. Their tabards shall be as the sergeants' tabards, but shall also be bordered in gold. When wearing colors, they may wear gold as a predominant color, so long as purple and white are also both well-represented. They may not balance purple and gold equally.
Knights may wear either tabards or colors when speaking for the House. Their tabards are purple checked with gold, barred and bordered in white. When wearing colors, they may balance purple and gold equally.
No member of the house may wear green unless awarded honors at their current rank for exceptional service to the House. These honors will denote either a single outstanding action, such as the defeat of a terrible enemy or the completion of a great task that benefits the House, or the cumulative effect of dilligent and persistent service. When this honor is awarded, it will replace the check on the wearer's upper right. Only one person at any of the four stations within the House will carry these honors at any one time, and should it be awarded to someone at a time when someone else of that station already bears the honors, that person who already bore the honors will surrender it to the new holder. Therefore, only the most recently honored person at any given station will be entitled to display the color green.
The rank of Scribe and the rank of House Physician are equal to that of Squire.
~Aasha
---
An obviously historical document...
Plans for The House and Information Regarding:
While Gilliante is indeed a Cathmoore, he is not my Knight. Dame Avalon speaks for me, and what she says in that capacity may be taken as my word. Should she be absent, first my own squire then hers may speak for the House, but with limited power. The constable speaks to all issues of the Lord's peace, the magistrate to issues of the Lord's justice, and the Lieutenant of the Guard (the Knight Marshall is the Captain of the Guard). In all matters of domestic prosperity and diplomacy, the Castellan may speak for me. In any matter when my superiors directly involve themselves, everyone in my House and Manor are expected to obey them as I do. In matters of specialization, anyone of sufficient rank within the Kingdom is not to be undermined. For example, opposing Guardian Denison on matters pertaining to the Elements is not only unwise with regard to your personal survival, it will bring my wrath as well.
The camp will be on the road coming into town in the open field. I plan to reinforce it with eldritch structures. We may eventually build a palisade there as well. We will have a large tent which will serve as the great hall in Dragon's Hearth, which will serve court and all guests and members of the House.
All Members of the House are considered to be part of the House Guard, though the level of their involvement may vary dramatically. All who shelter within the House may be called to join it temporarily. Those within the House are also encouraged to volunteer to join the Guard. Everyone who lives within the Manor is subject to being called up to join the Militia temporarily. Members of the House Guard pay their personal taxes through their service. Militia members may receive a small stipend or equipment. The true advantage of being part of the militia, though lies in keeping our homes safe. Likewise, those who guard the House help keep us all safe. The army is a separate command altogether.
The House colors are actually purple, green, gold, and white. Members of different station will have the purple, gold, and white in different patterns, but green will carry a special honor when someone is wearing the colors of the House. I am already in contact with Avalon about the work.
Snowflake is not particularly dangerous, as long as you treat her well. I do anticipate some conflict with her, but with Cobbs around to look after her, I think any actual danger can be avoided.
The Fire Giants are extremely dangerous, but, like Snowflake, as long as we deal with them on their own terms they shouldn't be an impossible issue. What is behind them concerns me more.
Protection of the Fox is a high priority, and finding their shaman and destroying those responsible for her disappearance is imperative. However, I believe this is not the Black Guard, as you call them, but rather is in connection to the children who have disappeared.
Darkness is not our enemy, but evil things move in Darkness, just as they do in Light. Our concern should be discovering and rooting out the evil.
When we get that scroll, we should take care of the wolves.
Right now the House has no wizard, no healer, and no historian, and I'm sure that we will create other posts as well.
---
In Regards to those Of the House and those In the House:
"To the Diligent Lord Michael,
I am continuing to identify those who have taken the Castellan's Oath and those that have taken the Lord's Oath. The going is very slowly and I understand that it is a very important process. It is important for record keeping as well as to see what resources the House has to fill its positions and to see where it needs to recruit, if necessary. I have a suggestion for your consideration that would streamline the process, bring public attention to it, and bring recognition to those that have been honored by taking the Castellan’s Oath and the Lord’s Oath. My suggestion is to publically proclaim the newest members of the House, Dr. Klaus and myself, and to present us with perhaps a token of the House colors at court. At that time you could ask those that are present that have taken the Castellan’s Oath to come forward to receive their token and those that have taken the Lord’s Oath to come forward and receive their token. Also, if you have an idea of those that you believe to haven taken Oaths, if you could provide me with a list I would be more than happy to seek them out to confirm their Oath and their current standing in the Kingdom.
Could you please tell me what status in regards to the House you believe these notable members of Dragon’s Hearth to have:
Gilliante, Cloch, Nico, Azlynn, Amon Wit, Mackenzie, Teehee Tummy Tums, Mathias, Gillante’s Son, Panther daDannan
Also, do you know the whereabouts of the House Historian, Shade? I have not received correspondence from him in quite some time. If you do not know, I will spend time inquiring about this.
In conclusion:
Please consider my proposal to streamline the process of recording who is in or of the House. If you enjoy this idea, please think of options for the tokens to present as I will be able to assist you in creating or obtaining them.
Please look over the list of town members that I have provided and inform me if you have knowledge of their status in regards to the House.
Please inform me if you have had contact with Historian Shade or know of his whereabouts.
In Service,
Aasha "
---
Copy of the Manor Laws, with notes:
**Manor** Town of Dragon’s Hearth Laws
HIGH CRIMES: **Why are these high crimes (“Because of the severity and grave offence that these acts represent…”? What is the punishment for high crimes?)**
Necromancy **define Necromancy, “Magic of the inverted cycle” (?) “Raising undead” (?)**
-Casting necromancy magic is not allowed
-Items of necromancy must be reported and destroyed **Reported to whom? (Lord Michael, the Constable, the Castellan, the head of the Healer’s Guild?) Destroyed how and who can act as witness to the destruction? Is there any compensation by the manor for destroying such an item other than not breaking the law? What if one does not know an item is necromantic, should all items be identified as soon as possible?**
-Transforms of necromancy must be reported and removed **Should examinations be done periodically? What if one does not know of a transform?**
**Any laws against aiding, abetting, consorting, with undead/necromancers?**
Treason to the Kingdom **define treason (a crime that undermines the offender's government , disloyalty by virtue of subversive behavior , treachery: an act of deliberate betrayal) (?)**
Murder (of people of the Kingdom, town or under protection of such) **How do you know who are people of the town vs. for example, bandits? Is there a self-defense clause?**
Subsuming of free will **define “subsume” (to contain or include; or consider (an instance of something) as part of a general rule or principle) (
?)**-Enslavement, charming or **(purposeful?)** memory alteration
-through any means, magical, alchemical or** other (give examples of what “other” ways?)**
Any minor crime of sufficient severity or frequency (as to be determined by whom?)
MINOR CRIMES: **what is the punishment for minor crimes? Are the punishments different for each crime?**
Assault
-not leading to death **(agreeing to participate in full-contact drilling activities would, I assume, exempt one from from this)**
-on people of Kingdom, town or under protection of such** (again, how would one know that the person is under protection? What if the person is under protection but is also a bandit? Etc?)**
Theft **(“theft is the illegal taking of another person's property without that person's freely-given consent”) What is the difference between “theft” and “looting” ?**
Tax Evasion **(what is the current tax status? “Once a month the Chamberlain will collect 10 silver from every person present in Dragon’s Hearth Manor, to be paid by sundown on the last market day.” ?)**
Vandalism **(“willful wanton and malicious destruction of the property of others”) What is the difference between vandalism and ransacking/destroying a threat like, for example, a fortification or a fire node?)**
---
DEOCRUM:
Lord Michael has asked me to assist him in reminding those of the House of a great sense of decorum, so that the members of the House may teach those of the Manor.
While enjoying some tea this morning, I began writing. I must have read extensively on the subject at some time in my past, so wish to share my research. I have chosen to begin with greetings and introductions, as I noticed that many were quite unclear on the protocol for this when I arrived in town, and I was required to introduce myself to many of the manor. Following introductions and forms of address are table manners that are to be expected in polite company. Please be reminded of these manners that you no doubtly employ, as it is very important to lead by example in such social situations, and those that have not encountered these social situations in the past may need more direct instruction than observation of you alone.
INTRODUCTIONS and GREETINGS:
-Removing one’s hat in the presence of social superiors shows manners.
-It is the gentleman’s responsibility to introduce himself to a woman, as it is his pleasure to meet her. If a lady must introduce herself, politely extending her hand as an invitation to introduction with perhaps the phrase of “If it pleases you,” to fully convey the meaning of the situation. The gentleman should then take her hand, introduce himself and ask for her introduction.
- It is the gentleman’s responsibility to affect a kiss on her hand, since he is the one being honored by the lady.
FORMS OF ADDRESS:
-Sir goes only with a man's given name. To address a knight using only his surname, say Master (for example, by protocol, Sir Cloch is appropriate)
-Lord implies a peerage whether temporal (baron or better). (Lord Michael Catmoore is the only noble of this title)
- It is best not to say "My Lord" to anyone not so entitled. (Nor to refer to a female as "My Lady" or "Lady" if she is not so entitled. To show respect for one's personage, it is permissible to adress one such as Aasha as Miss Aasha, Scribe Aasha, Goodwoman Aasha, but NEVER Lady Aasha.)
-The children of a knight, baron, or viscount have no titles at all other than Master and Mistress.
-All the sons of a marquis or a duke are styled lord.
-Your Grace belongs properly only to royal blood: the queen, dukes, and visiting princesses.
-The style of Honourable or Right Honourable for younger sons and daughters of peers is permissible.
-Peers, however, often receive dedications in a form such as "the right Honourable the Lord Chandos".
-Esquires are the younger sons of peers, the heirs male of knights, esquires of the body, and officials such as judges, sheriffs, and officers of the royal household. Esquire is not actually a title, although it may be used after a gentleman's surname; as, William More, Esquire.
-The term "gentles" should be reserved for those who are of gentle birth: nobles, knights, and their descendants (with or without titles). To address a crowd, say "good folk" or "good people" or some such thing, but not "good gentles".
-The "gentry" are un-titled landholders, who come from noble families. In particular, they are descendents of younger sons of the nobility.
-"Gentility" has to do with land owning and ancestry, not good manners, though manners may be considered a mark of gentility.
-Only those of gentle birth are addressed as Master and Mistress.
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TABLE MANNERS:
-When seated, you should give the right hand seat to someone you wish to honor, and when a guest, you should insist on the left hand seat so as to honor your host.
-Guests are to be led into the dining chamber in order of precedence. In a great hall, seats are generally usually laid out in a U-shape, with the lord at the base of the shape. The most honored position was to the right of the lord, and the lowest at the bottom of the tables to the left of the lord.
-It is important to wash hands before a meal. This might be done on the way into the hall, at a ewery board. Servants might also bring a ewer and basin around to the guests to wash their hands. The servants themselves, particularly the carver and sewer, visibly washed their hands as well. Gramercy is then said before the meal is served.
A list of important details to keep in mind when dining in the company of others:
Keep your hands and nails clean.
Keep your knife clean and sharp.
Cut your meat into small pieces and don't hack it into great gobbets.
Cut your bread with your knife, and don't tear it in great hunks.
Never put the meat into the salt cellar. Keeping the salt cellar clean is very important. You should take a little salt on the tip of clean knife and put it on your food. Never put spilled, dirty salt back in the cellar.
Do not leave your spoon in the dish when you are done with your pottage. Do not overfill the spoon and definitely do not spill it on the cloth. Do not slurp your soup.
Keep the cloth as clean as possible.
Empty and wipe your mouth before drinking.
Do not throw your bones on the floor, but put them in a voiding bowl.
If food is dropped on the floor pick it up but do not eat it.
Do not stroke cats and dogs at the table.
Do not stuff your mouth, pick your teeth, make rude noises, scratch yourself, blow on your food, spit in the washing basin or across the table, spit up food into your dish, talk with your mouth full, or fall asleep at the table.
Do not put your elbows on the table.
Clean your hands with a napkin, do not lick them.
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TIDING OF DRAGON'S HEARTH MANOR:
May Light shine on your Path
and show your feet the way of Truth.
May Honor glow in your heart
and lead your spirit in The Course of Right.
BENEDICTION OF DRAGON'S HEARTH MANOR:
Go with Honor toward your Sworn,
Charity for your lessers, and
Justice for your fellows.
May Sagacity rule your mind,
Prudence watch your path,
Temperance guide your hand, and
Resolution spur your spirit.
Truth be your home,
Liberality your cup,
Diligence your crook,
Hope your stead and
Valor your Measure.
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The Updated Hierarchy of Dragon's Hearth:
In the absence of the Lord, the Knight is in charge.
*In absence of Lord Michael, Sir Cloch is in charge.
If there is no Knight, then a Guard Lieutenant or Squire may take command.
*If Sir Cloch is not available, a Squire, Guard Lieutenant (which we currently do not have) or one with rank equal to Squire may take command. If Sir Cloch is not available, Scribe Aasha will take command.
These ranks, however, do not speak for the House, but may only enforce the will of the Lord as they personally know it to have been expressed.
Failing the presence of a Lieutenant or Squire, a Sergeant or other of similar rank may take charge. The Constable is one such rank.
*The last known Constable of Dragon's Hearth was Hart. However, Cork Kinallen has been named Corporeal of House Cathmoore, and might be able to act in this rank for these purposes.
Should no one of rank be present, then those who remain should choose from among themselves a leader. Those who are of the House should take precedence over those who are merely in it. Should none who are of the House be present, then one who is part of the Guard as a private holds rank over one who is not.
Anyone wearing the honors of their rank will always be slightly elevated over those who do not.
If anyone has question regarding their standing within the House, they may address it to Lord Cathmoore and he will endeavor to answer it.
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Castellan’s Oath:
I will be faithful to the Lord, never cause him harm and will observe my homage to him completely against all persons in good faith and without deceit. As the tides to the moon, my will to yours, my liege. I pledge my fealty to you.
Answer:
I will protect the interest of you, my vassal, and look to your prosperity. You shall be as one who dwells within the house, sheltered from the storm. I swear to repay loyalty with love, service with honor, and oath breaking with vengeance.
Lord’s Oath:
I will to my Lord be true and faithful, and love all which he loves and shun all which he shuns. As the tides to the moon, my will to yours, my liege. I pledge my fealty to you.
Answer:
I take you as my vassal. You are of my house, as the very stones. I pledge to hold you, to guard you, to keep you. I swear to repay loyalty with love, service with honor and oath breaking with vengeance. As the moon to the seas below, my will to yours. I pledge to hold you from escheat.
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Isn't Sir Cloch the Knight and I am the one close to the rank of Sergeant? Just making sure hehehe.
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You are correct with Sir Cloch. That document is outdated and needs to be revised. Thank you for bringing this to my attention. On the field, a Lt. would be next in line for command, however there is not a Lt. at this time, so you would be next. If you are not there, I would be in command. Off the field, however, Ulrik holds a rank equal to Knight, and I hold a rank equal to Lt, so therefor we would both outrank you off the field.
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Actually, as a Scribe, which is a civil equivalent to a Lieutenant Military, you are below a Lieutenant but above a Sergeant on the field. Off the field, you are below a Knight but above a Lieutenant.
-C
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Thank you for the correction.
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Here is what I believe to be the most updated and accurate description. If there are any discrepancies, please let me know immediately.
HIERARCHY OF COMMAND:
1. Lord Michael Cathmoore is the Lord of Dragon’s Hearth.
2. In the absence of the Lord, the Knight is in charge. Sir Cloch Kinallen Cathmoore is The Knight.
3. In the absence of The Knight in the field, one of a military rank of Guard Lieutenant or Squire may take command. There is currently no one of this military rank.
4. If there is no one of the Guard Lieutenant or Squire military rank, one with a civil equivalent may take command. This would be Scribe Aasha. (These ranks, however, do not speak for the House, but may only enforce the will of the Lord as they personally know it to have been expressed.)
5. In the absence of someone with a civil equivalent to Guard Lieutenant or Squire, a Sergeant or other of similar rank may take charge. The Constable (a position that is open), the Corporal or The Bottlebearer of The House would be appropriate of this rank. Cork Kinallen Cathmoore is both the Corporal and Bottlebearer of The House.
6. Should no one of rank be present, then those who remain should choose from among themselves a leader. Those who are of the House should take precedence over those who are merely in it. Should none who are of the House be present, then one who is part of the Guard as a private holds rank over one who is not.
*Anyone wearing the honors of their rank will always be slightly elevated over those who do not.
In summary
On the field: Lord Cathmoore, Sir Cloch Kinallen Cathmoore, Ulrik, Aasha, Cork
Off the field: Lord Cathmoore, Sir Cloch Kinallen Cathmoore, Ulrik, Aasha, Cork
