Zodiac Corpora

Mission Statement

We, the members of the Zodiac Tribe, wish to create a space in which a person’s individual strengths are put to best use towards the shared glory and honor of themselves and those who stand with the tribe.

Iconography

Colors

The company colors shall be purple and black, trimmed in the color that represents the Modality of the individual.

Heraldry

Base

The base heraldry shall be a hollow, white, equilateral triangle on a black and/or purple field. The triangle, if displayed on a group, should be pointed up. If displayed on a person, it should be oriented as per their Triplicity.

Full

The full heraldry shall be a hollow, white, equilateral triangle refracting a single white line into lines of red, gold, and green on a black and/or purple field. The triangle, if displayed on a group, should be pointed up. If displayed on a person, it should be oriented as per their Triplicity.

Modalities

The body of Zodiac Tribe shall be made of three parts: the Succedent (fighters, red), Cadent (support, green), and Angular (leadership, gold). Membership in one Modality doesn’t preclude participation in the others; indeed it’s suggested that members should dabble in all three Modalities. It simply indicates their primary focus, and gives access to Achievements and positions of leadership otherwise unavailable to them.

The Succedent

Fighting is the Modality of the Succedent. Members of the Succedent should be available to fight in any combat scenario where they are present and not otherwise engaged, and should make an effort to show up to or host fighter practices. They should attain and maintain proper physical health, particularly concerning endurance, dexterity, and speed. They should demonstrate improvement both in skill and aptitude over time. They should become proficient in the Argo Navis, being able to follow the formations when they are called, and perform the shots when needed. They should be available, nay, eager to teach the other members in formations, shots, and improving physical attributes. Members of the Succedent should trim their company gear in red.

The Cadent

Service is the Modality of the Cadent. Members of the Cadent should be available to provide support for any combat scenario where they are present and not otherwise engaged, and should make an effort to show up to or host build gatherings and fighter practices. They should hone whatever skills of support they specialize in, including but not limited to equipment build and repair, preparing and making available food and drink, garb creation and repair, and providing a welcome camp for when the fighting is done. They should be available, nay, eager to teach the other members in the arts and sciences required to make the rest of the company look good, feel good, and be good. Members of the Cadent should trim their company gear in green.

The Angular

Leadership is the Modality of the Angular. Members of the Angular should be available to lead in any combat scenario where they are present and not otherwise engaged, and should make an effort to host build gatherings, fighter practices, and any other gathering of Zodiac Tribe. They should be as familiar with the Argo Navis as the Succedent, and as practiced in arts and sciences as the Cadent. They should take personal responsibility for anything that goes wrong and take none when things go right. They should know each member as well as they can and know where to put them to make them most effective for both the collective and themselves. They should practice both humility and delegation. They should always be able and willing to fight when they can and are needed, and serve when they can and are needed. Otherwise, they should be silent. They should be available, nay, eager to teach the other members the subtle art of leadership. Members of the Angular should trim their company gear in gold.

Membership Triplicity

Membership in Zodiac Tribe comes in four statuses, one for each element: Water, Earth, Air, and Fire. While all members are equal in value, each type provides more benefit than the last. None of those benefits extend to a person’s ability or right to be there. We are all siblings, and none is better than the other.

Water

Water are friends of the company, those who wish to fight with us, play with us, and share with us, but are prevented somehow from joining in any official capacity. Water have a responsibility to bring something to the relationship. They have a right to speak their mind, but get no vote in matters before the company. Water must comply with the Code of Conduct. Water cannot gain Houses. Water cannot sponsor Water. Water may wear the colors and the base heraldry with the tip to the bottom.

To gain status as a Water, an individual need only be recognized at a kingdom-level (or equivalent) event by a simple majority vote of those present of a request to friendship. The votes occurring in the first two events the individual asks don’t really count; the answer is automatically ‘no’. Essentially, you must ask three times. The vote at the third event will be tallied as normal, and a simple majority determines their induction as Water to the Zodiac Tribe. During the period between those events, they should be mindful of their actions and maintain strong bonds with members of the company.

Water have no Modality.

Earth

Earth are members who have been recruited, but have not yet earned membership into the company. Earth have a responsibility to demonstrate their usefulness and to get to know as many other members as they can. They have every right to speak their mind, but get no vote in matters before the company. Earth must comply with the Code of Conduct and demonstrate an adherence to the Traditions, both listed below. Earth cannot gain Houses. Earth cannot sponsor Earth. Earth may wear the colors, and the base heraldry, with the tip to the right.

To gain status as an Earth, an individual need only seek out a sponsor in the company. Any member (not an Earth) may take a single Earth at a time. This limit can be waived by special dispensation with a unanimous vote between the local leaders of each Modality. When their sponsor has accepted them, they begin a trial period starting the day their sponsor announces their status to the company. The period should continue for no less than six months and does not end until they’ve attended three kingdom-level events and have been voted in.

Upon sponsorship, the sponsor should immediately explain the Modalities and ask the Earth to declare their intended Modality. The sponsor should soon provide the Earth a braided cord of black, purple, and the color of their intended Modality, between six and twelve inches long, which may not include heraldry. The sponsor should announce the Earth to the company either globally or locally and see to their membership in any social media the company is engaged in. The sponsor should make it known during that announcement which Modality the Earth has chosen upon doing so and at their earliest convenience introduce them to leaders at all levels of that Modality.

During the trial period, the sponsor is responsible for the actions of the Earth and seeing that the Earth meets and gets to know as many members as possible. The sponsor is expected to ensure that the Earth is well-trained and sees to their duties to the Traditions. Any consequence for failure to uphold a Tradition should be levied by the sponsor.

Once the Earth has completed their trial period they become subject to a vote for induction. The vote must take place at a kingdom-level (or equivalent) event. The vote can take place at their third event, if it’s at least six months after their trial period began. The Earth must be in attendance. Before the vote, the members in attendance are encouraged to speak hard truths to the Earth, both good and bad. The vote itself is a simple majority vote between all present members with voting rights. The leader of the Modality for which the Earth has declared retains the power of veto, exercised (or not) before the vote takes place. Leaders are encouraged to only use the power of veto when clear and present conflicts of personality occur; where letting the Earth in would cause strife and disharmony in the population, or where questions of honor are concerned. Nobody should be denied due to a lack of skill as skill can be learned. As long as they demonstrate a willingness to learn. Members are encouraged to petition the Modality leader for a veto if they have deep, unresolvable personal issues with the Earth and that petition should be strongly considered. An attempt should be made to resolve the issue if possible.

If the veto is exercised or the vote is negative, the Earth loses their status as an Earth, and they must return their braid to their sponsor. They may try again but must go through the entire process again. They may choose a different Modality or the same and a different sponsor or the same. Regardless, they should be expected to work on whatever deficiency prevented their induction in the first place.

If the vote is positive, the Earth immediately gains the Air membership status, and gains all the rights and responsibilities thereof. They may, if able, petition for their first House during that phase of the meeting.

Air

Air are members who have been inducted but aren’t entirely beholden to the company, or have not yet demonstrated their full loyalty to the company. Air may maintain membership in other fighting companies. If they do, they are expected to split their time evenly between the companies. If they fight, they should fight for us a fair share of the time. If they serve, they should serve for us a fair share of the time. If they lead, they should lead for us a fair share of the time. Air may take Earths. They may speak freely and vote in meetings. Air may not vote on induction into Fire status. Air must comply with the Code of Conduct and are responsible for assuring the Traditions are upheld by Earths. They may earn Houses but are limited to a maximum of 8 (House of Scorpio). Air may hold a position of leadership of a Modality locally but only if a Fire member is not also running for the position. Air may wear the colors and the base heraldry, with the tip to the left.

Air shall retain their status for a period of at least a year and a day. During that time, if they seek to advance to Fire membership, they should demonstrate their loyalty in the following ways. First, they should not maintain membership in any other fighting company. Second, they should demonstrate an ability and willingness to attend gatherings, be they events, fighter practices, or build sessions. Third, they should demonstrate their ability and willingness to grow the family by taking an Earth. Finally, they should demonstrate their ability and willingness to assist their siblings by teaching their skills to others in the company whenever possible.

Once the Air has completed their year and a day, they may, at any kingdom-level event (or equivalent), petition the company for induction into the ranks of the Fire during an official meeting. The attending Fire members are then encouraged to say why they will vote as they intend to vote. The vote for induction is a simple majority vote between all attending Fire members and the leaders of each Modality (excepting the applicant, if they happen to be leading a Modality).

If the vote is negative, the Air loses no House or status. They may try again as they please, taking the response given to them to heart. They may sway the minds of those present in the interim.

If the vote is positive, the Air immediately gains the Fire membership status and gains all the rights and responsibilities thereof.

Fire

Fire are members who have demonstrated immutable loyalty to the company and the members thereof. They are dedicated both to the company and the game, and have demonstrated as much. Fire members may not maintain membership in other fighting companies. Fire may take Earths. They may speak freely and vote in meetings. Fire must comply with the Code of Conduct and are responsible for assuring the Traditions are upheld by Earths. They may earn Houses without limit. Fire may hold a position of leadership of a Modality either locally or globally. Fire may wear the colors and the full heraldry, with the tip to the top.

Founder

Founders are the individuals responsible for creating the company. They are immediately granted Fire status.

Fire members can be given the status of Founder in those circumstances where doing so will grow the company in a different kingdom. Doing so requires a unanimous vote between the existing Founders. The vote can occur at any time and place, both real and virtual, but all Founders must be in attendance. Typically, such votes should be for three individuals in a kingdom that does not yet have a Fractal of the company, each of a different Modality.

Founders may not identify themselves as a Founder with any Founder-specific symbol, color, or icon.

The initial Founders are Chibasama Ryúichiro (Angular), Vexon Voiderhönd (Succedent), and Galuria (Cadent).

Houses

Members have available to them a system of ranks, called Houses, meant to identify their advancement through the company and to promote service within the company. In those cases where seniority needs to be determined, House is the sole identifier, with the exception of Modality leadership, which trumps House.

Houses must be completed in order; you may not begin earning a House before the previous has been completed. Any counts or activities to earn a House do not count towards earning the next House with the same requirements. Order award requirements are the only exception; you may have earned the Order at any time.

Houses are only acknowledged at meetings at kingdom-level (or equivalent) events. It’s the responsibility of the individual to bring the matter before the meeting. The leader of their Modality may veto the motion, but otherwise no vote is required. Such a veto should only be used when reasonable questions of the validity of the claim are made or when questions about the honor of the individual are expressed. When those issues are addressed, the claimant may bring up the claim again as they please. Only one House may be gained at any given meeting.

Each House is represented by a specific symbol that should be displayed somewhere on the person who holds that House. It can be worn anywhere obvious.

1 Ares

Requirements

Any member who has attended at least three kingdom-level events (or equivalent) that involve at least one night and two days, three company gatherings, and has at least one 1st Order award may claim this House.

2 Taurus

Requirements

Any member who has made or procured, and wears regularly, garb of company colors with the appropriate trim and heraldry, and has at least one 2nd Order award may claim this House.

3 Gemini

Requirements

Any member who has ever acted in official capacity at their local park, either as an officer or at the behest of an officer, may claim this House.

4 Cancer

Requirements

Any member who has hosted at least three company gatherings with at least three members in attendance each, and has at least one 3rd Order award may claim this House.

5 Leo

Requirements

Any member who has attended at least six kingdom-level events that involve at least one night and two days, one inter-kingdom event that involves at least one night and two days, six company gatherings, and has at least one 4th Order award may claim this House.

6 Virgo

Requirements

Any member who has provided company-specific garb or full kits for three members, or has donated at least $300 worth of food, water, or event supplies or transportation to the company, and has at least one 5th Order award may claim this House.

7 Libra

Requirements

Any member who has acted in official capacity at their local park as an officer may claim this House.

8 Scorpio

Requirements

Any member who has hosted at least six company gatherings with at least six members in attendance each, and has at least one 6th Order award may claim this House.

9 Sagittarius

Requirements

Any member who has attended at least nine kingdom-level events that involve at least one night and two days, three inter-kingdom events that involve at least one night and two days, and nine company gatherings, and has at least one 7th Order award may claim this House.

10 Capricorn

Requirements

Any member who has provided company-specific garb or kits for six members, or has donated at least $600 worth of food, water, event supplies, or transportation to the company, and has at least one 8th Order award may claim this House.

11 Aquarius

Requirements

Any member who has acted in official capacity in their kingdom as an officer may claim this House.

12 Pisces

Requirements

Any member who has hosted at least nine company gatherings with at least nine members in attendance each, and has at least one 9th Order award may claim this House.

Stars

During each meeting, the leader of each Modality may give away one Honor, specific to their Modality. An Honor need not be specific to the receiving member’s Modality. When awarded, the leader should describe the activities that led to the award and praise the individual being awarded. The individual should be given a token to demonstrate their Honor. Leaders may not award themselves Honor, but global leaders may award local leaders.

Succedent

This Honor is awarded for excellence on the battlefield. It can be for prowess in melee, archery, support, magic, or for acts of valor, honor, or excellence. They should be the MVP of a recent battle.

The token should be a small embroidered patch, with a red star over purple in a white circle, whose diameter is ½ inch for local level events, 1 in. for kingdom events, and 2 in. for inter-kingdom events.

Cadent

This Honor is awarded for excellence in service. It can be for going above and beyond in seeing to the needs of the company (such as ensuring proper hydration, securing an excellent camp site, or seeing to injuries) or providing needed supplies (such as food, water, or gear). They should be the most valuable support asset of a recent (or current) event.

The token should be a small embroidered patch, with a green star over purple in a white circle, whose diameter is ½ inch for local level events, 1 in. for kingdom events, and 2 in. for inter-kingdom events.

Angular

This Honor is awarded for excellence in leadership. It can be given for clever battlefield tactics, effective use of formations from the Argo Novis, promoting harmony either on or off the battlefield, or promoting the company in the broader Amtgard community.

The token should be a small embroidered patch, with a gold star over purple in a white circle, whose diameter is ½ inch for local level events, 1 in. for kingdom events, and 2 in. for inter-kingdom events.

Achievements

Achievements are (often) Modality-specific awards that an individual can only earn once. Each Modality has its own Achievements which can only be earned by members of that Modality. Modality-specific Achievements can be given by the leader of the appropriate Modality. General Achievements can be given by any leader. Achievements can be awarded at any time. Achievements can be identified with a small, embroidered circle patch (1 in. diameter) which can be worn on garb or a belt favor. The border should either be white or match the Modality of the award. The company should maintain data files of the iconography for each Achievement. The Founders may, upon majority decision, add achievements at their discretion.

General

Recruiter

Successfully sponsored three Earths into membership.

Cord Snatcher

Was able to acquire the cord from an unwary Earth.

Succedent

Succedent Leader

Served as the Succedent Leader of a Fractal for a full term.

Succedent General

Served as the Succedent General at an event.

Succedent Lieutenant

Served as the Succedent Lieutenant at an event.

Succedent Host

Hosted a fighter practice at least once a week for a month.

Cadent

Cadent Leader

Served as Cadent Leader of a Fractal for a full term.

Cadent General

Served as Cadent General at an event.

Cadent Lieutenant

Served as Cadent Lieutenant at an event.

Cadent Host

Hosted a build or preparation session at least once a week for a month.

Angular

Angular Leader

Served as Angular Leader of a Fractal for a full term.

Angular General

Served as Angular General at an event.

Angular Lieutenant

Served as Angular Lieutenant at an event.

Angular Host

Hosted a gathering of any sort at least once a week for a month.

Fractals

Zodiac Tribe is organized at three levels or Fractals: Globally, Kingdom, and Locally. Each has separate leaders, and leaders of one cannot act as leaders of another. As the company grows these Fractals will become available. Each Fractal is considered subject to the higher, and only has purview over themselves and their subordinate Fractals. Rulings from higher Fractals should be honored without reservation, but can be appealed by vote of the leaders of the same Fractal under their collective higher Fractal. For instance, if a Local park disagrees with a ruling from the Kingdom Fractal, they may seek a simple majority vote of the other Local Fractals under that Kingdom.

Local

Upon founding, the company will only consist of one Local Fractal. Each park with at least six members (not counting Earths) shall be granted status as a Local Fractal and may choose a name for their Fractal by vote between those members, which can occur online. Members of parks with less than six company members should be considered members of their nearest Local Fractal. Upon the granting of this status, the members should immediately vote on their leaders, which can also be done online.

Local Fractals may hold meetings as they require at park events involving at least two days and one night, and at company gatherings. These meetings should follow the rules below for company meetings. Any activity typical for a company meeting may be done, including voting on Earths, recognizing Houses, and awarding Stars, but only for members of that Fractal.

They may create a social media presence but may not limit access from other members of the company. Indeed, they should invite leaders from Kingdom Fractal to join them. All Earths at the park should be encouraged to join it.

Kingdom

Each Kingdom with at least three Local Fractals shall be granted status as a Kingdom Fractal, and may choose a name for their Fractal by vote between the members of the Local Fractals, which should occur online. Local Fractals without a Kingdom Fractal should be considered subject to the closest Kingdom Fractal. This may result in two Local Fractals in a kingdom being in different Kingdom Fractals until such time as they’re able to establish a third, and thus get their own Kingdom Fractal. Upon granting of this status, the members should immediately vote on their Leaders, which should also be done online. Existing Local leaders who are so elected must then immediately be replaced at their Local Fractal using the normal election processes.

Kingdom Fractals may hold meetings as they require at kingdom events. These meetings should follow the rules below for company meetings. Any activity typical for a company meeting may be done, including voting on Earths, recognizing Houses, and awarding Stars, but only for members of the Local Fractals of that Kingdom.

They should immediately create a social media presence, but may not limit access from other members of the company. Indeed, they should invite leaders from the Global Fractal to join them. All Earths in the kingdom should be encouraged to join it.

Global

When there are three Kingdom Fractals the company will establish a Global Fractal. Upon recognition of that status, the members should immediately vote on the Leaders, which should be done online. Existing leaders who are so elected must then immediately be replaced at the Fractal in which they were leaders using the normal election processes. This vote is only for the leader(s) that are leaving, and does not reset or alter the usual annual election date. Otherwise, the vote should proceed as prescribed for a typical election.

Global meetings may only occur in broadly attended inter-kingdom events, including, but not limited to the Gathering of the Clans, Keep on the Borderlands, etc. These meetings should follow the rules below for company meetings. Any activity typical for a company meeting may be done, including voting on Earths, recognizing Houses, and awarding Stars.

Upon founding, before there is even a Global Fractal, a social media presence will be established. All members should be given access, and all Leaders should be invited to join. All Earths should be encouraged to join it.

Leadership

There is a hierarchy of three kinds of leaders: for the Fractal, for the Event, and for the Unit. Each has a certain amount of autonomy from the other, but is expected to follow any guidance they get from higher up the chain, as best they can given the circumstances they face. Each Fractal of leadership has a triumvirate of leaders, one for each Modality. Each leader has responsibility to oversee their Modality, described below. A leader must be chosen from members of the Modality in which they intend to lead.

Fractal

Every Park, Kingdom, and the Global Fractal of the company shall have its own leaders. One cannot serve as leader to more than one Fractal.

Fractal Leaders are encouraged to use proper delegation. (If you’re doing it yourself, you’re probably doing it wrong.) Any responsibility granted to a leader may be delegated as they please, but the leader retains responsibility for making sure it’s done, and done well.

Election

Elections for Leaders should occur once per year, starting at the time the previous Leader was elected. The Cadent leader of the Fractal is responsible for announcing the election at least 28 days before it should occur.

Any Fire member of a Modality in that Fractal may declare their intent and be counted among the options. If there are no Fire members running, any Air member of a Modality in that Fractal may declare their intent and be counted among the options. Candidates are encouraged to make a public statement during their declaration that describes their intended policies.

If nobody declares by the day before the election, the existing Leader retains their position. If there is only one declaration, the vote is waived, and they are duly assigned.

Leaders are elected by ranked choice vote between voting members of their Modality in that Fractal. The vote should be done online in such a way as to maximize engagement from that Fractal’s members.

Removal/Retirement

If a leader is found unworthy of the honor, members of the Modality may petition the other two leaders to bring forth a vote of no confidence. If they unanimously agree, the leader should be given one day to make their case, and then a vote should be held for a period of no longer than one week, online so as to maximize engagement from that Fractal’s members. It should be a simple choice between deposement or not. Any voting member of the Modality in that Fractal may register their vote. If two-thirds of the votes are to depose, the vote is considered passed, and the leader immediately loses their status, but retains any other Stars, Houses, Triplicity, etc.

At any time, if the leader feels they are unable to fulfill their responsibilities, they may step down. They are expected to make it clear to everyone why they’re making that decision, and include details.

If a leader is removed or retires, an election should take place 28 days later, using the same process as described above for election. Such an election does not reset the timing for the next set of elections. Until the election, the remaining two leaders should determine between themselves who should take the role pro-tem, and that person should be a member of the appropriate Modality and Fractal. Neither the pro-tem nor the replacement leader are able to count the Leader Achievement for their term.

The Succedent

The Succedent leader of a Fractal is responsible for overseeing the fighting capacity of the Fractal. They should see to the health, training, and recruitment of all members of all Modalities for their Fractal.

In meetings, they are responsible for maintaining order and executing any action the meeting calls forth.

The highest ranking Succedent leader is responsible for updating and maintaining the Argo Novis. Any changes, removals, or additions should include a revision history that describes what it used to say, who made the change, and when. Each Fractal may maintain a small addendum specific to their Fractal, but are encouraged to share it with the other Fractals, who may adopt all or part of it as they please. The Argo Novis should include training regimens, health tips, formations (and calls for said formations), and attacks for various weapons and weapon combinations.

Twenty-eight days before any event, they are responsible for declaring a Succedent General for the event. They may choose one for the entirety of their reign, if they like, who they can replace at their whim. They may choose themselves. The selection can be any member of the Succedent Modality.

The Cadent

The Cadent leader of a Fractal is responsible for overseeing the needs of the Fractal. They should see to the hydration, injuries, energy levels, sleeping arrangements, garb, and gear of all members of all Modalities for their Fractal.

In meetings, they are responsible for taking notes and making sure those notes are posted online at their earliest convenience.

They are responsible for maintaining the treasury and collective property for the Fractal. They should maintain a registry of the former, and an inventory for the latter, both of which should be available online and kept up to date. When changes are made, the details of the transaction should be recorded, including how much/what was added or removed, why it was spent, or who it went to. In the case of the inventory, it should also be recorded who is storing the item. These records should be revisionary, with every transaction saved indefinitely.

Twenty-eight days before any event, they are responsible for declaring a Cadent General for the event. They may choose one for the entirety of their reign, if they like, who they can replace at their whim. They may choose themselves. The selection can be any member of the Cadent Modality.

The Angular

The Angular leader of a Fractal is responsible for overseeing the well-being of the Fractal. They should be available for conflict resolution between individuals. When a single representative of the company is required, they should be that individual. They have few other duties, save this: when another leader is slacking, they should take up that slack.

In meetings, they are responsible for calling the meeting to order, declaring each phase of the meeting, and ending the meeting.

The highest Fractal Angular leader(s) is(are) responsible for updating and maintaining the Zodiac Tribe Corpora. Any changes, removals, or additions should include a revision history that describes what it used to say, who made the change, and when the change was made. Revisions require a majority vote of the entirety of the voting populace, made online, after a 28-day review period.

Twenty-eight days before any event, they are responsible for declaring an Angular General for the event. They may choose one for the entirety of their reign, if they like, who they can replace at their whim. They may choose themselves. The selection can be any member of the Angular Modality.

Events

Before an impending event, Generals should be selected from each Modality. They will be responsible for the event-specific needs described below.

Generals are encouraged to use proper delegation. (If you’re doing it yourself, you’re probably doing it wrong.) Any responsibility granted to a General may be delegated as they please, but the General retains responsibility for making sure it’s done, and done well.

Assignment

Generals are assigned by the appropriate ranking Modality leader at least 28 days before the event. They may choose one for the entirety of their reign, if they like, who they can replace at their whim. They may choose themselves. The selection can be any member of the appropriate Modality.

Succedent General

The Succedent General is responsible for coming up with a battle plan, organizing teams, ensuring the fighters are present when it’s time to fight, and seeing to peace and security at camp. They should be very familiar with the rules of the scenario. They should be knowledgeable enough in the game rules to be able to build effective teams. They should know the fighters well enough to know who works well with whom. They should organize volunteers to watch over camp and toss out troublemakers.

Cadent General

The Cadent General is responsible for organizing, maintaining, and striking camp. They should ensure there’s plenty of water for everybody. They should make sure any meals not covered by the event are handled for our members. They should make sure entertainment and libations are available in the evenings. They should make sure Housed members get prime spots and that there’s plenty of space for everybody. They should make sure the members are comfortable, healthy, and ready to do their part. This includes cutting people off the libations, as necessary.

Angular General

The Angular General is responsible for promoting the company, ensuring everybody is making us look good, heraldry is properly displayed, inviting people to join us, and resolving any interpersonal issues that come up. They are responsible for keeping the schedule, and making sure everybody knows where they should be. They are responsible for maintaining proper communication between members. They are responsible for anything either of the other Generals are slacking on.

Unit

In those events where we have multiple teams, or where the General isn’t fighting, each team should have three Lieutenants to make sure the orders of the Generals are carried out.

Units can give themselves a name, if they so choose.

Assignment

Lieutenants are assigned by Generals for each unit. They can choose them for the entire event, or per engagement, at the General’s whim. Generals can choose themselves. Modality matching is not required, but strongly recommended.

Succedent Lieutenant

The Succedent Lieutenant is responsible for ensuring the battle plan of the General is enacted. They should call out formations as necessary, direct the team where decisions must be made, and make sure each individual is using their abilities and skills to their fullest.

Cadent Lieutenant

The Cadent Lieutenant is responsible for the health of the individuals in the team. They should make sure everyone is well-hydrated. If there’s an injury, they’re responsible for taking care of it, or getting it taken care of. If they see someone is in physical distress, they have the ability to require that individual leave the battlefield.

Angular Lieutenant

The Angular Lieutenant is responsible for the wellbeing and honor of the individuals in the team. They should make sure everybody fights with honor. If there’s a conflict, they’re responsible for resolving it, or getting it resolved. If they see someone is in emotional distress or becoming too aggressive, they have the ability to require that individual leave the battlefield.

Code of Conduct

Zodiac Tribe has a strict code of conduct. How one acts reflects on the whole. We are people of honor and will not tolerate hate, bigotry, intolerance, cruelty, or abuse.

The following is a list of what is expected of all members. It’s not to be considered exhaustive. This is above and beyond the Amtgard Code of Conduct, which is inviolable, and all offenses thereof should be reported to the appropriate kingdom. We will not hide such abuses within a veil of secrecy or handle it purely internally. We’ll throw your ass to the wolves. Come correct, or don’t come at all.

Bravery

When the need is great, and the odds are overwhelming, it is the brave that remain. Bravery is not idiocy, or suicide, but a willingness to stand, even in fear, against the unknown or oppressive.

Benevolence

Kindness, compassion, and charity to those in need is the cornerstone of civilization, and a true mark of humanity. If your brethren are in need, and you can help, do so, even if you must suffer a bit. If those who are not your brethren are in need, treat them as if they were.

Honesty

It is a very easy thing to lie. The reason is simple: as flawed humans we are often unable to recognize truth from lie. To save a hurt feeling, to promote oneself, to avoid pain; these and more are given as good reasons. Ultimately the lie accomplishes nothing and makes you a liar. Be true to the best of your ability to know truth, which, truthfully, is not very good. Know, in honesty, that you do not know the truth, only your own truth. To be honest, you must respect differences in truths, even when they seem conflicting.

Glory

Some would not call this a virtue. But, such is the nature of evolution: the weak are destroyed, and the strong grow stronger. Grow strong in glory for every accomplishment, and share it with your siblings. Be wary at all times of hubris, though. The strongest predator can fall victim to the smallest virus.

Loyalty

Stay strong in loyalty to your brethren and yourself. Follow them when need be; lead when they need to be led. Set examples, and fight if you must, but always remember to see past petty bickering to a simple fact: These are your siblings. Loyalty is not obedience, or jealousy. You have your own will, and it should be respected. You have other loyalties, and they should be respected too.

Duty

Each of us plays a role in a larger orchestra. You must find your place, and perform it, even if you don’t like the song. Perform the tasks given to you without fail, and we will not fail.

Balance

In all things, find balance. Revel, but not too greatly. Destroy, but not to the point of detriment. Feast, but not in gluttony. Lust, but do not forget respect. Work, but not to expiration. Play, but do not shirk your responsibilities. Grow, but do not leave your family behind.

Joviality

Some say that life itself is suffering. In many ways this is true. We fight, and in our victory our opponent finds only lesson and loss. We must celebrate in victory and in loss, never forgetting to hold back the tide of suffering. Celebrate your life, and you’ll find ways to make it worth living. Learn even from our losses, and we shall never truly lose.

Respect

Above all things is respect. Respect for your peers, respect for your elders, respect for your minions; all these and more. You do not have to agree, you do not have to like, you do not have to obey, but at all times you must show respect. Otherwise, you are not worthy of respect. Yet still, even those unworthy of respect are to be respected. You are but a frail human unable to judge such things, and thus unable to make those distinctions. Respect them, respect yourself. In respect of the rules we do not use grey areas to our advantage. In respect of the reeves we do not argue their judgments until the appropriate time. In respect of the officers we follow their dictums until we can have them changed. In respect of other players we do not seek to hurt them physically or emotionally. In respect of our brethren we do not humiliate them or cross their personal boundaries. In respect to our enemies we shake their hands after battle.

Censuring Members

Of course, everybody makes mistakes, so there is a ranked system of censure, described below. If you find a fellow member acting in ways contrary to our Code of Conduct, report it to their Modality leader at the first reasonable opportunity, privately. They will determine if censure is required. In most cases, the following process should be used, but in particularly grievous or minor offenses, the leader may use whichever response they feel is appropriate. However, they must discuss the matter with the other two Modality leaders first, and confirm their response is appropriate. Both must agree, otherwise the standard methodology is used.

Typically offenses must be similar to engage the next level. Dissimilar offenses engage along different tracks of level.

 If the offense is contrary to the Amtgard Code of Conduct, they should be reported to the kingdom.

First Offense

The Modality leader should take the individual aside and explain the offense to them. The anonymity of the accuser should be maintained vigorously. The individual should be given an opportunity to explain themselves. If it’s insufficient to excuse the behaviour, the following happens. Both should discuss how the individual and the group might ensure it never happens again. The individual may maintain privacy, but should be encouraged to eschew it in lieu of allowing the rest of the group to assist them in their self-improvement. They may not be given duties as General or Lieutenant, nor earn Achievements at the current (or next) event. If any damage was done, recompense must be offered. If any insult is given, apology must be offered, and a boon is owed to the victim. Refusal to accept either of these, or to show proper contrition, should trigger Second Offense consequences.

Second Offense

The local Fractal Modality leader should announce the offense publicly within the local Fractal, online. The kingdom Fractal should be informed. The anonymity of the accuser should be maintained vigorously. The individual should be given the opportunity to explain themselves. If it’s insufficient to excuse the behaviour, the following happens. The group should discuss how the individual can be helped from making that mistake again. The individual cannot be given duties as General or Lieutenant, nor earn Achievements, nor are any efforts for House recognized for a period of one year. If damage is done, recompense must be made, plus a bit more. If any insult is given, apology must be offered, and two boons are owed to the victim. Additionally, they are expected to apologize to the group for bringing them dishonor. Refusal to accept any of these, or to show proper contrition, should trigger Third Offense consequences.

Third Offense

The local Fractal Modality leader should announce the offense publicly to the entire company and locally, online. The anonymity of the accuser should be maintained vigorously. The individual should be given the opportunity to explain themselves. If it’s insufficient to excuse the behaviour, the following happens. The Fractal should immediately vote on the continued membership of the individual. A simple majority will be sufficient to remove them. If they are so disbarred, they may not attempt to join again until such time as the local Fractal has voted with a 2/3rds majority of existing voting members to allow them the opportunity to be recruited again, and with the unanimous approval of the kingdom Fractal leaders. If they are not disbarred, the individual cannot be given duties as General or Lieutenant, nor earn Achievements, nor are any efforts for House recognized for a period of 18 months. If damage is done, recompense must be made at twice the value. If any insult is given, apology must be offered, and three boons are owed to the victim. Additionally, they are expected to apologize to the group for bringing them dishonor. Refusal to accept any of these, or to show proper contrition, should trigger a second vote for disbarment

There should not be a fourth. If there is, they’re gone, for good, period.

Traditions

Rule of Threes, Fours, and Twelves

These numbers are very important within the fighting company. When possible we should continue to align our practices and culture around them.

Family

Everyone requires both to be served, and to be confronted. Too little of either leaves a person weak. It is our responsibility to serve the needs of our siblings when they need it, and give them shit when they need it. Challenge and charity, struggle and support, care and correction are all expected of one another.

Heraldry and Colors

Heraldry, if available to the member, should always be worn somewhere. When there’s no conflict with their participation with another fighting company (in the case of Air members), colors should be worn. Fire members should expect to make as much of their gear as they find comfortable with comply with the color scheme. Represent!

The Trials

Every Earth has a number of trials they must endure during their first six months, until they are voted in. While success in these trials isn’t required to attain membership, it does go a long way towards securing votes, and helps bond us in our common struggle.

Diligence

Upon being granted the status of Earth, the individual is to be given by their sponsor a symbol of that status: a braided cord of black, purple, and the color of their chosen Modality, between six and twelve inches long. That symbol is to be guarded at all times, in game and out. The braid cannot be tightly tied to anything, and should be on or near their person and visible at all times. The members of the company are expected to employ any means short of physically overpowering them to retrieve said symbol, and present it to the Earth’s sponsor. It is not returned until the Earth has performed some geas, a difficult and/or amusing task. It is the responsibility of the Earth’s sponsor to determine what that geas must be, but remember, the goal is not to shame the Earth, only teach them to be more diligent.

Duty

In every time and place there are tasks which must be performed that are not popular. The role of the Earth is simple: perform these tasks when asked, or better still, before you can be asked.

Fortitude

In order to understand balance, an Earth must first understand imbalance. In revelry we all have our limits, an Earth should come to know theirs. Often this refers to drinking, but if the Earth does not or cannot drink or otherwise imbibe, a similar trial can be devised. Local laws and the Amtgard Code of Conduct should not be broken in this trial. Otherwise, the Earth should partake in the spirits held by all, repeatedly, until the limits have been breached. All parties involved are responsible for keeping the poor Earth safe.

Camps

Whenever possible, the members should camp together. But this isn’t a rule, it’s a responsibility: to make a space members WANT to camp at. That means providing comforts, consumables, and for the needs of those who have special needs.

The camp should be organized in such a way as there is a common space, generally in the center, for the fire and a common supply area. Those of higher House get first choice of where to place their tent (or bunk), but such choices should be declared to the Cadent General before the event. Nobody gets moved once the Cadent General has approved their placement. Each member is expected to check in with the Cadent General upon arrival, to take their assigned spot (if assignments are made) or approve their selection.

The space for the company should be marked off, perhaps with flagging tape, or with a construct of tents, in such a way as there is a primary front entrance and a more subtle back entrance (generally in the direction of the nearest place to relieve one’s self). The front entrance should be festooned with the company heraldry and any other heraldry appropriate for the event (kingdom, Fractal, personal, etc).

Effort should be made to keep the camp beautiful. Decoration is highly recommended (obviously purple and black). Trash is to be kept in many offered receptacles, not on the ground or laying on a table. If something is untidy, take a moment and tidy it up. If a mud pit is forming, take steps to deal with it. Broken chairs should be removed. Passed out people should be taken to their tents. Gear should be kept in one’s tent, or under a common gear canopy.

All members should have free access to common needs, such as food, water, fire, etc. When possible, food, drink, libations, and whatnot should be shared with those who cannot afford their own. Additionally, when need is found outside the company, it should be offered to them, as best we can afford. Every member is expected to chip in as best they can, however they can, in procuring those supplies.

Camps should be considered welcoming to all at all times. At no time should somebody be excluded due to their allegiances, or lack thereof. Exceptions include individuals who start trouble often, or have been disbarred from the group for cause. The Succedent General has final say over who may or may not share our space. That being said, the welcome is generally for visitors. Those not in the company, or not afforded special dispensation by the Angular General, should pitch their tent elsewhere.

The Generals’ tents should be clearly marked.

Each local Fractal should maintain a collective set of equipment for camps. This can include coolers, chairs, canopies, a few spare tents, tarps, flagging tape, fire supplies, air mattress pump, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, carts for hauling gear, cups, plasticware, trash bags/cans, tables, coffee/tea/etc,

Meetings

Meetings of Zodiac Tribe should typically be open for all, and kept as brief as possible, so as to not separate members of the company from the Amtgard community as a whole. They should typically take place on the final night of an event, directly after the main feast.

While everybody has the right to say their piece, they’re asked to keep it brief, and not waste everybody’s time saying what’s already been said or just talking to hear themselves talk. Meetings are supposed to be as short as possible so as to not detract from the time we have to play and have fun.

Roles

As described in their responsibilities, the highest ranking leaders of each Modality have a specific duty. House, in this case, is first determined by Fractal level, then by individual House. If there’s still a conflict, they can determine between themselves a fair, random way to make the selection.

Order of Operation

Meetings have a specific order to how they go. Those phases are listed below.

Opening

The presiding Angular leader calls the meeting to order. Members should take their place in the circle. Those in attendance that aren’t members should be reminded they can watch, but keep their comments to themselves, and that they’re welcome to discuss anything they need to say with the membership after the meeting. Exceptions can be made, where the Angular leader deems appropriate and valuable to the group. The Angular leader then reminds everybody we’re all friends here, and to keep things civil, and share the floor. The Succedent leader is identified, and charged with keeping the peace. The Cadent leader is identified and asked if they’re prepared to take notes. When all three leaders are in agreement, the next phase can begin.

Old Business

The Cadent leader is asked by Angular leader if there is any old business from previous meetings to be dealt with. If so, it’s either discussed and voted on (as necessary) or tabled for later.

Inductions

If there are any Earths in attendance that have fulfilled their trial period, they may be processed, one at a time. They should be brought forth by their sponsor, who should take the opportunity to speak of the Earth first. If the sponsor is not available, they may choose a proxy to speak for them. Members in attendance are encouraged to speak up their true and honest feelings, both good and bad, regarding the Earth. Once the Angular leader is satisfied that everybody has has their say, voting can take place (as described below), and the next Earth can be processed (if any).

House Recognition

If anybody believes they have fulfilled the requirements to receive their next House, they may, in turn, make their case. If there is no veto from the ranking leader of their Modality in attendance, they may be recognized as having earned the House, and it should be noted. If somebody has a token of House to present them, they may be so honored. Otherwise they’ll need to make or get one themselves.

New Business

If any voting member has any new business to discuss, they may take this time to seek an audience. The new business is brought forth, and either discussed and voted on (as necessary) or tabled (see below). Angular leader has the responsibility of recognizing new business in the order they find most beneficial to the group, but no new business can go without either discussion or tabling.

Closing

The attending Angular leader thanks everybody for their time and attention. They take a moment to recognize the individuals that made the camp and combat go so well, or otherwise deserve a shout-out. Then they remind everybody of our responsibilities to one another. Finally, they then close the meeting.

Rules of Order

Everyone is allowed to speak, but not at once. If someone is speaking, and you wish to say something, indicate your desire. The Angular leader should recognize those people in turn. In general, all comments should be kept to less than five minutes, at which point the Angular leader may ask you to yield the floor, or extend your time, if appropriate. This time can be reduced dramatically if more than three people are indicating a desire to speak. If such is exercised, the speaker may have 15 more seconds to wrap it up, and then get in line to speak again, if necessary. If at any time the Succedent leader feels someone is being selfish with the time, abusive, aggressive, or disruptive, they may remove the individual for a period of no less than five minutes, up to the entirety of the meeting. Note they must do so in a way that complies with local laws and the Amtgard Code of Conduct, as well as our own. If they fail to comply, the meeting may be put on hold until such time as the individual is properly dealt with by authorities outside of the company.

Tabling

Any voting member can call for a vote or discussion to be tabled until such a time as it’s more appropriate. A vote is then taken, simple majority rules.

Votes

Votes in physical meetings are first taken by voice. First, the nays, then the ayes. If anyone feels the results are ambiguous they may motion for a call for a show of hands, in which case first the nays are counted, and then the ayes. For a voice vote, the Cadent leader should denote simply which way the vote went, but in the case of a hand count, totals for each should be recorded.

Votes in online spaces should be on a platform that is as universally accessible to the applicable members as possible.