THE IMPERIAL GUARD HANDBOOK
(v3, 9/05/03) - Penned by Lieutenant Vurlak Kordatar, 8th Imperial Regiment
(v4, 2/05/07) - Updated by Lieutenant Merow Ghurak, 8th Imperial Regiment

Terminology

Within this document, the term "Guard" refers to the Imperial Guard as an organization. Individual members are referred to as "Guardsmen" or "Imperial Guardsmen." This document concerns the infantry aspect of the Imperial Guard, though regulations will likely be similar within cavalry or mage units. For ease of reference, male pronouns are used exclusively, and this in no way designates the Imperial Guard as an all-male organization.

Section One: The Imperial Guard

The Imperial Guard serves as both law enforcement and standing army within the provinces of the Kivian Imperium. Here we will discuss the Guardsman's duties, his Code of Conduct, benefits, organizational structure of the Imperial Guard, regulations, and other minutiae.

A Guardsman's Duty and Code of Conduct

The Guardsman's Code of Conduct clearly defines his duties and obligations to the Imperium, to his people, and to himself. By taking a solemn oath to uphold the Imperium and all it stands for, and by swearing to perform his duty, a Guardsman is honor-bound to his Code in all things for so long as he remains a member of the Imperial Guard. Any deviation from this code constitutes a punishable violation of his oath.

A Guardsman must:

...serve and protect the Kivian Imperium, safeguarding the lives and property of its citizens.

...uphold the laws of the Kivian Imperium, hounding criminals ruthlessly and without compromise.

...be forthright and true in both spirit and flesh, lending an example in both his private life and official duties.

...be an example for all by strictly observing his Code of Conduct and the laws of the Kivian Imperium.

...develop and hone his discipline and self-restraint, remaining calm even when in perilous danger.

...never allow his decisions to be influenced by his personal feelings.

...never accept gratuities which may inadvertently sway his allegiance.

...follow orders to the best of his ability, without question or hesitation.

Duty, Pay, Benefits, and Terms of Service

Pay within the Guard is based on rank. With increased rank comes increased responsibility, and this should be reflected in increased compensation for time spent in the pursuit of duty. Time spent on duty is strictly regimented, and is generally equal to three hundred hours of service per month. Guardsmen are paid once every thirty days, generally on the first or last day of the month.

Enlisted Ranks

Junior Guardsman (Trainee/Recruit): 5000 sovereigns per month.
Guardsman (Private): 6000 sovereigns per month.
Senior Guardsman (Lance Corporal): 7000 sovereigns per month.
Corporal: 8500 sovereigns per month.
Sergeant (or Senior Sergeant): 12000 sovereigns per month.
Staff Sergeant: 13000 sovereigns per month
First Sergeant: 14000 sovereigns per month
Master Sergeant: 15000 sovereigns per month
Sergeant Major: 17000 sovereigns per month

Officer Ranks

Lieutenant: 14000 sovereigns per month
Captain: 16000 sovereigns per month
Major: 18000 sovereigns per month
Lieutenant Colonel: 20000 sovereigns per month

Colonel: 22000 sovereigns per month
General: 24000 sovereigns per month
Marshall: 26000 sovereigns per month
Grand Marshall: 28,000 sovereigns per month

Aside from payment for his service to the Imperium, a Guardsman is privy to several benefits, including (but not limited to) the following:

Free room and board in the Imperial Keep.

The basic essentials required to perform his duty, including uniforms, weaponry, armor, and shields. Depending on the Imperial economic situation, this can constitute either a Guard discount on items bought from local retailers, or items assigned to the Guardsman by the Imperial Keep for which he is responsible.

Free medical attention from empaths of the Imperial Guard (assigned to the Imperial Keep).

A pension, redeemable upon retirement, the value of which is based on time served, rank achieved, and lasting injuries suffered in the service of the Imperium.

A term of service in the Imperial Guard is usually for a period of ten to twenty years. This term is based on a sacred oath of fealty that each Guardsman takes upon joining the Guard, and is not negotiable once established. All potential Guardsmen must be citizens of the Imperium, in good standing with no criminal record, and must meet a minimum age requirement of 15 years.

Recruitment

Presently, the Imperial Guard recruits new Guardsmen from the local population. Only those who apply through the proper channels are permitted to join. A potential Guardsman must be a citizen of the Kivian Imperium, at least fifteen years of age (or the racial equivalent, in the case of non-humans), in good physical health, with no criminal record. Once an application has been submitted, it may take some time for the application to be processed.

Each applicant must undergo an interview, wherein he is evaluated by one or more non-commissioned officers (NCOs). Once the interview has been completed, the NCO must submit a detailed report to Command. This report will list whether or not the application has been accepted, and if not, the interviewer's reasons for not feeling that the applicant in question is fit for duty. If accepted, each new Guardsman must take an oath of fealty and be sworn in as a Junior Guardsman. He will be assigned a backpack containing essential Guard gear, and is expected to train in Guard tactics and skills. The new Junior Guardsman is typically assigned to an NCO, who trains with the new recruit and supervises his behavior.

The applicant must prove himself worthy over the next thirty days, and his conduct will be closely monitored by his superiors and fellow Guardsmen. After thirty days have passed, a tribunal of the commanding NCOs either approves or rejects the applicant. In either case, a report must be made to Command that gives reasons (behavior, accrued demerits, etc.). If approved, the new Guardsman must take his oath before his fellows, and is promoted to the rank of Guardsman.

The oath each Guardsman must swear to is as follows:

"My life is my brothers and sisters, and my word my bond. Death before dishonor."

Current Guard policy only allows for a maximum of five Junior Guardsmen in training at any one time in any one platoon. This is to facilitate a controlled growth within the Guard ranks in outlying provinces, and to prevent the number of Guardsmen from reaching unmanageable levels.

Guard Property

All items of official issue by the Imperial Guard are considered to be Guard property, and include (but are not limited to) the following items:

Uniforms, including tunics, breeches, boots, cloaks, and headgear, as well as Guard-issued weaponry and armor.

Containers, including backpacks, dagger cases, and scabbards.

Miscellaneous equipment, including keys, sealing rings, nets, tents, bedrolls, canteens, handcuffs, shackles, and other items.

Badges of rank, such as epaulets, insignia, unit flashes, as well as official medals and decorations.

Mechanical equipment, including explosives, launchers, ammunitions, and equipment marked by suppliers to the Imperial Guard as belonging to same.

Official paperwork, such as proclamations, arrest orders, search warrants, or Guard correspondence.

Possession or use of this equipment by non-Guardsmen is a serious offense, and all Guard property in the hands of non-Guardsmen must be confiscated immediately. Uncooperative civilians in possession of Guard property may be subject to fines, arrest, and imprisonment at the arresting Guardman's discretion.

Guardsmen who resign their position or are otherwise discharged must turn in all Imperial property to their commanding officer. Exception is made in relation to any official medals or decorations earned, and these may be kept by the former Guardsman.

Uniform Regulations

A Guardsman must remain in uniform at all times when on duty. Standard uniform includes boots, beret (only worn out-of-doors), breeches, tunic, and cloak. These items are property of the Imperium, and are to remain unsullied and unaltered at all times.

Any jewelry or affectations worn by a Guardsman must be tasteful and safe.

In the pursuit of his duty, a Guardsman is free to employ any weapons or armor with which he is proficient, within reason. Use of weapons, armor, or other equipment which is typically identified with enemy units (Orcish weapons or armors, for example) is strongly discouraged.

A Guardsman is also required to be mentally and physically fit for duty at all times. This means that the Guardsman must be free of all debilitating wounds, and ready for action at a moment's notice. If it is convenient for a wounded Guardsman to seek treatment, he must do so at the earliest opportunity. Under combat conditions, wounds must be tolerated until such time as it is safe for a Guardsman to seek healing.

Intimacy Between Guardsmen

Intimacy between members of the Imperial Guard is generally discouraged, though not actively prohibited. As long as such a relationship is shared by Guardsmen of the same grade (officer or enlisted), it will be tolerated. While on duty, Guardsmen are to retain a professional demeanor. Acts of public affection between Guardsmen are forbidden. If a relationship between two Guardsmen becomes troublesome, interferes with official duties, or causes undue strife within a unit, all involved parties may be subject to disciplinary action. Marriage between Guardsmen is permitted, but only with the blessing of their commanding officer(s).

Promotions

Promotion occurs when a Guardsman's rank is increased to the next highest level. This can be done for any number of reasons, and generally brings about increased benefits and responsibilities. Promotions can be gained as a reward for exemplary service, above and beyond the call of duty. If a Guardsman performs well and exceeds expectations, it follows that he is more than likely capable of accepting the additional responsibility that a promotion entails. The benefits of promotion, namely increased authority and pay, are generally viewed as a proper reward for excellent service. In addition to the promotion itself, other decorations may be granted to the recipient to recognize his service.

Promotions can also be gained if a superior officer or NCO makes a recommendation. Any NCO or Officer can recommend a lower-ranking Guardsman within his unit for promotion. This recommendation must be approved by a tribunal. The Guardsman's past history and record are often scrutinized. Once authorized, the promotion goes into effect immediately.

One final way to gain a promotion is by making a request. Any Guardsman can request a promotion by filing the proper forms with his superior officer or NCO. Like promotions awarded through a request by a superior officer, this type of promotion consists of a review of the Guardsman's record, and must be approved by a tribunal. A Guardsman cannot request more than one promotion within a sixty day period.

Though uncommon, it is possible for a Guardsman to reject his own promotion and remain at his current rank. While there are no consequences for such an action, a Guardsman who rejects three promotions in a row is more likely to be overlooked when future promotions are called for.

In some cases, such as in under-strength units during wartime, promotions can be imposed upon Guardsmen regardless of their personal feelings or sense of self-worth. A promotion of this kind is known as a "promotion by decree." Any Guardsman who is the target of such a promotion is required to assume his new responsibilities immediately. Guardsmen who are caught wearing epaulets of a lower rank will be considered out of uniform and subject to the appropriate disciplinary actions.

Decorations

Decorations are awarded to Guardsmen in recognition of their deeds, dedication, and perseverance in the face of the enemy. Each is unique, and awarded under specific conditions. Most often, a superior officer will recommend one or more of his troops for recognition. In some cases, such as with the Order of the Damsel's Mercy, the award is granted automatically.

Although there are hundreds of individual decorations in use by the Imperial Guard (in addition to decorations in use by individual regiments and companies), an exhaustive list is beyond the scope of this document. Instead, the most well-known awards are detailed below in order to provide some idea of the decorations that are available. Such medals are only worn under parade circumstances, though Guardsmen are permitted to paint diminutive representations of their commendations upon their shields.

Gold Griffin
The highest award for valiant accomplishments and steadfast dedication to the crown against overwhelming odds. Generally awarded posthumously, it is rarely awarded to living soldiers. This award, which is worn around the neck, consists of a purple ribbon from which hangs a gold medallion. The obverse depicts a griffin's head with eyes of sparkling amethyst, while the reverse side is engraved with the words, "Virtue, Dedication, Sacrifice."

Steel Griffin with Bom Leaves
Given for chivalry and depth of spirit in the face of certain death. Guardsmen who receive the Steel Griffin with Bom Leaves are the very epitome of what a Guardsman should be, and are honored as such. Similar in appearance to the Steel Griffin (see below), the Steel Griffin with Bom Leaves is worn on the breast, mounted on a crimson silk ribbon. The medallion, cast from high steel and inlaid with silver, is shaped like a griffin with several bom boughs clutched in its feet. The reverse side of the medal is engraved with the Guardsman's name.

Steel Griffin
Awarded for acts of bravery that result in significant accomplishments. Most often, the Steel Griffin is given to Guardsmen whose actions make the difference between victory and defeat during a combat action. It consists of a blood red ribbon worn on the breast, from which hangs a high-steel medallion in the shape of a griffin. The reverse side of the medal is engraved with the name of the Guardsman to whom it is awarded, as well as the deeds that earned him this honor.

Iron Griffin
This is the most common decoration awarded for courage in action. It consists of a blue ribbon worn on the breast, from which hangs an iron medallion. The medallion features the Imperial crest on the obverse side, and the face of the current emperor on the reverse.

Vorun's Seal
Vorun's seal is awarded to Guardsmen for good conduct, and indicates a flawless career within the Imperial Guard. To be eligible, a Guardsman must have a clean record for at least two years, with no demerits accrued, nor any disciplinary actions taken against him. Vorun's Seal can be awarded more than once, and each award past the first adds a small four-pointed star to the obverse side. The medal is worn on the breast in standard fashion, and consists of a dark green ribbon hung with a crescent-shaped bronze medallion. The obverse side starts out blank, and additional stars are added from left to right. The reverse of the medallion is inscribed with the words, "For Exceptional Conduct." While it may be seen as a trivial award, it is routinely taken into account favorably during trials and disciplinary hearings.

Order of the Damsel's Mercy
This medal is awarded to any Guardsmen who suffers a serious wound in combat. Like Vorun's Seal, it can be awarded multiple times. The medal is composed of a dark blue ribbon with a white horizontal stripe for every instance that it has been awarded. Hanging from the ribbon is the medallion itself, which is round and cast from bronze. The obverse is engraved with the image of a wounded griffin, while the reverse is marked with the words, "For You, She Weeps" ("She" being Eyssa).

Order of the Grim Legion
This award, like the Order of the Damsel's Mercy, is granted for wounds received in combat. The difference between the two, however, is important: the Order of the Grim Legion is awarded to Guardsmen who have died in the line of duty, but who were later resurrected or otherwise returned to life. Unlike the Order of the Damsel's Mercy, the Order of the Grim Legion is only awarded to a Guardsman once. The medal is worn on the chest, with a blackened steel medallion in the shape of a skull attached to a black silk ribbon. The medal's reverse side features the words, "For the Ultimate Sacrifice."

Campaign Service Medals
These are awards given to any soldier who served in a particular campaign, and each varies in style. As many hundreds of these medals are awarded, they are not manufactured from precious stones or metals and are usually simplistic in design. For example, the Order of Pethyl was a medal awarded to any Guardsman who served in the Kant Uprising, and it consists of a gray ribbon hung with a steel medallion in the shape of an inverted teardrop. The obverse side of the medallion is smooth, while the reverse is inscribed with the words, "Never Forget."

Debt of the Sovereign
This is an unusual award which is only given to those who are personally responsible for saving the life of the Emperor or members of his immediate family. Always awarded personally by the Emperor himself, this decoration is rare indeed. Any Guardsman that earns this decoration can, at his prerogative, offer it to the Emperor in exchange for a personal favor (such as a pardon, a better posting, or any number of favors, as long as they are within the Emperor's power to grant). Not surprisingly, these debts are rarely called in. Like the Gold Griffin, the Debt of the Sovereign is worn around the neck, attached to a gold ribbon. The round medallion is struck from the finest gold, etched by hand, and inset with several small rubies and sapphires. The obverse depicts the Imperial Palace in Penthras, while the reverse reads, "With His Majesty's Undying Gratitude."

Leaving the Imperial Guard

Service in the Imperial Guard can be terminated under any of the following circumstances:

Honorable Discharge
An honorable discharge is granted to any Guardsman who has served his entire term of service, and who does not wish to re-enlist. Guardsman who are honorably discharged receive a pension based on time served, rank achieved, and any lasting injuries they may have suffered.

Medical Discharge
If a Guardsman suffers injuries which prevent him from performing his duties, he is eligible for a Medical Discharge. A Medical Discharge is in all other ways similar to an Honorable Discharge. Any Guardsman mustering out on a Medical Discharge is entitled to his full pension, as determined by his agreed-upon term of service.

Dishonorable Discharge
Any Guardsman convicted of violating his duty or Code of Conduct, if not directly jailed or executed, may also be Dishonorably Discharged. Anyone discharged in this fashion automatically forfeits all Guard benefits and immediately ceases to be a Guardsman. From this point forward, the former Guardsman may never again join the Imperial Guard, and he is forbidden from holding any position of authority within the Imperium (though he may advance himself in local and provincial politics if the stigma of his dishonor does not keep local authorities from associating with him).

Voluntary Discharge
Any Guardsman may file for a Voluntary Discharge in time of peace. If approved, the Guardsman is discharged and immediately loses any accumulated Guard benefits. If so desired, a former Guardsman who was the subject of a Voluntary Discharge may re-enlist in the Imperial Guard. In the event that he is accepted, he must start over in the chain of command, and may never achieve Officer ranks.

Unit Organization

The Imperial Guard is broken up into units of varying size, the basics of which are listed below:

Army
The army is the largest unit recognized in the Imperial Guard, consisting of between 12,000 and 18,000 men. Armies are not generally fielded all at once, as the cost and logistics of such activity is prohibitive. Instead, the divisions that make up an army are used separately. Each army is commanded by a General.

Division
There are three divisions per army. Divisions are generally assigned to large geographic locations. A division is commanded by a Colonel, and each division consists of between 4,000 and 6,000 men.

Regiment
There are ten regiments per division. A regiment consists of between 480 and 600 men, and each regiment is commanded by a Lieutenant Colonel and a Sergeant Major. Regiments are most often assigned to an individual province.

Battalion
There are six battalions per regiment, each consisting of 80 to 100 men. Battalions are generally assigned to specific cities, and are commanded by a Major and a Master Sergeant.

Company
There are two companies per battalion. Companies consist of between 40 and 50 men. Each company is commanded by a Captain and a First Sergeant.

Platoon
There are two platoons per company, and each platoon consists of between 20 and 25 men. Each platoon is commanded by a Lieutenant and a Staff Sergeant.

Squad
There are five squads per platoon, with each squad consisting of 4 to 5 men. Each squad is commanded by either a Sergeant or a Corporal.

Team
There are two teams per squad, with each squad consisting of between 2 and 3 men. Each squad is commanded by the most senior NCO that is present.

A typical Imperial Guard Platoon at full-strength consists of the following members:
1 Lieutenant
1 Staff Sergeant
2 Sergeants
4 Corporals
17 Guardsman (includes Senior and Junior Guardsmen)

Discipline Within the Imperial Guard

Any violation of a Guardsman's duty and/or Code of Conduct must be dealt with and punished swiftly and accordingly, depending on the severity of the infraction. Guard justice is a private matter between agents of the Imperium, and should be meted out within the Imperial Keep, never to be discussed with civilians and non-Guardsmen.

Depending on the severity of a crime, the following punishments may apply:

Restriction to Quarters
A Guardsman who is restricted to quarters is not allowed to leave the Imperial Keep, except on matters of duty or assignment. Fraternization with other Guardsman and civilian companions while restricted to quarters is strictly forbidden. Restriction to quarters is usually accompanied by menial tasks, such as cleaning the Keep, polishing armor and weapons, and performing the ever-dreaded Kitchen Patrol (K.P.).

Censure
Censure is an official verbal reprimand, usually combined with a fine and sometimes with administrative punishment. The Guardsman being censured is made to verbally recite his crimes in front of his fellow Guardsmen, and the censure is marked down in his permanent record.

Fine
A fine might be imposed on a Guardsman for most minor infractions. Often, these fines are deducted from the Guardsman's monthly pay. In the case of large or excessive fines, they may be deducted piecemeal over a series of months, or subtracted from a Guardsman's pension.

Administrative Discipline
This is the highest form of punishment allowed against a Guardsman without first performing a court martial. Administrative discipline includes physical punishment, such as whipping and walking the "gauntlet." Normally, administrative discipline is reserved for severe infractions that do not warrant either demotion or discharge from service, generally at the ranking officer's discretion. Such punishment is usually carried out in the bailey of the Imperial Keep, and all available Guardsmen are expected to attend.

Demotion
Guardsmen who have perpetrated severe infractions can be demoted. Demotion, due to its long-lasting impact on a Guardsman's career, can only be meted out at an official court martial. One or more ranks can be stripped, and a Guardsman so demoted is reduced to the appropriate pay scale.

Discharge
Any Guardsman found guilty by court martial of severe infractions can be dishonorably discharged. This is in addition to any other punishment meted out by the court.

Military Prison
Guardsmen are rarely sent to a military prison for minor infractions. Usually, military prison is reserved for Guardsmen who have perpetrated crimes against the Imperium, but these crimes aren't usually serious enough to carry a stiffer penalty (ie, exile or execution). A military prison sentence is most often accompanied by a dishonorable discharge. Prison terms vary widely, depending on the severity of the crime, and can last for several months up to several decades.

Exile
The punishment of exile is reserved for Guardsmen who are found guilty of serious crimes against the Imperium that do not generally involve loss of life or territory. The Guardsman in question faces any other disciplinary action that his sentence dictates, and it then taken to the furthest reaches of the Imperium and released, never to return. To return to the Imperium or any of its provinces means that he will be executed without a trial if he is caught.

Execution
Execution is reserved for the most heinous and unforgivable crimes against the Imperium and the Imperial Guard. The standard method of execution, once a Guardsman has been convicted, is decapitation.

Demerits
Demerits are given and accrued when a Guardsman steps out of line, breaks his code of conduct, or performs some minor offense which is contrary to the well-being and morale of the Imperial Guard. They are less severe than other forms of punishment, and are not generally given under harsher circumstances. Demerits accumulate as they are earned, and accumulating too many generally results in punishments of increasing severity. A demerit is given at an officer or NCO's discretion.

First Demerit: Restriction to Quarters
Second Demerit: Censure
Third Demerit: Fine
Fourth Demerit: Administrative Discipline
Fifth Demerit: Demotion

For details on the listed punishments, see "Discipline Within the Imperial Guard," above.

When five demerits have been accrued, the Guardsman's total demerits "rolls over" to zero, and he automatically loses rank. This is the only way a Guardsman can lose rank without facing a court martial. If a Guardsman is reduced below the rank of Junior Guardsman, he is dishonorably discharged from service. As a matter of course, a discharge as a result of demerits is accompanied by a formal hearing similar to a court martial.

Section Two: Crime and Punishment

A crime is any act prohibited by law that is deemed injurious to the public well-being. What follows are a list of common crimes, each with a short description. Using this list as a guide, it should be a simple matter for Guardsmen to recognize villainous activities. For ease of reference, crimes are broken up into four distinct groups: Minor Crimes, Major Crimes, Heinous Crimes, and Variable Crimes.

Minor Crimes

Minor crimes include offenses that, while harmful to public good, are not generally violent.

Assault
Applies to either the use or the threat of violence upon another individual, through physical or magical means.

Burglary
Applies to breaking into and entering a residence, public or private, with the intention of stealing property.

Disorderly Conduct
Applies to any number of offenses, the most common of which is drunken horseplay; it can also be applied to any situation in which a suspect is being disruptive to others, even though he may not be committing a specific crime.

Embezzlement
Applies to the illicit diversion of money and/or goods for personal gain.

Fraud
Applies to gaining money or goods through deception.

Gambling
Applies to any merchant or individual who, without the proper authorization, organizes betting and/or games of chance.

Liquor Law Violation
Applies to any merchant making liquor available to the public without acquiring the requisite licenses or paying the required taxes.

Obstruction of Justice
Applies to any attempt to hinder an official investigation, either by withholding information or by giving false testimony.

Possession/Receiving of Stolen Goods
Applies to the possession and trade of stolen property.

Rioting
Applies to a gathering of three or more persons with the intention of causing personal violence or destruction of property.

Robbery
Applies to the theft of money or goods from the body, clothes, or containers of a victim, through picking pockets, cutting purses, or other methods.

Summoning
Intentionally summoning or controlling an external sentient magical entity. This list includes, but is not limited to, the following: Mage familiars, spirits, animal companions, demons, or elementals.
An exception has been granted to the Lyceum for specific authorized lessons.

Suspicious Behavior
The wearing of all concealing cloaks in interior public places.

Trespassing
Intrusion of privately owned property, whether home or shop.

Weapon Offenses
Applies to carrying unsheathed or ready weapons within city limits when no outside threat is pending.

Major Crimes

Major crimes include violent crimes, as well as crimes that are quite damaging to the public good.

Abduction
Applies to any illegal capture or arrest of an individual against their wishes, either through use of violence, threat of violence, fraud, or another form of coercion.

Aggravated Assault
Applies to the use of violence upon an individual with the intention of slaying or crippling him, whether successful or not. Aggravated assault that results in the permanent death of an individual is considered Murder.

Armed Robbery
Applies to the use or the threat of violence in order to steal money or goods from an individual or establishment.

Arson
Applies to the illegal ignition of fires, or the use of incendiary mechanisms, materials, or fire-causing sorcery, to destroy or harm public or private property.

Attacking a Servant of the Imperium
Applies to any application of force upon an Imperial emissary, be it a Guardsman, a tax collector, or any authorized Imperial servant. This charge is typically applied in addition to any other charges.

Counterfeiting
Applies to the manufacture and distribution of counterfeit currency or documents.

Extortion
Applies to any instance in which threats of violence are made in order to obtain money or goods.

Rape
Applies to any non-consensual carnal act perpetrated upon an individual by one or more assailants.

Trafficking
Applies to the illegal import and export of controlled or unlawful merchandise, substances, and/or slaves.

Heinous Crimes

Heinous crimes include only the most reprehensible acts.

Espionage
Applies to theft of sensitive government information, as well as distribution of this information to foreign powers and/or enemies of the state.

Murder
Applies to causing the permanent death of one or more individuals, whether intentional or not.

Treason
Applies to any crimes perpetrated against the Imperium with the intention of causing its ruin.

Variable Crimes

Variable crimes are those crimes that have penalties based upon certain variables, generally in relation to another crime.

Conspiracy
Applies to the planned commission of any crime. The severity of the conspiracy is based on the severity of the planned criminal act. Thus, conspiracy to kill a person would be akin to a Murder charge.

Punishment of Crimes

Punishment for crimes, especially in the far-flung reaches of the Imperium, is by and large a matter of choices made by the local magistrates. In order to lend speed to these proceedings, the Imperial Guard and members thereof are given specific jurisdiction over the enforcement of laws and the doling out of punishment to those citizens callous enough to commit such acts.

Except in cases where a magistrate intervenes and requests to hear a specific case, all sentencing and punishment shall be decreed and carried out by the arresting Guardsman or his immediate superiors, without benefit of trial.

Guardsmen are given several guidelines in meting out punishment that they must follow in the pursuit of justice. These guidelines are to prevent an abuse of power by individual Guardsmen, and should be strictly enforced by fellow Guardsmen and their commanding officers. The punishments for all crimes perpetrated against Guardsmen are increased by half.

When a crime is committed by a suspect, there are two forms of punishment available: fines and incarceration.

Fines include monetary penalties that must be paid by the suspect to a Guardsman in order to compensate for his poor behavior. If a suspect is unwilling or unable to pay his fine, he will either be jailed or, in the case of a suspect who is already facing a jail sentence, his sentence will be increased.

Incarceration includes the arrest and jailing of a suspect. Time served depends on many factors, and these include the nature of the crime that has been perpetrated, the suspect's attitude at the time of arrest (both towards the arresting Guardsman and the crime itself), and the arresting Guardsman's own judgment.

All crimes that are considered Minor Crimes are punishable by either a full 24 hours of imprisonment, or a fine of between 1000 and 5000 sovereigns. Offenses that are considered Major Crimes have increased penalties, including up to three days of imprisonment, as well as fines of between 6000 to 20000 sovereigns.

In extreme cases, both a fine and a jail term are levied against the subject. In the case of repeat offenses, the perpetrator's previous fines are doubled, and a day is added to the base sentence for each offense after the first. Unwillingness or inability to pay these fines results in an increased amount of time spent in jail, up to an extra day for every 500 sovereigns (or fraction thereof) owed. In no case must a suspect's sentence be longer than 14 days.

The arresting Guardsman is solely responsible for releasing his prisoners. If he is unable to perform this task, he must make every attempt to contact another Guardsman so that prisoners are not incarcerated in excess of the time warranted by their misconduct. Guardsmen who consistently forget to release prisoners on time may be subject to disciplinary action.

Heinous crimes are handled somewhat differently from Minor and Major crimes. Generally, the suspect is arrested and jailed immediately, and high-ranking Guardsmen are brought in to ensure that proper justice is meted out.

These punishments, as a rule, apply to all crimes that are committed within the borders of the Imperium. If a shop keeper reports a crime, it is a standard operational procedure to arrest all parties involved in the crime, if there be more than one.

All fines collected are to be kept by individual Guardsmen until such time as they can be turned in to the senior commanding officer or non-commissioned officer. Fines are not normally refunded, unless the suspect can prove his innocence without a shadow of a doubt.

Regarding Witnesses

A crime that is witnessed by many is easier to prove than a crime that has been witnessed by one. In the case of a single witness testifying against a single suspect, the investigating Guardsmen must take into account many factors: the credibility of both the witness and the suspect (including similar behavior prior to the current incident), the severity of the alleged crime, and any evidence that can be presented by either party to sway his decision one way or the other. This changes when the single witness is a Guardsmen. Due to a Guardsman's authority and his sworn oath of fealty, it is taken for granted that his word is truth.

If there are multiple witnesses to a crime, they must each be interviewed separately, preferably in private or by different Guardsmen. Once the interviews are complete, their stories must be compared by the investigators and any inconsistencies noted. If the tales the witnesses tell are more or less identical, the guilt of the suspect can be assured.

A suspect, in his own defense, may call witnesses of his own who will support his story. These witnesses consist of two types: those who were present and can verify the suspect's innocence, and those who testify "in support" of the suspect, swearing before the gods that the suspect is good and true of character. Like those who have witnessed against the suspect, these folk must be interviewed as well.

The testimony of those who speak "in support" of the suspect is less binding than actual witnesses, though their affirmation of his finer qualities may clear him of suspicion in the case of a crime where there was only a single witness present. In effect, those speaking in support of the suspect are swearing that their friend would never do such a thing, and that they are willing to be jailed (for the offense of Obstruction of Justice) if it is later proven that their friend did, indeed, commit the crime.

In the end, it is the judgment of the investigating Guardsmen that determines the suspect's fate.

Arrest Procedure

When arresting a suspect, a Guardsman must either be a witness to the crime, or he must have enough evidence to prove that the suspect has committed or has intended to commit the crime. This evidence can take the form of witnesses, physical evidence, or confessions.

If convenience permits, the arresting Guardsman must inform a suspect that he intends to arrest him, and on what charges the arrest is based. If specific orders or warrants are required in order to make the arrest (in the case of high-profile felons), they should also be provided to the suspect or his legal council (if present). Once in custody, a suspect's well-being and safety are the arresting Guardsman's responsibility.

The application of force is occasionally required to subdue particularly violent or uncooperative suspects. In such cases, the suspect can be charged for his crimes once he is confined within the nearest jail or dungeon. After the suspect has been arrested, charged, fined, and/or jailed, he is subject to the mercy of the Imperium while his guilt is determined. It is preferable that the suspect give a detailed confession, so as to accelerate the trial. Confessions may be gained through questioning, interrogation, and reasonable torture.

Members of the royal house and those enjoying the hospitality of the Sovereign, titled nobility (barons, dukes, earls, and the like), and royal servants (pages, heralds, and other servants on official Palace business) may not be arrested without proper authorization and/or warrants from High Command. Likewise, foreign diplomats and envoys who enjoy political immunity, as well as agents of servants of the Imperium, such as tax collectors, military officers, or other Imperial Guardsmen, may not be arrested without authorization. Proper authorization in any case must consist of a written arrest order (ie, warrant) signed by the ranking officer.

These considerations do not apply to untitled nobility (such as Lords or Ladies) or their servants, nor to enlisted members of militias, their elected officers, or hired mercenaries.

Concerning Arrests

When a suspect is jailed for a crime, he must be informed of the exact date and time of his release. These times must be detailed in the arresting Guardsman's report. The arresting Guardsman is thereafter responsible for releasing the suspect once his time is up. If he is unable to do so, it is his responsibility to find another Guardsman who can.

Visitation in Gaol
No persons other than barristers, magistrates, and other Imperial officials are to be allowed into the cellblock of the gaol. All such visitors must be accompanied by a Guardsman at all times, except in cases where an official requests a private interview with the prisoner. In that case the Guardsman will escort the visitor into the cell, leave the cell, lock the door, and remain in the hallway outside the cell until requested to return. In most cases the prisoner will be shackled and handcuffed for the duration of the visit.

Detaining Prisoners
Occasionally, suspects may be detained for questioning. If the suspect is a flight risk, he can, at the arresting Guardsman's option, be detained in a jail cell for no longer than 24 hours. If, by this time, the suspect has not been questioned, he must be released on his own recognizance.

Use of Force
Guardsmen are permitted to employ deadly force when the life or well-being of an individual is threatened, and when inaction may spell the difference between life and death. Likewise, force may be used to subdue a suspect who has been arrested and attempts to evade his captors, or one who resists arrest through violent means. Force may also be used to control rioting mobs.

Guard Patrol Reports
Every Imperial Guardsman is expected to make public reports in regards to unusual incidents that he finds himself involved in while performing hid duties. It is important that these reports be precise, legibly-written, and coherent. In the case of a Guardsman who does not know his letters, or who is unable to write legibly, seek out an Imperial scribe so that he may take your report down. Patrol reports must be made in a timely manner, preferably within an hour of an incident, and should include all relevant facts.

Patrol reports can include any officially documented information, not just the results of official patrols. Statements taken from citizens in regards to criminal activities or complaints are counted as patrol reports, as are documents that detail odd happenings that are witnessed by or reported to a Guardsman.

In regards to arrest reports, it is now mandatory that any incident involving an arrest be fully documented. If a citizen is punished, there must be a corresponding report which details the exact punishment that has been applied. The time of an arrest is of particular importance, as is the length of the prisoner's incarceration, and both of these facts should be noted on the final report.

Clarity within reports is crucial. Scribes are available for those Guardsmen who are unable to write their own reports. Reports taken by scribe must be noted as such when submitted.

Guard reports must be submitted within 48 hours of an incident. Any Guardsman failing to meet this deadline without first requesting an extension to this deadline will be subject to at least one demerit, as well as appropriate disciplinary action as determined by his service record.

END