Regulations

RULES AND LAWS GOVERNING THE FREE COMPANIONSHIP OF THE SWORD (CORSAIR COMPACT 3/15/95)

ARTICLE I. NAME (CORSAIR CAPTION)

The Name of the Organization shall be the "Corsairs" or alternatively, the "Free Companionship of the Sword". Its Members shall be known as "Corsairs", or "Companions", or "Free Companions".

ARTICLE II. WARNING (CORSAIR CAUTION)

Never use the "P" word. We are not P_____s!

ARTICLE III. AUTHOR (CORSAIR CHRONICLIER)

I, Captain Nikolai Maclean Belsky of the Scorpion, and currently Captain Supreme of the Corsairs, am the Scrivener of this Compact. Throughout this Document, any use of the Words "I" or "me" refer to your Author. Any use of the Word "you" refers to the Reader.

ARTICLE IV. HERALDRY (CORSAIR COLORS)

Sable Field. Estelle d'Etienne Argent in Ebime with Anchor Argent Charge.

ARTICLE V. TIMELINE (CORSAIR CHRONOLOGY)

The Corsairs are not bothered by historical Consistency. I first sailed from Moscow in 1559 with Richard Chancellor to do Service for the Queen of England. It was there that I met the Chevalier de Guise. Under his Command, I sailed to the last Siege of Constantinople in 1453. When I arrived on the Shores of the Adrian Empire, I met People from the Years of 1150 to 1550. Some of them were Siblings of mine, born of the same Father, Contemporaries in Life, but born of different Centuries. Life among the Corsairs is like a History Book. The whole Book exists all at once, and we are not required to read it in any particular Order -- if we can read at all, that is.

ARTICLE VI. ICONS OF THE CORSAIRS (CORSAIR CHARACTERS)

A. THE ADMIRAL

THE Admiral is Admiral Roger Gilligan. Over four hundred Years ago, THE Admiral led his Fleet in a desperate Battle against the Arab Armada. He was killed and set afire, but refused to stop fighting. His Skull continuing to blaze even after the last of his Flesh was gone, he slew all those he could reach before the Armada fled before him. Although not recognized by the Church, he is our Patron Saint of hopeless Battles. From Time to Time, he will appear at the Side of a particularly brave or foolish Captain who is fighting against impossible Odds. Though ever grim, THE Admiral is known for his lipless Grimace as "Jolly Roger", and we fly the Skull and Crossbones in his Honor.

B. THE ADMIRAL (M.I.A.)

The Admiral, is the Chevalier de Guise, whose real Name is unknown. Through a Mixture of Insanity, Fearsomeness, and Charisma, the Admiral attracted a Following of Corsairs and based them at Malta. For his Service to the Queen of England, he was made Lord of Cornwall. The Corsairs, when serving under the Chevalier's Command and in Service to the Royalty of Europe, became known as the Cornish Gamesmen. It was the Chevalier's mad Idea to become embroiled in the Siege of Constantinople -- on both Sides, fighting Turk, and Greek alike as suited him. THE Admiral manifested himself and fought alongside the Admiral at the Siege, but the Admiral didn't seem to notice. Of course, the Chevalier was often under the Influence of Mind-altering Substances. Perhaps he thought THE Admiral was just a bothersome Apparition born of allucinogens, and that it was actually the Chevalier himself who was slaying all those Sailors. On Arrival at the Adrian Empire, the Chevalier founded the Barony de Guise, which is now called Merkhaven. Some Years ago, the Admiral left for an extended Sabbatical on the Sea Bitch, and has not been heard from since.

C. CAPITAINE ARTAGNAN (R.I.P.)

For most of his Career, the Chevalier commanded three Ships: the Sea Bitch (the Flag Ship), the Sea Witch, and the Sea Wench. The Sea Witch and the Sea Wench each had two Captains, a Military Captain, and a Captain of Protocol. Capitaine Artagnan was the Military Captain of the Sea Witch. He was French and had an all-consuming Hatred of the Spanish. He was fond of saying "I would keel you but you are not worthy of my Steel." At one battle, Capitaine Artagnan actually grew disgusted with his Foes and began slaughtering Swine with his Sword claiming, "Even these Peegs are more deserving of my Steel than you." Tragically, the Capitaine was killed by a surprise Swordthrust from behind by a Turk at the Siege of Constantinople.

D. CAPTAIN JAMES OF MARCH (RET.)

Before making Landfall at Adria and meeting his gracious Wife, Lady Baronette Dame Gabrielle L'Epine de La Rose Rouge Belsky of March de Coirnoir, Captain James was known as James the Grim. He was Military Captain of the Sea Wench, and the only Time he smiled was when he was about to order Folks killed. He smiled twice at the Siege, and the Turks suffered for it. He was grievously wounded at that Battle, and lost his Command there, but later went on to become a well-respected Knight of the Adrian Empire, Sire of Chez Monstre, Duc of Aleon, Terre-Neuvien Chieftain of Coirnoir, and Archbishop of Notre Dame. He often longs for returning to the Sea, and can sometimes be seen stroking his Beard in Reminiscence.

E. CAPTAIN SVEN (R.I.P.)

"Sven" could not have possibly been his real Name. It is a Swedish name, but he claimed to be from Switzerland. When first signing on with the Chevalier, the Admiral asked Sven what Skills he had to offer. Sven replied that he was Swiss and that the Swiss were the World's best Sailors. The Chevalier was so impressed with Sven's awful Lying, that he made him Captain of Protocol on the Sea Wench. Sven never said much, and died anonymously in the Battle for the Scorpion at the Siege.

F. Admiral NIK (Active)

Yours truly. I was Captain of Protocol on the Sea Witch. Both the Sea Witch and the Sea Wench were lost at the Siege (not to mention the Fact that my Clothes were compleatly ruined), but two Turkish Ships were captured to replace them. I was given Military Command of one of them. My Ship sported a black Mainsail with a purple Scorpion rampant. After much thought, I named it the "Scorpion" and made the Ship's Colors my Coat of Arms. It was on that Ship that I sailed to Adria with the Chevalier. I travelled from Adria from Time to Time with the Admiral and served as Captain of Protocol for the Cornish Gamesmen in Service to the Royalty of Europe. In that Capacity, I also served as the King of Sweden's personal Guard.

G. CAPTAIN STEFAN KRALOWASKI (RET.)

Corsairs often take false Names to escape Identification. I knew that "Kralowaski" was not his real Name. "Kralowaski" is simply Polish for "Son of the Princess". Seaman Kralowaski distinguished himself at the Siege, and was given Military Command of the other Turkish Ship we captured. He named it "Da Kralowa". Da Kralowa was burned by its Crew upon Landfall at Adria, and Captain Stefan took his Sailors inland.

H. CAPTAIN STORM (RET.)

Captain Nivek Storm was no Sea Commander. In Fact, he had the worst Luck with Ships. Thrice, the Admiral gave Captain Storm command of a Ship, and thrice, Captain Storm's Ship sank, and never once during Battle. The Ships were named Rat 1, 2, and 3, respectively. After that, the Chevalier made Captain Storm Military Commander of the Cornish Gamesmen on Land in our Service to the Royalty of Europe. He served well, but fell under the Spell of Gil-Shalos, a Woman of Deep Mystic Powers. Eschewing his Duties, he sailed away with her on her Ship to unknown Lands to the North.

I. OTHER CHARACTERS

I have limited my Summaries to those of Elder Captains and Admirals, but it would be remiss of me to fail to note the illustrious Careers of other Corsairs, Gamesmen, and Characters who distinguished themselves. I note here Lieutenant Meadowtown, who was knighted for his Service to the Ladies of the King of Sweden; Lieutenant Taron Belsky Maclean, who was Commander of T'verin; Lieutenant Galedon, the invincible; Sergeant Shandell L'Heureux, who rose to incredibly lofty Heights; Gamesman Warhammer, one of the Pillars of the Corsairs; Sergeant Drakenspear, who never swerved from his duty; Sergeant Sergei a.k.a. Ensign Gerrold; Sergeant Ophidian, Corsair Extraordinaire, Gamesmen Darkstar, DeLa Costa, Rasputin, Morgana (Britton), Tachelle, Nithander and Argus; Corporal (non-com) Talon (Thingold); Master Sergeant Patrick Gullidge; the Archduke of Depravia; and the Dowager Duchess Sallelia. More recent icons include Seaman Sir Maximilian von Falkenburg, Minstrel Dame Corinne bon Falkenburg, Seaman Antonio de Lorenzo, and Minstrel Demaris d'Augustino. If I missed anyone, I'm sorry. It was stupid. I'll never do it again.

ARTICLE VII. APOLOGY (CORSAIR CONCILIATION)

When accused of anything, a Corsair will always deny it. If Denial does not work, the Corsair must say, "I'm sorry. It was stupid. I'll never do it again."

ARTICLE VIII. MOTTO (CORSAIR'S CREDO)

"Arrrrr."

ARTICLE IX. MEMBERSHIP (CORSAIR COMMUNITY)

Anyone may join the Corsairs who passes the rigorous entrance Tests. Only Admirals and Captains and those deputized by them may administer the Tests. The Corsairs are an equal Opportunity Employer. To facilitate Communication with our Deaf, all Corsairs must be able to make the ASL Sign for "Arrrrr". That is the first Test. All Corsairs must be able to fog a shiny Surface by breathing on it. That is the second Test. The second Test is to prove that the prospective Corsair is alive. No Dead may become Corsairs --except for THE Admiral, of course.

ARTICLE X. RANKS IN EUROPE (CORSAIR CONTINENTAL COMMAND)

In the Service of the Royalty of Europe (at Faires and Demos), the ranking Captain shall be known as the Commander. The Commander shall organize the Corsairs into a Chain of Command. There shall be two Captains, one of Protocol and one of Military. There shall be no more than two Lieutenants, unless Circumstances deem otherwise. There shall be Sergeants, the Senior of which shall be known as Master Sergeant. One Sergeant shall be Kitchenmaster. The Remainder shall be Privates (unless the Commander feels like making some other ranks e.g. non-coms like Corporals). Any who are knighted at the Direction of European Royalty shall never hold Rank less than Lieutenant. Sergeants shall wear blue sashes, Lieutenants red and Captains gold. Captains, Lieutenants, and the Commander are Officers. Officers must be careful how they wave their Swords lest they scratch their Privates.

ARTICLE XI. RANKS IN GENERAL (CORSAIR COMMAND)

The ranking Captain shall be known as the Captain Supreme, until such Time as the Corsairs have four Ships, at which Time the ranking Captain shall be known as the Admiral. On any Ship, any Corsair who is nominated by five Others may ask the Captain of that Ship for permission to become an Ensign. See ARTICLE XIV. PETITION (CORSAIR COMMISSION) for Details on how Permission is obtained. Upon attaining the Rank of Ensign, the Corsair may begin the Construction of a Ship. After three Months, the Ensign may ask the Captain Supreme/Admiral for Permission to take a Crew (at least ten Corsairs and a second Ensign) and set Sail. Icons of the Corsairs (Corsair Characters) need not wait three Months, but may capture a Ship immediately if they choose. Furthermore, Icon Crews need not be greater than five Members (excluding Ensigns). Icons still require permission to set Sail. Ensigns who set Sail become Captains. In no event may Ensigns set Sail if the Captain of their original Ship would have fewer than eleven Crew remaining (or five, in the case of Icons). Non-ranking male Corsairs, because they are Mariners, are called Seamen. Non-ranking female Corsairs, because of their vocal Prowess, are called Minstrels. Minstrels/Seamen wear favors in the Background Color of their Ship with one vertical Stripe in the Stripe Color of their ship. Ensigns wear two Stripes. Captains wear three Stripes. The Admiral wears four. All Corsairs who are not Seamen or Minstrels are called Officers.

ARTICLE XII. SHIPS (CORSAIR CONSTRUCTS)

Every Ship must have a rigged Sail using at least one Yard of Cloth emblazoned with the Symbol of the Ship. Every Ship must have two Colors -- Background and Stripe. Every Ship must have its own Song. Every Ship must have its own Oath and must swear the Sword Companion's Oath to the Captain Supreme/Admiral. Every Ship must have its own set of Blocks. Every Ship must have two Captains: a Military Captain, and a Captain of Protocol (except for the Captain Supreme/Admiral, who is both on the Flag Ship). Every Ship shall have a Crew List on which its Crew shall sign. Said Crew List may be in the Nature of a Corsair Contract. No Ships may be launched without meeting the above Requirements.

ARTICLE XIII. GUARDS (CORSAIR CONSTABULARY)

Corsair Camps shall always be guarded. When a Seaman is relieved, it shall be known as a "Seaman Discharge". When a Minstrel is relieved, it shall be known as a "Minstrel Cycle". In Europe, when one Private relieves another, it shall be known as a "Private Relief".

ARTICLE XIV. PETITION (CORSAIR COMMISSION)

All Petitions per Article XI by Corsairs of their Captains/Admirals must be made in open Court. Any Captain may refuse the Request of a Crewmember as per Article XI. Should this happen, the Crewmember has the right of Challenge. Challenge must also occur in open Court, and may take the following Forms:

a. Single Combat with the Captain/Admiral (or her/his Champion);
b. Mutiny: The Challenger's Followers against those of the Captain/Admiral;
c. Original Bardic;
d. Hebrew at fifty Paces;
e. Other (but it had better be good).

The Challenger chooses the Method and Style of Challenge. If the Challenger wins, the Petition is granted and no hard Feelings. If the Challenger loses, the Captain/Admiral shall mete out a Penalty as is deemed fitting at the Moment. Suggestions are:

a. Lashes from the Crew;
b. Indoctrination as the Captain/Admiral's personal Cabin Companion;
c. Induction for use as an inanimate Object for the Day (e.g. Table, Mast, etc.)
The Petition may not be renewed for one Month.

ARTICLE XV. DECORUM (CORSAIR CRITIQUE)

Never criticize the Captain Supreme/Admiral.

ARTICLE XVI. MUTINY (CORSAIR CONTRASUBORDINATION)

Now why would ye be wantin' to do that ye mutinous Dastards? Actually, an Officer's Commands may be controverted by public Challenge, but the Officer may choose the Method and Style of Challenge. An Officer may even be replaced in this Manner. No Challenges may occur in Europe (unless allowed by the Commander). Mutinies can be fun if they are rare. Don't overdo it. Ships can only function if Command Chains are relatively stable. As a Rule, Mutinies should not happen more than once a Year.

ARTICLE XVII. JUSTICE (CORSAIR COURTS)

Any Corsair has a Right to a Captain's Mast with the appropriate Captain (Military or Protocol). This is an ad hoc Court presided over by the Captain of the appropriate Ship and held at the Main Mast. Captains have unlimited Power to interpret and enforce this Compact.

ARTICLE XVIII. DRINKING (CORSAIR CONDUCT)

All Corsairs must drink. Those who do not must fake it well.

ARTICLE XIX. THE SWORD COMPANION'S OATH (CORSAIR CODE)

Captain/Admiral: I swear to be your Captain/Admiral.

Crew: Arrrrr.

ARTICLE XX. LOYALTY (CORSAIR COMEDY)

"Never let it be said that the Corsairs ever lost a Battle, because they fought on both Sides."
If in a Conflict, all the Corsairs are arrayed on one Side, one Ship must be sent to the other Side. If only one Ship is involved, the ranking Captain/Admiral must choose an appropriate Number of Corsairs to send to the other Side.

ARTICLE XXI. DIVISION OF LABOR (CORSAIR CAPTAINS)

In Challenges and War, the Military Captain is ranking. In Court, and ceremonial Situations, the Captain of Protocol is ranking. When in doubt, if given conflicting Commands, call a Captain's Mast.

ARTICLE XXII. SWORD ARCHES (CORSAIR CORRIDOR)

In Court, the Captains of Protocol should use Sword Arches wherever possible.

ARTICLE XXIII. FEUDAL OBLIGATIONS (CORSAIR CONFLICTS AND COURTESY)

It is the Duty of the Officers to maintain Discipline while not interfering with Feudal ties. This is a narrow Tightrope. Walk it carefully.

ARTICLE XXIV. TRIBUTE (CORSAIR CONTRIBUTIONS)

Our Crews are almost entirely comprised of Subjects of the Adrian Empire, whose feudal Overlords have agreed to our Activities. Be courteous. Captains, be prepared to give Gifts and Tribute to those who relax the Law on our Behalf and who allow their Vassals leave to serve on our Ships. Remember, they are hoping to profit from their Tolerance. Each Crewmember shall also be responsible to assure that his/her feudal and liege Overlords receive the appropriate Portions of that Crewmember's Share of the Plunder.

ARTICLE XXV. SONGS (CORSAIRS' CHOIR)

Everyone is in it. No one need be on Key. All Corsairs must know at least two appropriate Songs.

ARTICLE XXVI. AWARDS (CORSAIR COMMENDATIONS)

Captains and the Admiral shall make them up and give them out.

ARTICLE XXVII. SALUTE (CORSAIR COURTESY)

Crossed index and middle Fingers to the Temple, or in Cases of extreme Enthusiasm, crossed index and middle Fingers on high with a hearty "Arrrrr!"

ARTICLE XXVIII. CHILDREN (CORSAIR CORRUPTION)

We have a lot of Korsair Kidds. Someone needs to take charge of them on every Ship and make sure that they are properly corrupted. The Youth have much Energy and lots of raw Talent for Mischief and Mayhem. The Trick is to harness this Energy and Skill for Profit. Each Ship's Captain will assign at least one Adult Kidder who shall be entrusted with this crucial Function.

ARTICLE XXVIII. AMENDMENTS (CORSAIR CAPTAINS' COUNCIL)

Captains and the Admiral shall have the Power to meet and change the Compact by Majority Agreement. Meetings need not be formal.

We are the Chivalry of the Seas.


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		RULES AND LAWS GOVERNING THE FREE COMPANIONSHIP OF THE SWORD (CORSAIR COMPACT 3/15/95) ARTICLE I. NAME (CORSAIR CAPTION) The Name of the Organization shall be the "Corsairs" or alternatively, the "Free Companionship of the Sword". Its Members shall be known as "Corsairs", or "Companions", or "Free Companions". ARTICLE II. WARNING (CORSAIR CAUTION) Never use the "P" word. We are not P_____s! ARTICLE III. AUTHOR (CORSAIR CHRONICLIER) I, Captain Nikolai Maclean Belsky of the Scorpion, and currently Captain Supreme of the Corsairs, am the Scrivener of this Compact. Throughout this Document, any use of the Words "I" or "me" refer to your Author. Any use of the Word "you" refers to the Reader. ARTICLE IV. HERALDRY (CORSAIR COLORS) Sable Field. Estelle d'Etienne Argent in Ebime with Anchor Argent Charge. ARTICLE V. TIMELINE (CORSAIR CHRONOLOGY) The Corsairs are not bothered by historical Consistency. I first sailed from Moscow in 1559 with Richard Chancellor to do Service for the Queen of England. It was there that I met the Chevalier de Guise. Under his Command, I sailed to the last Siege of Constantinople in 1453. When I arrived on the Shores of the Adrian Empire, I met People from the Years of 1150 to 1550. Some of them were Siblings of mine, born of the same Father, Contemporaries in Life, but born of different Centuries. Life among the Corsairs is like a History Book. The whole Book exists all at once, and we are not required to read it in any particular Order -- if we can read at all, that is. ARTICLE VI. ICONS OF THE CORSAIRS (CORSAIR CHARACTERS) A. THE ADMIRAL THE Admiral is Admiral Roger Gilligan. Over four hundred Years ago, THE Admiral led his Fleet in a desperate Battle against the Arab Armada. He was killed and set afire, but refused to stop fighting. His Skull continuing to blaze even after the last of his Flesh was gone, he slew all those he could reach before the Armada fled before him. Although not recognized by the Church, he is our Patron Saint of hopeless Battles. From Time to Time, he will appear at the Side of a particularly brave or foolish Captain who is fighting against impossible Odds. Though ever grim, THE Admiral is known for his lipless Grimace as "Jolly Roger", and we fly the Skull and Crossbones in his Honor. B. THE ADMIRAL (M.I.A.) The Admiral, is the Chevalier de Guise, whose real Name is unknown. Through a Mixture of Insanity, Fearsomeness, and Charisma, the Admiral attracted a Following of Corsairs and based them at Malta. For his Service to the Queen of England, he was made Lord of Cornwall. The Corsairs, when serving under the Chevalier's Command and in Service to the Royalty of Europe, became known as the Cornish Gamesmen. It was the Chevalier's mad Idea to become embroiled in the Siege of Constantinople -- on both Sides, fighting Turk, and Greek alike as suited him. THE Admiral manifested himself and fought alongside the Admiral at the Siege, but the Admiral didn't seem to notice. Of course, the Chevalier was often under the Influence of Mind-altering Substances. Perhaps he thought THE Admiral was just a bothersome Apparition born of allucinogens, and that it was actually the Chevalier himself who was slaying all those Sailors. On Arrival at the Adrian Empire, the Chevalier founded the Barony de Guise, which is now called Merkhaven. Some Years ago, the Admiral left for an extended Sabbatical on the Sea Bitch, and has not been heard from since. C. CAPITAINE ARTAGNAN (R.I.P.) For most of his Career, the Chevalier commanded three Ships: the Sea Bitch (the Flag Ship), the Sea Witch, and the Sea Wench. The Sea Witch and the Sea Wench each had two Captains, a Military Captain, and a Captain of Protocol. Capitaine Artagnan was the Military Captain of the Sea Witch. He was French and had an all-consuming Hatred of the Spanish. He was fond of saying "I would keel you but you are not worthy of my Steel." At one battle, Capitaine Artagnan actually grew disgusted with his Foes and began slaughtering Swine with his Sword claiming, "Even these Peegs are more deserving of my Steel than you." Tragically, the Capitaine was killed by a surprise Swordthrust from behind by a Turk at the Siege of Constantinople. D. CAPTAIN JAMES OF MARCH (RET.) Before making Landfall at Adria and meeting his gracious Wife, Lady Baronette Dame Gabrielle L'Epine de La Rose Rouge Belsky of March de Coirnoir, Captain James was known as James the Grim. He was Military Captain of the Sea Wench, and the only Time he smiled was when he was about to order Folks killed. He smiled twice at the Siege, and the Turks suffered for it. He was grievously wounded at that Battle, and lost his Command there, but later went on to become a well-respected Knight of the Adrian Empire, Sire of Chez Monstre, Duc of Aleon, Terre-Neuvien Chieftain of Coirnoir, and Archbishop of Notre Dame. He often longs for returning to the Sea, and can sometimes be seen stroking his Beard in Reminiscence. E. CAPTAIN SVEN (R.I.P.) "Sven" could not have possibly been his real Name. It is a Swedish name, but he claimed to be from Switzerland. When first signing on with the Chevalier, the Admiral asked Sven what Skills he had to offer. Sven replied that he was Swiss and that the Swiss were the World's best Sailors. The Chevalier was so impressed with Sven's awful Lying, that he made him Captain of Protocol on the Sea Wench. Sven never said much, and died anonymously in the Battle for the Scorpion at the Siege. F. Admiral NIK (Active) Yours truly. I was Captain of Protocol on the Sea Witch. Both the Sea Witch and the Sea Wench were lost at the Siege (not to mention the Fact that my Clothes were compleatly ruined), but two Turkish Ships were captured to replace them. I was given Military Command of one of them. My Ship sported a black Mainsail with a purple Scorpion rampant. After much thought, I named it the "Scorpion" and made the Ship's Colors my Coat of Arms. It was on that Ship that I sailed to Adria with the Chevalier. I travelled from Adria from Time to Time with the Admiral and served as Captain of Protocol for the Cornish Gamesmen in Service to the Royalty of Europe. In that Capacity, I also served as the King of Sweden's personal Guard. G. CAPTAIN STEFAN KRALOWASKI (RET.) Corsairs often take false Names to escape Identification. I knew that "Kralowaski" was not his real Name. "Kralowaski" is simply Polish for "Son of the Princess". Seaman Kralowaski distinguished himself at the Siege, and was given Military Command of the other Turkish Ship we captured. He named it "Da Kralowa". Da Kralowa was burned by its Crew upon Landfall at Adria, and Captain Stefan took his Sailors inland. H. CAPTAIN STORM (RET.) Captain Nivek Storm was no Sea Commander. In Fact, he had the worst Luck with Ships. Thrice, the Admiral gave Captain Storm command of a Ship, and thrice, Captain Storm's Ship sank, and never once during Battle. The Ships were named Rat 1, 2, and 3, respectively. After that, the Chevalier made Captain Storm Military Commander of the Cornish Gamesmen on Land in our Service to the Royalty of Europe. He served well, but fell under the Spell of Gil-Shalos, a Woman of Deep Mystic Powers. Eschewing his Duties, he sailed away with her on her Ship to unknown Lands to the North. I. OTHER CHARACTERS I have limited my Summaries to those of Elder Captains and Admirals, but it would be remiss of me to fail to note the illustrious Careers of other Corsairs, Gamesmen, and Characters who distinguished themselves. I note here Lieutenant Meadowtown, who was knighted for his Service to the Ladies of the King of Sweden; Lieutenant Taron Belsky Maclean, who was Commander of T'verin; Lieutenant Galedon, the invincible; Sergeant Shandell L'Heureux, who rose to incredibly lofty Heights; Gamesman Warhammer, one of the Pillars of the Corsairs; Sergeant Drakenspear, who never swerved from his duty; Sergeant Sergei a.k.a. Ensign Gerrold; Sergeant Ophidian, Corsair Extraordinaire, Gamesmen Darkstar, DeLa Costa, Rasputin, Morgana (Britton), Tachelle, Nithander and Argus; Corporal (non-com) Talon (Thingold); Master Sergeant Patrick Gullidge; the Archduke of Depravia; and the Dowager Duchess Sallelia. More recent icons include Seaman Sir Maximilian von Falkenburg, Minstrel Dame Corinne bon Falkenburg, Seaman Antonio de Lorenzo, and Minstrel Demaris d'Augustino. If I missed anyone, I'm sorry. It was stupid. I'll never do it again. ARTICLE VII. APOLOGY (CORSAIR CONCILIATION) When accused of anything, a Corsair will always deny it. If Denial does not work, the Corsair must say, "I'm sorry. It was stupid. I'll never do it again." ARTICLE VIII. MOTTO (CORSAIR'S CREDO) "Arrrrr." ARTICLE IX. MEMBERSHIP (CORSAIR COMMUNITY) Anyone may join the Corsairs who passes the rigorous entrance Tests. Only Admirals and Captains and those deputized by them may administer the Tests. The Corsairs are an equal Opportunity Employer. To facilitate Communication with our Deaf, all Corsairs must be able to make the ASL Sign for "Arrrrr". That is the first Test. All Corsairs must be able to fog a shiny Surface by breathing on it. That is the second Test. The second Test is to prove that the prospective Corsair is alive. No Dead may become Corsairs --except for THE Admiral, of course. ARTICLE X. RANKS IN EUROPE (CORSAIR CONTINENTAL COMMAND) In the Service of the Royalty of Europe (at Faires and Demos), the ranking Captain shall be known as the Commander. The Commander shall organize the Corsairs into a Chain of Command. There shall be two Captains, one of Protocol and one of Military. There shall be no more than two Lieutenants, unless Circumstances deem otherwise. There shall be Sergeants, the Senior of which shall be known as Master Sergeant. One Sergeant shall be Kitchenmaster. The Remainder shall be Privates (unless the Commander feels like making some other ranks e.g. non-coms like Corporals). Any who are knighted at the Direction of European Royalty shall never hold Rank less than Lieutenant. Sergeants shall wear blue sashes, Lieutenants red and Captains gold. Captains, Lieutenants, and the Commander are Officers. Officers must be careful how they wave their Swords lest they scratch their Privates. ARTICLE XI. RANKS IN GENERAL (CORSAIR COMMAND) The ranking Captain shall be known as the Captain Supreme, until such Time as the Corsairs have four Ships, at which Time the ranking Captain shall be known as the Admiral. On any Ship, any Corsair who is nominated by five Others may ask the Captain of that Ship for permission to become an Ensign. See ARTICLE XIV. PETITION (CORSAIR COMMISSION) for Details on how Permission is obtained. Upon attaining the Rank of Ensign, the Corsair may begin the Construction of a Ship. After three Months, the Ensign may ask the Captain Supreme/Admiral for Permission to take a Crew (at least ten Corsairs and a second Ensign) and set Sail. Icons of the Corsairs (Corsair Characters) need not wait three Months, but may capture a Ship immediately if they choose. Furthermore, Icon Crews need not be greater than five Members (excluding Ensigns). Icons still require permission to set Sail. Ensigns who set Sail become Captains. In no event may Ensigns set Sail if the Captain of their original Ship would have fewer than eleven Crew remaining (or five, in the case of Icons). Non-ranking male Corsairs, because they are Mariners, are called Seamen. Non-ranking female Corsairs, because of their vocal Prowess, are called Minstrels. Minstrels/Seamen wear favors in the Background Color of their Ship with one vertical Stripe in the Stripe Color of their ship. Ensigns wear two Stripes. Captains wear three Stripes. The Admiral wears four. All Corsairs who are not Seamen or Minstrels are called Officers. ARTICLE XII. SHIPS (CORSAIR CONSTRUCTS) Every Ship must have a rigged Sail using at least one Yard of Cloth emblazoned with the Symbol of the Ship. Every Ship must have two Colors -- Background and Stripe. Every Ship must have its own Song. Every Ship must have its own Oath and must swear the Sword Companion's Oath to the Captain Supreme/Admiral. Every Ship must have its own set of Blocks. Every Ship must have two Captains: a Military Captain, and a Captain of Protocol (except for the Captain Supreme/Admiral, who is both on the Flag Ship). Every Ship shall have a Crew List on which its Crew shall sign. Said Crew List may be in the Nature of a Corsair Contract. No Ships may be launched without meeting the above Requirements. ARTICLE XIII. GUARDS (CORSAIR CONSTABULARY) Corsair Camps shall always be guarded. When a Seaman is relieved, it shall be known as a "Seaman Discharge". When a Minstrel is relieved, it shall be known as a "Minstrel Cycle". In Europe, when one Private relieves another, it shall be known as a "Private Relief". ARTICLE XIV. PETITION (CORSAIR COMMISSION) All Petitions per Article XI by Corsairs of their Captains/Admirals must be made in open Court. Any Captain may refuse the Request of a Crewmember as per Article XI. Should this happen, the Crewmember has the right of Challenge. Challenge must also occur in open Court, and may take the following Forms: a. Single Combat with the Captain/Admiral (or her/his Champion); b. Mutiny: The Challenger's Followers against those of the Captain/Admiral; c. Original Bardic; d. Hebrew at fifty Paces; e. Other (but it had better be good). The Challenger chooses the Method and Style of Challenge. If the Challenger wins, the Petition is granted and no hard Feelings. If the Challenger loses, the Captain/Admiral shall mete out a Penalty as is deemed fitting at the Moment. Suggestions are: a. Lashes from the Crew; b. Indoctrination as the Captain/Admiral's personal Cabin Companion; c. Induction for use as an inanimate Object for the Day (e.g. Table, Mast, etc.) The Petition may not be renewed for one Month. ARTICLE XV. DECORUM (CORSAIR CRITIQUE) Never criticize the Captain Supreme/Admiral. ARTICLE XVI. MUTINY (CORSAIR CONTRASUBORDINATION) Now why would ye be wantin' to do that ye mutinous Dastards? Actually, an Officer's Commands may be controverted by public Challenge, but the Officer may choose the Method and Style of Challenge. An Officer may even be replaced in this Manner. No Challenges may occur in Europe (unless allowed by the Commander). Mutinies can be fun if they are rare. Don't overdo it. Ships can only function if Command Chains are relatively stable. As a Rule, Mutinies should not happen more than once a Year. ARTICLE XVII. JUSTICE (CORSAIR COURTS) Any Corsair has a Right to a Captain's Mast with the appropriate Captain (Military or Protocol). This is an ad hoc Court presided over by the Captain of the appropriate Ship and held at the Main Mast. Captains have unlimited Power to interpret and enforce this Compact. ARTICLE XVIII. DRINKING (CORSAIR CONDUCT) All Corsairs must drink. Those who do not must fake it well. ARTICLE XIX. THE SWORD COMPANION'S OATH (CORSAIR CODE) Captain/Admiral: I swear to be your Captain/Admiral. Crew: Arrrrr. ARTICLE XX. LOYALTY (CORSAIR COMEDY) "Never let it be said that the Corsairs ever lost a Battle, because they fought on both Sides." If in a Conflict, all the Corsairs are arrayed on one Side, one Ship must be sent to the other Side. If only one Ship is involved, the ranking Captain/Admiral must choose an appropriate Number of Corsairs to send to the other Side. ARTICLE XXI. DIVISION OF LABOR (CORSAIR CAPTAINS) In Challenges and War, the Military Captain is ranking. In Court, and ceremonial Situations, the Captain of Protocol is ranking. When in doubt, if given conflicting Commands, call a Captain's Mast. ARTICLE XXII. SWORD ARCHES (CORSAIR CORRIDOR) In Court, the Captains of Protocol should use Sword Arches wherever possible. ARTICLE XXIII. FEUDAL OBLIGATIONS (CORSAIR CONFLICTS AND COURTESY) It is the Duty of the Officers to maintain Discipline while not interfering with Feudal ties. This is a narrow Tightrope. Walk it carefully. ARTICLE XXIV. TRIBUTE (CORSAIR CONTRIBUTIONS) Our Crews are almost entirely comprised of Subjects of the Adrian Empire, whose feudal Overlords have agreed to our Activities. Be courteous. Captains, be prepared to give Gifts and Tribute to those who relax the Law on our Behalf and who allow their Vassals leave to serve on our Ships. Remember, they are hoping to profit from their Tolerance. Each Crewmember shall also be responsible to assure that his/her feudal and liege Overlords receive the appropriate Portions of that Crewmember's Share of the Plunder. ARTICLE XXV. SONGS (CORSAIRS' CHOIR) Everyone is in it. No one need be on Key. All Corsairs must know at least two appropriate Songs. ARTICLE XXVI. AWARDS (CORSAIR COMMENDATIONS) Captains and the Admiral shall make them up and give them out. ARTICLE XXVII. SALUTE (CORSAIR COURTESY) Crossed index and middle Fingers to the Temple, or in Cases of extreme Enthusiasm, crossed index and middle Fingers on high with a hearty "Arrrrr!" ARTICLE XXVIII. CHILDREN (CORSAIR CORRUPTION) We have a lot of Korsair Kidds. Someone needs to take charge of them on every Ship and make sure that they are properly corrupted. The Youth have much Energy and lots of raw Talent for Mischief and Mayhem. The Trick is to harness this Energy and Skill for Profit. Each Ship's Captain will assign at least one Adult Kidder who shall be entrusted with this crucial Function. ARTICLE XXVIII. AMENDMENTS (CORSAIR CAPTAINS' COUNCIL) Captains and the Admiral shall have the Power to meet and change the Compact by Majority Agreement. Meetings need not be formal. We are the Chivalry of the Seas.



		For Domain Rules for the Adrian Empire, click here.