Neutrality of the NightWatch

by **smitsmit** Sun Jun 19 2011, 18:19

Neutrality of the NightWatch.
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As all members of this organization should know, the NightWatch is considered a neutral organization. We are the city guardians, and as such, are expected to act at a higher level than most vampires in this city. A neutral vampire is non biased, acts with good judgement, and always thinks their actions through before committing them, in respect to their possible ramifications.

Our organization is highlighted on its neutrality, and its operation in the services it provides to the city.

Members are expected to portray themselves in a professional matter in all public dealings associated with the NightWatch. This includes professionalism in papers, other houses, and the taverns. Even if an issue is not related to the NightWatch, professionalism is still expected in these areas.

There are some exceptions to our neutrality in which weapon use is granted, although it is usually intented to be a last resort depending on the situation. NightWatch members are permitted to take leave to engage in conflicts of their personal clans, family lines, or defence from personal attacks (which you did not start or hit first, and multiple attacks are occurring. Ideally after the first hit, the individual should be inquired about the reasoning for the hit to determine if it is intentional and continues. (If so, they should also be called into the NightWatch for mediation so the situation can be resolved with minimal damage) We are always here to help.

In all cases, these personal conflicts (of any type) should never be brought into Nightwatch dealings. If the same, or similar matter is brought up in the NightWatch, you're expected by oath to recuse yourself from the matter in regards to the NightWatch, and allow another officer to handle it.

Nightwatch Administration should also be informed of all conflicts with the exception of ones which would jeopardize personal clan/faction security.

All members are expected to handle unprovoked situations in a clearheaded manner. If something occurs which frustrates you. The first thing to do is STOP, then think carefully about how you will decide to handle this situation. If you need assistance, we are here to help. It should be done in a professional manner, regardless of what happened. The NightWatch is designed for us to act as a unity.

Addendum: Beyond what was previously stated, There are other obvious times where this agreement is not in full effect in regards to neutrality. The personal etiquette and expected behavior aspects will always remain, however the use of weapons is sometimes merited by any member (unless you are a full neutral) in the following situations:

Article 1: Cases of severe graveyard/vigil desecration.
Article 2: A document appointed by the CLA for use of minimal force to help in getting someone to respond and report in for mediation, when we've been ignored. Or, if mediation has failed.)
Article 3: If the NightWatch as an entirety is under attack.
Article 5: Amendment April 3 2013 - defence of training students from unjust attacks.

In all above cases, the use of weapons should be a last resort, and mediation should be a primary value unless it has already failed, or the necessity of weapon use is time sensitive.

Article 4: Amendment May 23, 2012 - Internal weapon use (Weapons used by NightWatch on NightWatch members.) There are three circumstances in which this is allowable.

1: For the purpose of advanced skill training it is acceptable if both parties within the NightWatch provide written notice beforehand. This must take place between a NW instructor, and a fully powered graduate student.

2: The use of weapons by NightWatch members in duel tournaments for fun sport is also permitted, However, general duels are generally not acceptable for participation by NightWatch members and will be dealt with on a case by case basis.

3: If two members recuse during a war, and their clan/faction status puts them on opposite sides of the battlefield.