Glory follows virtue as if it was its shadow
The Shadow Brigade is the Shadow Force's internal security apparatus as well as a militia unit that takes the field with the rest of the Dark Empire's military might. The Brigade specializes in protection of dignitaries as well as more unorthodox military operations.
Structure
Ranks:
Disciple - These individuals are Brigade members in training, under the command of the Weaponsmaster for the duration of their disciple period.
Guardian - These are the rank and file members of the Brigade, they have not yet specialized in their tasks and can be utilized in a range of functions.
Sentinel - These specialized Guardians have chosen the path of special field tactics, and are mostly utilized in conjunction with Steel Force operations.
Watchmen - These specialized Guardians have chosen the path of internal security, and their duties are predominantly composed of bodyguard and internal investigative tasks.
Officer Ranks
Weaponsmaster - This officer deals with the training of the new disciples and Guardians as well as assists the Brigadier.
Senschal - This individual is chosen from the ranks of the Sentinels to be in charge of their continued training and deployment in the field. This officer reports directly to the Brigadier.
Warden - This officer is chosen from the ranks of the Watchmen to monitor their training as well as their missions. Reports directly to the Brigadier.
Brigadier - Overall commander of the Shadow Brigade, ultimately responsible for day to day operations and field operations. Reports directly to the Shadowlord.
Leadership
As the Brigade has an obvious martial bend to it, the unit has a rigid heirarchy. The Brigadier has control of the unit with three officers to assist them in the task. Each officer has a specific function: Warden runs the Watchmen, Senschal runs the Sentinels, and the Weaponsmaster deals with the Disciples and Guardians.
The Shadow Brigade's Uniform Code:
Basic dress uniform is dark gray tunic with black pants, black tefusang leather knee boots, matching gloves, and a long field cloak. Each branch has distinctive markings. Guardians utilize the basic uniform, Sentinels have a crimson stripe down the hemline of their pants, and Watchmen have a gold stripe in the same location. All public members will also have a patch on their left shoulder depicting the Brigade, an obsidian black sword on a field bisected in gules (crimson) and or (gold) in a party per bend sinister style. Officers will have their color outlining their patch (Senechal = Crimson, Warden = Gold, Weaponsmaster = Black), and the Brigadier will have his outlined in silver.
Even out of dress uniform, all members will be required to wear their unit patch on their left shoulder. This could be substituted for engraving onto metal pauldrons or embossing onto hardened leather armor. In short, they will always carry their mark proudly and openly.
Code of Ethics / Rules of Engagement:
1 ) Brigade First. - The strength of the Brigade comes from our unity.
2 ) Respect the hierarchy. - Never publicly disagree with your leaders, use private conversations to express your dissent.
3 ) Do not succumb to taunting or emotions. - Restraint shows inner strength.
4 ) Use your head. - This is your most powerful weapon, if you out think your opponent, you outlive your opponent.
5 ) Be mindful of your actions. - You are always viewed as representatives of the Brigade and the Dark Empire. Act accordingly.
6 ) Continue your training. - Always better yourself.
7 ) Avoid engagement in personal duels. - Personal duels lead to personal grudges. We are united as the Brigade, not individual brawlers.
8 ) Assist other Imperialists in their time of need. - We need to protect our brothers and sisters in cause.
9 ) Vigilance in your tasks. - No matter the task, the Brigade expects success. Even small gains are gains for all.
10) Protect your charges with your life. - Self-explanatory.
11) The Brigade has one commander. - Brigade orders will always come from either the Brigadier personally or though a pre-determined deputy.
Volunteering for the Brigade:
Requirements for Selection:
1) Strong RP skills
2) Mature mindset
3) Quick thinking
Expectations for Shadow Brigade members:
A) Loyalty to the Brigade and the Empire
B) Vigilance in their tasks
C) Constant drive for training
D) Self-reliance
To join the Shadow Brigade, register an account at the Shadow Force Forums and post your application in the letterbox or contact one of the members in game.
Disciple Training:
Consists of two parts.
1) Special task - Task given to disciple by the Brigadier, normally used to test the disciple's thought process or social skills
2) Stat requirements - Due to the physical nature of the position, all Brigade members will need to achieve the following stats: STR: 150 AGL: 150 END: 130 [Does not require Winch Access]
Advancement:
Upon completion of their disciple training, members will attain the rank of Guardian.
Guardian rank will last until the individual has attained a given # of points (25) OR extraordinary service.
Points will be awarded for meritorious service, and deducted for transgressions or errors in judgment.
Awarded in 1,2,or 5 point allotments, and deductions would represent the grievous nature of the offense.
Awards:
1) Objectives Completed
2) Objectives Completed with additional benefits.
5) Major Windfall for the Brigade or Empire
Once the individual had achieved their next step, they choose their branch of service. These individuals are expected to maintain certain standards of discipline and appearance at all times.
Sentinels are the commando members. Their interaction will primarily be with the Steel Force as a fast strike and commando tactical unit.
Watchmen are the bodyguard members, tasked with the personal safety of Shadow Force and other Imperial dignitaries. Also tasked as internal security for Shadow Force.