Oath of Labor

The Religion of Invictus states that one owns the profits of their labor. While Veren citizens are entailed to the 'fruits of labor' doctrine of the Veren church, The early nobility found that granting everyone, espically conquered pagans the same access lead to rebellion and loss in revenue. Therefore, Second class citizens and recently conquered people are not entitled to normal citizens. Where a normal Veren worker, would the tools, land, or animals he works with, a second class citizen does not. However, Invictus teaches that one must be able to earn such things, so the Oath of Labor was made.

Purpose

An oath of labor is a contract that is used to bind an artisan or worker (and their assets) to a higher artisan or lord. The document represents any civil contract between employee and employer. It is used mainly as a way to employee the landless masses, without having to grant a portion of the resources to them. The contract forfeits their right to the land or property of the employer, in exchange for pay, food, housing, and training. Workers under contracts may keep the tools provided, and free citizens are allowed to keep a percentage their labor has earned. Once under contract the person is treated as a tool of the employer. Therefore if an employer pledges their resources, the worker is pledged as well. Slaves do not gain rewards for their labors, like second class citizens, rather their societal debt is payed off.

Document Structure

Clauses

Duration: The amount of time the contract covers. This ranges widely, some contracts are for a week, others can be multigenrational. Obligation: The obligation sections details the general duties of the worker. It also includes the training and tools they will receive. In addition it outlines hours worked, and behavior expected from both employee and employer. Compensation: The monthly pay expected, commission, housing, and food are covered here. In addition to fees for tools and other such things. It also outlines bonuses for length of service. Each additional year of service grants a percentage of pay that is given as a lump sum at the end of contract. Termination: This summarizes the contract. Details about what is granted to both parties upon termination, including reasons for extensions and penalties. Commission Clause: Parents may rent their children to artisans, and gain a percentage of their fee.

Caveats

"A contract may be extended if an employer has an outstanding contract. The employer may hold the employee for an addtional 5 years or the contract completion."

Historical Details

Public Reaction

Due to the tendency for Patrons to deny pay or commission to citizens, the Church of Invictus allows the branding of skin or seals to be placed on oathcloaks representing years under a specific contract.

Type

Contract, Civil

Medium

Paper