Imperial Magistrate

HISTORY

The founding of an Empire is a joyous occasion, one that brings with it the prospect of a better life. To unify under one banner is to seek a greater future together, guided by the one who has garnered the faith of countless people: the Rindai. But as an empire grows the voice of its ruler can only reach so far. It was with this in mind that the Imperial Magistrates were founded to become the embodiment of the Rindai's will, their sole purpose to keep order across the land.
It is not a position to be applied for lightly, as it requires strength of both body and mind. Because each new Rindai brings with them different ideas of order, it is important that any magistrate have a firm sense of virtue. These honorable and venerable qualities have led many idealistic soldiers to apply for membership. However, the organization is not all that it seems: as generations have come and gone, there have been those who have taken the post with less than altruistic motivations. In the wrong hands, the easily abused power that comes with the rank in combination with its long tenure can throw into question the position's ability to fulfill their primary duty in the minds of the Empire's citizens.

RECEPTION

A magistrate's presence is generally greeted with acceptance and appreciation. Most people see their arrivals as one of peace, as their duty is to restore order where it has waned. However, on the outermost reaches of Kurinko, there are those who receive them with a justified distaste. Many of the more corrupt of this order have dug their roots deep in such fringe locations, far from the eyes of their reigning sovereign. Be it for their own gain or simple malice such individuals tarnish the otherwise good name of the position and leave some to wonder if the Empire has stretched itself too thin.

HIERARCHY

As the literal embodiment of order there are precious few an Imperial Magistrate answers to. As they are considered an extension of the Rindai's court they fall outside of military jurisdiction, and as such have their own chain of command:

Rindai

↓

Sun and Moon

↓

Imperial Magistrate

↓

Imperial Herald

Qualifications

Applicants must have served at least five years in the military while maintaining little to no infractions in their personal files. They must also be well-learned, preferably in the areas of philosophy and Bushido. It is preferred that any candidate have no history of dissension against the current Rindai as that could conflict with the purpose of maintaining order name in their name.

Requirements

All who seek to bear the badge of magistrate must pass a physical test and written exam. Combat is generally unexpected in the daily duties of this position however it is possible to be called to battle against otherworld beasts or to quell boarder incursions.
A keen sense of judgement is expected due to the philosophical and subjective nature of enforcing order, which is why the written exam is littered with questions regarding morality and how to act according to the tenants of Bushido. However some applicants have been known to line the pockets of the proctor, leading to magistrates who relay on their brawn to force citizens into compliance. While the insult is never spoken directly to their faces, these types of enforcers have become known as brutestrates.

Duties

Due to the broad nature of their founding principle there are a variety of duties that can fall under the purview of the magistrates. Most importantly they are to travel through the various territories to make sure balance and order prevail, especially in areas where rifts may have opened. Magistrates must also assess if each village, town and city they visit are operating in accordance to the will of the Rindai. Should they find such locations are not living up the expectations of their ruler they empowered by imperial decree to take charge of the area and enact reform.

Accoutrements & Equipment

Any who bear this title wear a neatly pressed shawl that hangs over one shoulder, fasted in place by a fibula shaped to resemble a Lilsanthie.

Notable Holders

Heito Rai - The first to bear the title of Imperial Magistrate, he set the standards for expected behavior and execution of the position. Eventually Rai became so prolific that he was elevated to the title of Sun. Due to his example and exemplary service all Magistrates are addressed as Heito when spoken to.

Type

Civic, Law

Status

Active

Creation

Declaration of Imperial Order

Form of Address

Heito

Alternative Naming

Brutestrate (insult)

Source of Authority

Rindai

Length of Term

15 years