The King's Introduction

Swords High, Well Met, and Hello.

I am King {=}Poolfury, ruler of The Equalizers, and webmaster of this site. My introduction to the rules of The Kingdom has been posted to give you an insight to my ideals, and my vision for The Equalizers.

There have been arguments made about why guilds have rules, some more strict than others, and why players would want to join a guild to follow a set of rules and have their play potentially regulated. Some eloquent arguments made have been from members of "Anarchy Based" PK guilds. These PK guilds stress total chaos, and a "do whatever you want" attitude. Yet if you notice, these guilds have webpages, members listings, and rank structures. Their members generally follow the dictation of the guild leaders. These guilds follow certain guidelines for recruitment, keeping passwords secret, following a chain of command, etc. What I am saying is that even chaotic guilds have rules, whether explicit or implied.

I am a believer that people look for rule sets to follow. Throughout the history of Mankind, people have always come together in groups, have determined leaders of these groups, and have created certain rules for living and surviving. There has never been a successful group of humans who have not developed some type of organization. It is our instinct to do so.

In the world of Internet gaming, players sometimes look for an added dimension to playing the games they enjoy. Guilds add this extra dimension. Guilds serve several purposes. They gather players together for multi-player gaming. With access to other players, people can more easily arrange games in a multi-player capacity. Guilds help establish friendships. Members often get to know each other well, and can develop friendships and assistance networks across miles. Guilds add a system of reward and recognition. As many guilds offer medals and/or ranks based on performance and dedication, players are able to see the work they put into being the best they can be at gaming rewarded and recognized. Guilds add a new life to the games themselves. Playing a game is challenging and fun. Once a player has become intimately familiar with a game however, the freshness of the game and the challenge of new experiences fades. Guilds add a new life to the gaming experience. The Game becomes more than a game, but instead the level field of play for inter-guild activities. The challenge no longer needs to rest in the game itself, but in the reactions of members outside the game in relation to the guild.

So, are the Equalizers rules strict? I would say no, many will say yes. As I had created many new rules since our beginning, I have resolved to increase the restrictions, and enforce the rules more ferociously. Has {=} lost members because of this? Yes. But the members that have remained and many who have since joined definitely appreciate the fact that their efforts are worthy of the greatest guild ever known on Bnet or any other Internet gaming system.

What is the phenomenon with The Equalizers? The Equalizers have a strong member base, and have acquired many powerful allies. For the most part, we are respected not only by allies and other PKK guilds, but also by our enemies. The key to this is our system of Honor and Discipline. Many guilds claim to be honorable, but the Equalizers are the Hallmark of Honor. It infuses everything we do, and is what people remember most about us after they have met us. There will be no acceptance of dishonor in The Equalizers.

Another key difference in The Equalizers, as compared to many other guilds, is that there is no one above the law. As King, it is my responsibility to uphold and enforce the laws. Yet, I am subject to the same laws as every member. If I am a leader, then I am a leader by example, not decree. There are no favors for friends, and I cannot, nor will I violate the laws that I have laid forth. I have listened to what my members have asked for. These are the members that attend meetings, post at the boards, and participate within the guild. They have asked for stiffer regulations and their will has been realized.

I hope our rules breakdown is convenient and clear. If you are planning on joining The Equalizers, are already a member, are considering an alliance, or just want to know what we are about, the rules are required, necessary reading.

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General Rules

1) Participation: All Equalizers need to be active. It is your responsibility to remain an asset to the guild. If your time is limited or you have need of some time off, you may request a leave of absence by visiting the Member Utilities section.

2) Inactivity: Inactive members will be removed. Members who fail to perform the minimum participation requirements will be demoted or removed as the rank and circumstances warrant.

3) Returning members: Members that leave under good circumstances are usually welcomed back into the guild. If a member gives notice, they will most likely be listed as an Honored Former Member. If an Honored Former Member returns, all previously earned medals will be listed in their member page. If a member leaves without notice or is removed due to inactivity, they may return if approved, but will do so without any of the medals they earned before. ALL members who return must do so at entry level and are subject to the same probationary period as all new members. Ranks must be re-earned. No exceptions.

4) Banishment: Members who were removed for treason or misconduct strikes are considered exiled or banished and will not be permitted to return. Only the King may waive this decision..

5) Check-Ins: All Equalizers must check-in at the Check-in board once per week. This is the minimum activity level requirement. Violators will receive a strike per missed Check-In. 3 strikes means demotion or removal dependent upon rank. When a member checks in at the Check-in board, all previous Check-in Strikes will be cleared. This means a member must be inactive for 3-6 consecutive weeks to be removed due to inactivity. All members at the rank of Page or higher will be demoted to the rank of Citizen and will stay there until they check back in or unless 3 more weeks pass at which time they will be removed from the Clan Roster. Once a member drops to the rank of Citizen from a higher Rank, then they will need to Check-In the amount of times missed to reclaim the previously held Rank. If it is an Officer Rank, then it will be decided on by the High Council as to what course of action needs to be taken to reclaim that Rank. If you are currently or become a Citizen due to inactivity and miss 3 weeks, then you are dismissed from the Clan and you will need to reapply directly to the King with a High Council vote to be brought back in and will follow rule 3 listed above of Returning members.

As of July 28th, 2007 if you have not posted ANY posts after joining our clan within the first 4 weeks and have 3 strikes, then you will be removed. Also, EVEYONE who starts with us will NOT have to Chek-In for the first FULL week after starting unless you join on a Saturday. In that case you will have that entire week for free where you will not have to Check-In. This is to give people a full MONTH to get into the habit of Checking In. If you have any question or concerns on this subject, then please let me know ASAP. These two rule changes wil go into affect immediately.

6) Strikes: Equalizers may be issued a strike for inactivity, insubordination, violation of the Laws or other improprieties. Strikes may only be issued by the King, and may only be removed by the King. Superiors may request Strikes be issued to members for various reasons such as failure to follow the Chain of command, unresponsiveness, insubordination, etc. Not all strikes may be issued. Strikes may be removed after the offending Equalizer repents, proves that the deed will not be repeated, and/or completes a Quest of the King's design. Once an Equalizer has accumulated 3 strikes, definitive action takes place. If the Equalizer in question held any rank other than Citizen or Base Member, the rank is removed, and he or she is demoted to entry level. If an Equalizer is at Citizen level, and demotion is not an option, they will be exiled on the third strike. Other High ranking High Council members may recommend a strike be issued.

7) Appealing Strikes: Strikes may be appealed by an Equalizer. If an Equalizer feels they have been unjustly given a strike, they may request a High Council Hearing to decide whether the strike should remain. All High Coucil requests for strike hearings must be made to the Duke.

8) Discrimination: There will be no tolerance of discrimination among the Equalizers. Applicants will not be denied membership due to Race, Gender, Nationality, Religion, Age (within COPPA restrictions), Sexual Orientation, or any other distinguishable traits. Applicants that are denied membership are thus refused based on issues of security, guild affiliation, information gathered or not given on the form, guild capacity, attitude, or other non-biased reasons. There will be no harassment of other members, or discrimination based on the aforementioned factors. Members in violation will find themselves looking for another guild to join. Choose your humor wisely, and be open-minded. If you cannot accept all people, then you do not belong here.

9) Harassment: There will be no tolerance of Harassment in The Equalizers. This covers sexual harassment and non-sexual harassment. If you are found to be pestering or soliciting members or allies you will be removed. Please also note that this is not a dating service or a singles bar. It is perfectly understandable for people of the opposite gender to be curious and perhaps even mildly flirtatious. However, unwanted advances will be met with disciplinary action. If someone is harassing you, it is your duty to let them know that their attempts to contact you are unwanted. If they persist, report this to the Sheriff.

10) PK Kills, Stats, etc.: If you have kills to turn in, stats to have checked, levels to confirm, etc. you may use the forms at the Member Utility section. Or you are to use the chain of command. Do not take credit for kills of people you have not killed or have killed accidentally. Do not let me hear of an Equalizer PKing and turning kills in as PK ears. Be Honorable.

11) Credit for Ironman and TFH games: To earn credit for a TFH or Ironman, you must participate in one with at least one other Equalizer. After completing the game, one of you must go to the site and post your results from the Member Utilities section. The King receives these forms and will credit the games. Members should keep track of the number of tourneys played and should submit a Medals Request when they have reached tourney milestones. The King does not keep a record.

12) Promotions: While promotions are earned by the members, they are delivered only by the King. No promotion is authorized or recognized until The King has edited the members page. Members who are seeking promotion must contact the Halja (or Zaljir if there is no Halja) and provide them with the rank they wish to be promoted to. They will investigate to make sure the requestor has met all the requirements of the position and will gather the required recommendations. If you have met those requirements, the Zaljir will contact the King and present him with the formal recommendation of promotion. The King has final authority. Not all promotion requests may be accepted.

13) Leave of Absence: If at any time, you expect to be unable to perform the basic duties required (i.e.. check-in) then it is in your best interest to request an LOA or Leave of absence. All LOA Requests must be made through the LOA Form located at the Member Utility section. Members returning from a LOA may not, in some cases, return at the rank they were prior to their LOA. In all cases, efforts will be made to bring members back into the active roster at the level they were before. However, especially in cases such as the Valdasha or Khaless A Sinthe, vacant positions will need to be filled, and this may impact members returning from LOA, as we won't demote the new person in that position to give it back to the returning member. Members on LOA are not required to Check-in, and obviously will not gain strikes for not Checking in while on LOA. Members who request an LOA for longer than a week will be removed from the active list and will not count toward member totals. Members on LOA for 6 months without reporting in will be moved to the Former Members list. Members of the military should contact the King who will make a special notation of their service. Unexpected absence of noted military personnel will result on an LOA instead of a demotion.

14) Rushing/Power Leveling of nonmembers: The Equalizers do not give free rushes to nonmembers If you have been sent to the channel expecting free rushes or items, you have been deceived. The Equalizers do not owe anyone, within or without the guild a Rush or an item. If this bothers anyone, I invite them to start their own clan that gives everyone free rushes and items.

15) Absentia behavior: You are solely responsible for the actions of your accounts on the message boards and in games/channels. If someone else gains access to your accounts and behaves contrary to the laws of Teanthril, YOU will be held fully accountable regardless of who was using your account at the time. If you have lost an account to a hacker, it is your duty to notify the Aracallon immediately and establish new accounts asap. any "lost" accounts will be banned and any titles and rankings will transfer to the new account. Choose your friends wisely and guard your account info.

16) Remember: this is Teanthril, and we will lead through example. If you have joined the Equalizers, it is because you want to be part of something greater than a game, or individual. Without certain regulations, the Equalizers are nothing more than the crumbling ruins of most of the guilds that surround us. Remember, The King has the Final Authority in all matters.

17) Have fun!

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Joining

1) All new (and returning) Equalizers will be given an entry level title of Citizen. Please note: It does not matter what your rank was when you were an Equalizer before for returning members. Returning members from the HFM will gain the seniority of their original join date AFTER completing the probationary period. All other returning members will gain the rank of Squire AFTER completing the probationary period. For new members, please note: It does not matter what rank(s) you held in other guilds prior to joining {=}, you start as a Citizen and earn your way up like everyone else. No exceptions or special treatment will be made. If you are expecting a high rank because of your past experience, go somewhere else.

2) All new Equalizers will be on a period of probation for approximately one month within the guild. It is important during that time, to establish friendships and participate so that the chain of command can see that you are an active addition. During the probation Citizens will be assigned to a Mentor, who will attempt to contact new Equalizer. Failed attempts are looked upon unfavorably. After the probation has successfully ended, the member will gain access to additional areas on our forums.

3) Once a member is accepted, he or she will receive a letter of welcome from the King. A reply would be appreciated (and is only polite). Get involved quickly. It is every Equalizer's responsibility to add ICQ#s and E-mail addresses to their lists. I like you guys, but I really don't have the time to send each of you all of my contacts.

4) All members are REQUIRED to register at our Forums. Equalizers must use their Equalizer name as their Account name (user name, login) so that they can be readily identified. Members who have not registered at the Forum will not be able to view and post at the Check-in Board and will be dropped for failure to check-in. Please do NOT add {=}, EQ_ or similar tags to your account name when registering. It makes it harder to locate you for administrative purposes.

5) Before filling out the form, all candidates must read these rules, ranks, species and CoC carefully and completely. Any questions not answered after reading, when you join may be asked of the superiors in your house once you've been accepted.

6) Equalizer Names must be "In character" and l33t talk is no longer allowed for {=} Names. We will also no longer allow names that are obviously stolen from other fantasy works or games. Likewise, we no longer allow titles in the names as titles and ranks are part of the governmental system. Names can definitely not contain numbers, and capitalization must be correct (i.e. only first letters of names). Examples: These names will not be allowed: Johnny, Jack, William, Gandalf, Frodo, Legolas, Sir Marwalf The Great, 1337d00d, h4ck3r, Th0r, H0lyd00d, et cetera. These types of names will be allowed: Johnny Blackwater, Jack Worfeld, William Barntorch, Imraelf, Morgald, Borgalf the Witty et cetera. If we decide that your character's name is inappropriate for the guild setting, we will likely discard your join request.

7) Xfire is the official Instant Messanger for our Clan but, itis not a requirement to join. It falls upon your shoulders to make every effort to be visible within the guild. Efforts such as posting game times and schedules at the Forum, posting often for general report, earning an helping other earn medals, and sending and replying to e-mail will make up for the lack of Xfire. In lieu of Xfire, if members use Trillian, they'll be able to contact each other even through AIM or MSN IM. This is also a viable option.

8) The Equalizers do not require that all of your characters use our tag. We DO request that you create an Equalizer account or Equalizer Character. You do not have to delete the other characters or accounts that you have, but you will only gain credit for guild activities when using a guild account or character. For use of clan tagging, the tag {=} will be placed in front of your character or account name. For purposes of Diablo II, EQ_ must be placed in front of your name. In Everquest an established guild on Xegony will add <Equalizers> to your name.

9) Due to laws concerning privacy and minors, we can no longer accept members under the age of 14. Please see our Privacy Statement.

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Chain of Command

1) Members may find their place within the chain of command by checking the Members by Rank page. To see how the chain of command is structured, visit the Chain of Command Page.

2) Equalizers must obey the commands of those appointed over them within the Chain of Command. If an order seems unfair or against our rules, the member should politely let their superior know that the order is in question. The order in question, if not reconsidered, should then be brought to the attention of the superior of the member who gave the order.

3) If an order from the King seems unfair or contrary to the rules, the Equalizer may request a High Council hearing via the Duke.

4) Respect will be issued both up and down the chain of command.

5) If an Equalizer disobeys a direct command, the superior needs to report the offense to THEIR superior. This conveyance should continue until it is brought to the attention of the Prince and/or the King, who will instruct the Duke to investigate the matter.

6) Members who are found to be disrespectful or insubordinate will be subject to a strike or expulsion dependent upon the severity of the offense.

7) Equalizers who are found to be giving unfair or unlawful commands will be issued a strike, demotion, or expulsion dependent upon the severity of the offense.

8) Suggestions, medal requests, questions, concerns, and important information should be passed up through the chain of command whenever an established form or direct HC contact has not been established. If a superior is not performing his or her duties, the members of a house should contact the King.

9) Promotions are awarded by the King only.

10) In order to be promoted, the member seeking the promotion must contact the High Council . They must communicate what rank they are seeking. The HC will investigate the member's activity record, making sure they meet the requirements and will report the findings to the Prince. Members requesting promotion may provide a list of those eligible and willing to recommend them, otherwise the HC must interview for recommendations.

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Message Boards

How to: Register at http://www.equalizersclan.net/forums using your Equalizer name as your login (No tag). Once you've registered you will receive an email confirmation which must be completed. This will add you to the Forums member list and you will then be added to the appropriate usergroup.

1) Absolutely no profanity at our message boards. We are a guild of Honorable, mature players. Leave the trash talking to the PKs. The Sheriff as well as Moderators will patrol the boards and may recommend strikes or other disciplinary action for any who ignore this rule. The exception to this rule is the Colloseum, where profanity may be used in a story, poem, song etc... but profanity for profanity's sake will be met with disciplinary action.
NOTE: Profanity is not accepted at our boards (See Colloseum for exception). Likewise we do not allow close approximations or abbreviations of profanity. For example "F*CK", "@$$h0l3" and "WTF" are examples of prohibited words. Please also note that as there are cultures other than American at the boards other words will be added to the Banned list. This includes "bugger", "bloody" and "sod" when used in profane fashion.

2) If at all possible, settle disputes between members in private. Message boards are not the place.

3) Do not accuse another Equalizer of an alleged crime at the message boards. Should you witness dishonorable actions from a fellow {=}, report the matter along with proof to the Sheriff, Chancellor, Aracallon, Coronal, or King. Posting negatively about another Equalizer is grounds for an administrative strike.

4) No racial, sexist, or lewd comments. This is not a soapbox for racial or sexist remarks, nor is it a singles bar. Be respectful of others, regardless of whether you find offense to what you are considering posting or not. If it could be taken as offensive, don't post it.

5) Our boards are for our online/gaming community. Our boards are not political, social, or religious soundboards. Every person who comes to our boards is entitled to live in whatever country they choose by birth or relocation, to practice any religion they choose or already belong to, to engage in any social lifestyle they choose, to believe in any social or political philosophy they desire. However our boards will not be a vessel to spread propaganda, nor to debate others based upon nationality, politics, religion, or sociology. Bashing someone's country (or their country's politics, or their country's leader's politics), inciting religious showdowns, debating social/religious topics will not be tolerated at our boards. There are thousands of boards on the internet that invite that type of discussion... go there. Remember our boards may be hosted and run in America, but they are privately owned boards for a specific purpose. Unlimited freedom of speech does not apply here. You don't have a RIGHT to post at our boards, Your ability to do so is based on your voluntary registration, your ability to follow the rules, and our desire to allow you to remain. Please note that courteous discussions of religious, political and social issues MAY be discussed at the appropriate Generation G boards, just not on any Equalizer sections of the forum.

6) If enemies post at our board, allow the King, Coronal, or Aracallon to respond. Angry responses are an indication of frustration and lack of discipline. It would be best to keep a cool head and silently laugh at childish insults if they come our way. To act as a unit and allow the King to represent the Equalizers shows strength and confidence.

7) Enemy Boards: Do not post insulting messages at enemy boards. Also do not post pleas for forgiveness. Do not attempt negotiations for peace. That is the job of the King or the Coronal if a negotiation is required.

8) When representing The Equalizers, (that is any time you reference the guild, defend the guild, appear in guild games or channels or wear the tag) be Honorable.

9) Allies boards require the same rules as your own boards as well as any further rules that those boards employ.

10) Do not post any sensitive or classified information on the message boards.

11) There is no need to test a signature at our boards. When you add or update a signature, those changes or additions will appear in any existing posts you've made.

12) Keep your signatures small, both in viewing size and in file size. Specific size restrictions are noted at Vampy's Pub. Also, please refrain from playing music in your posts through signatures or other means.

13) There are many boards, each for a specific purpose. New members will not have access to all boards, and will gain that access upon successful completion of Citizenship and promotion to the next level within their house. Valdasha and Khaless A Sinthe will have access to exclusive boards. There are also exclusive boards available to members within certain groups, Endeavors and auxiliary ranks.

14) You may only have ONE account at the forums.

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Meetings

1) We hold meetings on Friday Nights, Tuesday Nights and Saturday Mornings. Members may attend any meeting that works with their time zone and schedule. Friday and Tuesday Night Times are:
9:00 PM ET (9:00 PM (Fri) NY, 2:00 AM (Sat) London, 11:00 AM (Sat) Sydney, 6:00 PM (Fri) Los Angeles)
Saturday Morning Times are:
11:00 AM ET (11:00 AM (Sat) NY, 4:00 PM (Sat) London, 1:00 AM (Sun) Sydney, 8:00 AM (Sat) Los Angeles)

2) Meetings are NOT mandatory.

3) Members who are present often at the meetings may receive the award of Attendance. Each time a meeting is attended, the highest ranking member should record the names of all who attended as well as topics covered and suggestions made, and email the list to the King. Meetings are not a requirement for promotion...at this time but, will be in the future.

4) Meetings are a way to share news, suggestions, pass the word, and get to know each other.

5) We are a multinational guild, and as such, each base geographical location may hold their own meetings. An email with attendance and notes should be sent to the King by the Highest ranked member present. Equalizers may attend any of the meetings at any of the times that they wish. IF there is another time that is better suited for meetings, members may gather as needed. All meetings should be recorded and sent to the King with attendance lists.

6) No profanity or obscenity at meetings. These are formal gatherings, and while the meeting is officially taking place, improprieties will be met with disciplinary action such as strikes.
NOTE: Profanity is not accepted at our meetings Likewise we do not allow close approximations or abbreviations of profanity. For example "F*CK", "@$$h0l3" and "WTF" are examples of prohibited words. Please also note that as there are cultures other than American at the meetings other words will be added to the Banned list. This includes "bugger", "bloody" and "sod" when used in profane fashion.

7) No interrupting the speaker. Be polite or receive a strike. Everyone will have an opportunity to have their say. Whispers should be sent if you have need to speak to another member during the course of the meeting.

8) The Highest ranking person will call meeting to order and to close. That person may choose a master at arms to keep order and help determine whether a person deserves a strike or a warning for inappropriate behavior.

9) Stick to the subject! Each topic should be discussed until the issue is resolved or the message has been properly relayed. Do not clamor to bring up a new topic until the current topic has been closed.

10) Do not rush the meeting or speaker. This is rude. If you need to leave, whisper the speaker. The speaker will say good-bye, others will, and then the meeting will resume.

11) When a member enters the meeting late, a hello is in order, but do not interrupt the speaker to ask how the newcomer's life is going.

12) Don't be shy. When your name is called, or if general comments are asked for, speak your mind. This is how a guild grows.

13) If you have a question or comment to add while a person is speaking, either whisper the topic-taker. Try not to blurt it out unless comments are asked for. This can eventually result in strikes.

14) We want you to have fun, but remember that meetings are serious business. There is almost always a casual rap session directly following adjournment, so please be patient if you wish to socialize. The less interruptions, the sooner business is over with.

15) DO NOT INTERRUPT THE MEETING TO ASK IF ANYONE WANTS TO PLAY A GAME! This is the most annoying experience of a meeting. Strikes will be issued without hesitation on this point.

16) Our Meetings are held on IRC. You can get a client for IRC at mIRC at http://www.mirc.com
Steps for Joining the {=} server on mIRC -
Step 1: Find your mIRC Options folder. There is an icon with a folder and a hammer next to it along the top row. Click on it.

Step 2: You'll notice the list on the left, "Connect" is at the very top. In the sub-menu directly beneath it, you'll see Servers, Options, Local Info, Identd, Firewall. Click on "Servers".

Step 3: You'll see on the right two boxes. IRC Network and IRC Server. I have All showing in IRC Network, I never did anything with it. Under IRC Server you'll find an "Add" button. Click it.

Step 4: You'll have a box come up that says Description, IRC Server, Port(s), Group, Password. Put the following information in each slot.
Description: Give it whatever name you want, as long as you know it's the server the Equalizers use for meetings.
IRC Server: irc.gamesurge.net
Port(s): 6667
leave Group blank
leave Password blank
When everything is entered as described above, hit the Add button.

Step 5: This will take you Find in the list of Servers the description that you had just entered. Mine showed up at the bottom of my list. If you can't find it, repeat Step 4 and try to find it again.

Step 6: Once you find it, hit the "connect to server" button. Wait a few moments for it to finish the connecting process. A channel screen should pop up. Type #arktic at the top, and hit "join channel". {=}Buffy or Grin may also be helpful if following the steps above don't produce the desired results.

17) When a meeting is in progress, do not set the topic of the channel to the default until the end of the meeting.

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General IRC Chatroom rules

These rules apply to the Equalizers IRC Channel #arktic at all times. Please refer to the rules for Meetings for Meeting time specific rules of conduct.

1) General rules regarding discrimination, harassment and the behavior of Equalizers stand at all times. Any breach of these rules while in #arktic or on IRC as a representative of {=} may result in administrative discipline through {=} as well as banning from Equalizer or Equalizer-related IRC channels.

2) Do not ask to gain Operator or Peon status in channel. Operator status (represented by @Name) is given to all members of HC and TEG, and Peon status (represented by +Name) is given to all members above the rank of Siegelord/Arcanelord/Centurion and are below the HC in rank.

3) No foul language will be tolerated in Equalizer related channels. This will be met with a warning and then administrative steps will be taken.

4) Guests are welcome in our channel during Non-Meeting times, but all visitors are subject to the same rules as members. Members inviting a guest who violates the rules will face disciplinary action, so choose your guests wisely.

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Recruiting

1) All Equalizers, from Citizen on up, may recruit for The Equalizers guild.

2) Once a new member comes off Probation, the Equalizer who recruited them will be eligible the Medal of Recruitment. Only one medal is issued per person, but keep recruiting. As members recruited beyond the first complete promotion, members will begin to earn either a Quest or Assignment point by filling out the form in the Member Utilities section. There are always the Equalizer of the month, Medal of Merit, and promotions to consider as well. The Medal of Recruitment is not an automated process, so if you recruit someone who has passed Citizenship, it is your responsibility to request the medal at the Member Utilities section.

3) Do not promise high ranks when recruiting. All Equalizers must earn their ranks. There are members who deserve promotion but must fulfill their requirements and gain recommendations to gain rank. Members found to be promising anything other than a consideration for Citizenship for recruits will face severe penalties.

4) Do not attempt to recruit members from other guilds, especially our allies. We allow restrictive dual membership, but we also know it is difficult enough to devote time to one guild. If a member of another guild wishes to join us, he or she may do so if their current guild also allows dual memberships and does not play a games supported by an Arda in {=}. Will will honor the rules of other guilds if their members wish to join {=} and remain in their current guild. Concentrate your recruiting efforts on those not already in a guild.

5) Please remember that every person you recruit reflects upon your judgment and character. Avoid mass recruiting. Instead take the time to get to know the person you plan on recruiting. {=} Is not intended to be the biggest, but the best.

6) Remember that spreading the word of {=}, using the tag whenever possible, including our URL and tag on other boards and mediums will gain {=} exposure and will help to expose us to more potential Equalizers.

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Ardain

1) The Kingdom is represented in games by our Ardain. Each Arda represents a particular gaming platform. There is no limit to the number of Ardain that we may have, but inactive Ardain will be closed.

2) Each Arda will be lead by an Ekar. An Ekar reports to the Kiran.

3) If a member wants to create a new Arda, they may do so under the following set of circumstances:

• A) Requirements:
  At least two months of membership
  Recommendation of the Duke

• B) The Member is able to effectively run the Arda.

• C) The Member provides the Kiran sources of information to create the Arda.

• D) The Arda is recruitable and remains active.

4) An Arda is designed to allow our players to enjoy, excel, and be recognized for playing the games they enjoy. An Arda is designed to bring in new members to The Equalizers who enjoy that game. If our membership does not increase with our Ardain, then there is little justification for the Arda.

5) From time to time, a multiplayer game may become popular enough to warrant the creation of a new Arda or section within an Arda for it. This can only take place if a member who meets the requirements for Ekar or Mayor volunteers to establish and head the Arda or section. Should you wish to start a new Arda, the first thing you should do is to contact the Kiran with your plan. The Kiran will help (possibly with input from the Aracallon, Coronal and/or King) decide if the Arda will be a good fit in {=}. In order to create an Arda the gaming platform must meet the following requirements:
A) It must be recruitable. That means that the Arda must be self sufficient. The idea of creating an Arda is not to have another Primary Arda choice for members already in {=}, but to utilize the linked gaming platform as a way to recruit new members into {=}. An Arda that does not draw new Equalizers will eventually be removed.
B) It must not create an environment that encourages or creates problems between Equalizers. This was a problem, for example, with the former Sorren Arda.
If it is determined that the Arda will be a good addition, the Kiran will make the recommendation to the King. If the King approves, then he will contact the Ekar-Volunteer to begin the Arda setup. Once the site is created, the King will promote the member to Ekar and announce the new Arda.

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Cheating

1) The Equalizers are a cheat optional guild.

2) Cheating is accepted only in cases where strong evidence suggests that our foes are also cheating.

3) As PKKs and Equalizers it is to our best interests to Equalize the playing field and fight fire with fire.

4) Cheats have ruined most of the games we play. Cheating as a way of playing the games is not favored, but we will not send our members into battle against PKs helplessly outmatched. Cheat if you choose to. Legit players are well respected and welcome among The Equalizers.

5) Cheats are absolutely disallowed for dueling. An Equalizer may accept or make a duel against another non-Equalizer. A duel is an honorable acknowledgment that both sides are willing participants in the contest, and therefore neither is taken by surprise or unprovoked. To this end, there is no need for, no excuse for cheating.

6) Cheats are absolutely disallowed for tournaments. A tournament is a friendly test of skill, and there is no place within one for cheating. Those found cheating in a tournament will be removed from the guild.

7) Dueling Vs PKing Vs PKKing. A duel is an accepted match between 2 or more participants who knowingly agree to test skill Vs skill. PKing is attacking a player who has no knowledge of the attack, or who is not a willing participant. PKKing is the hunting of known PKs or the avenging and self defense against unwanted combatants. Note: If you enter a PKing or Dueling game, you are a WILLING participant simply by entering. If you are attacked in one of these games, you may NOT submit the ear as a PK ear. If you are in a regular game and people are dueling you MAY NOT pick up fallen ears. You must let a hostile player know that you do NOT wish to duel or fight. If they STILL attack you, THEN you can turn in their ear. If you witness a player kill an innocent who has declared a desire not to fight, you may attack the PK at will. If you know a player is a member of a PK guild, you may attack the PK at will. If the member is on our hitlist or an ally's hitlist, you may attack at will. There is now a section for dueling and reporting the names of those you duel. DO NOT PICK UP DUEL EARS OR TURN IN DUEL EARS AS PK EARS!! That is as bad as PKing itself.

8) If you feel that you don't trust another player to duel you fairly, simply do not accept the duel and be honest if they ask you why. Do not let me hear of an Equalizer accepting or making a duel and cheating during it.

9) Cheating is not an acceptable way of gaming. When used as a weapon to combat against the dishonorable who use them, cheats are allowed. Cheating for cheating's sake, such as item duping, and using hacks as a part of daily (non-PK hunting) gaming is not Honorable and is strongly discouraged. Not only can it cause harm to you in the way of Character or Account Deletion, but it can also harm your guildmates if the game company detects a duped or hacked item in their characters inventory that you gave them.

10) The Equalizers do not distribute promote or endorse cheats or hacks from our site. We also officially issue a warning that the use of cheats and hacks is in direct violation of the terms and conditions you agreed to to play your online games, and that action may be taken against you by those companies. {=} supports the developers in trying to establish and maintain a legit gaming environment.

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Dueling General

Equalizers are permitted to Duel in all games we play that support duels. They may Duel members within the guild or without. There are rules that must be followed and will be enforced. PVP in strategy games also counts as a duel.

1) Two CHARACTERS may NOT duel each other for credit in the same day. You may duel the same PLAYER with as many combinations of their CHARACTERS and yours as you wish, but two CHARACTERS may only duel each other once in the same day for credit. ONLY the First Duel between two CHARACTERS counts. If you duel a character 35 times in one day, lose the first match and win the next 34, you must report the duel as ONE LOSS, as the first duel is the only one that counts. For games in which there is no "Character" such as strategy games, a combination of players may report up to 3 duels in one day. No more Please see Game Specific Rules for possible exceptions.

2) Absolutely No Cheating. Keep in mind, when I say cheating, I mean no hacks, cheats or dupes. Equalizers found guilty of cheating in a duel will be immediately expelled.

3) Absolutely NO whining. If you lose a duel to anyone, fellow Equalizer or non-{=}, you must be honorable. Congratulate the winner. If you feel he cheated, let your superior know in the case of an in-guild duel, the matter will be investigated. In the case of outsider duels, we may post a warning about dueling that player. Even if the offender is town guarding, double, triple, teaming you, etc. Leave gracefully and honorably. Employ the Discipline it takes to be Honorable at all times. This also applies to Duels where levels are not evenly matched. If you accept a duel with someone whose character is too high a level for you to have a chance, don't complain when you die. Equalizers found guilty of whining about duels will face penalties to be determined by the Sheriff.

4) No Complaining about Items, Potions, skills, strategies, etc. Officially, The Equalizers Duels no not exclude the use of any legit charm, any item, any skill or any potion or strategy. Each player must develop his character the best way they know how. Aside from cheats, there are many items that if players are lucky or industrious enough to find or acquire, many duelers attempt to disallow. This is an absolute farce. You should design your character or strategy to survive and win at duels. So should your opponent. If you are afraid to fight someone because they may have an better item, or may be using a surefire strategy, don't accept the duel.. Find another activity. Equalizer Duels allow for the use of any legit item, any skill any strategy. Equalizers found guilty of whining about duels will face penalties to be determined by the Sheriff. This also includes complaining about Rushing or specific strategies used in RTS, FPS, TBS games etc.

5) When in Rome... Equalizers may be invited to duel in tournaments run by other guilds, or may be asked to duel by individuals outside the guild. IF you accept a challenge for a duel not run by Equalizers, you must ask for any ground rules, then either abide by them, or decline to duel. Equalizers found guilty of not Honoring the rules of the host will be expelled. Likewise complaining after the fact will be met with the above disciplinary actions.

6) Unfair duels. Do not engage in unfair duels. Do not double team (triple team, etc.) others in duels. If you are found guilty of outnumbering an opponent in a duel you will be expelled. This is lowlife activity, far below the expectations of an Equalizer. This also means no Free for all duels etc., 2 on 2, etc. Duels will only be a 1 on 1 situation except as noted by non-{=} host rules.

7) No Bullying. I never want to hear of Equalizers bullying people to duel. Any challenge you make may be declined. If so, be honorable and find a new opponent. I especially don't want Equalizers to pick on players with characters of lower levels. If you are big and bad pick on someone your own size. Equalizers found guilty of bullying will face penalties to be determined by the Sheriff.

8) If consenting Equalizers engage in Dueling activities that do not strictly adhere to all of these rules, then they cannot report or complain when things go badly. You either follow the rules, or keep your mouth shut. The Equalizers are not a Baby-sitting service.

Strategy based games: Strategy based games do not offer the same setting as the adventure/role-playing games. PKing is an option in such games as Diablo and Baldur's Gate where co-op play is expected, and the computer generates foes for the group to battle. The group helps each other gain gain experience and items for further adventure. PKs turn the tables, and make the game that much more dimensional.

Strategy based games such as Starcraft, Age of Empires, as well as First-Person Shooters are designed for player Vs player competition. In as much, each player enters the game knowing that they will face another opponent. It is expected, and there is no surprise in that style of play. There is trickery and treachery, however.

1) No newbie hunting. Equalizers should not lure new players to games for cannon fodder.

2) No Backstabbing or team killing. Groups of Equalizers are not to enter or create co-op games than take off alliance and wipe out the other players. It creates a bad reputation that we do not want. It is not Honorable to do so.

3) The only exception to rule 2 is fighting guilds we are at WAR with.

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NWN General Rules

1) No cheating! Although {=} is a cheat-optional guild for other games, when it comes to NWN, any 3rd party programs can affect the server. (I.e. Crash the server). Thus the use of cheats on any {=} server, or in any other server while using an Equalizer tag or guild name is subject to disciplinary action.

2) Behavior. No lewd language, profanity or harassing of other players. This rule is in effect at all times.

3) NPC Killing. No NPC killing allowed unless it is part of the game, (for example, you are an Evil char and it is a quest in which you must kill an NPC as part of it). Killing Non-Playable Characters just for fun can cause problems on server as well as restricting other players' gameplay. Members found in violation of this are subject to severe disciplinary action.

4) Drops. No player in a party with others is allowed to start looting corpses or open chests while the party is still involved in combat in the area. This is definitely uncool. Members found doing so (with screenshot evidence or multiple witnesses) are subject to discipline.

5) No badgering of DMs to give you items, heal you, transport, etc. DMs are there to enhance gameplay and are often meant to be an unseen force. You may ask reasonable questions, but badgerers will be reported and disciplined.

6) Cleaning up. Items dropped by players on the ground need to be cleaned up unless it is for another player. There will be trash receptacles put all around the world so there should be no excuses. Items left on ground create a tremendous lag on server. Do your part and clean up after yourselves.

7) DM Abuse. Dms are not allowed to abuse their powers in the game. Cut and dry, if it is observed email it to the Sheriff with a description and the HC will deal with the situation accordingly.

8) {=} Server. This is our guild's server. Only members of Equalizers and allies of {=} are allowed to play on it. No bringing friends along to play. If they want to play, show them where the join form is.

9) Thievery. No pick-pocketing of other players or of NPC's in a friendly town while partied with others unless your party is aware of this.

Any infractions of the above rules can may result in disciplinary action including, loss of lvls, xp loss, strikes, banishment from the server and banishment from the guild.

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NWN Dueling

1) Only use server vault characters. The area of the duel doesn't have to be our server, but the character used in a duel must be from a server vault.

2) Duels are only counted when done in an area that is marked Arena. Fighting other characters outside of the arena area is considered PKing (or PKKing) and will not be counted as a duel. Members found to be PKing will be subject to banishment.

3) No Complaining about Items, strategies or skills. Officially, Each player must develop his character the best way they know how. Aside from cheats, there are many items that if players are lucky or industrious enough to find or acquire, many duelers attempt to disallow. This is an absolute farce. These players know what weapons and armor they need to be the best at dueling and they are entitled to use them. You should design your character to survive and win at duels. So should your opponent. If you are afraid to fight someone because they may have an better item, or may be using a strategy or character type that is beyond your ability to defeat... DON'T DUEL. Find another activity. Equalizers found guilty of whining about duels will face penalties to be determined by the Sheriff.

4) Two CHARACTERS may NOT duel each other for credit in the same day. You may duel the same PLAYER with as many combinations of their CHARACTERS and yours as you wish, but two CHARACTERS may only duel each other once in the same day for credit. ONLY the First Duel between two CHARACTERS counts.
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