- Guild Charter
- Alliance Charter
- Guild History
Preface
This charter contains the quintessential elements mandatory for a typical charter. Additionally, it also contains history, points of view, reasonings and, ever so boldly, my voice speaking for the membership of the guild. Rest assured, any opinions expressed by myself in this document are my own and do not necessarily reflect the views of any member in this guild. If there are significant discrepancies in fact or opinions expressed that are contrary to what any member feels that VA is about, they must take the responsibility to address the matter so that I can make appropriate corrections and apologies.
It is my expectation, as the guild leader, for the charter to be reviewed by any and all members of the guild before declaring it official. Acknowledgments will be given out to all contributors having substantial modifications or additions to the charter.
Introduction
A charter of a guild, can be defined as a collection of rules or policies that uphold a social structure or it could be something less formal, perhaps a summarization in an “About Us” section of a website; neither of those would suffice for our guild. I wanted the charter for Velox Aequitas to be all those things and more. Is it technically the correct template for a guild charter. Perhaps not, but as many ventures and activities our guild has endeavored over the years, we make whatever it is “our own” and go with what feels right; and such is the manner in which I began to document the Velox Aequitas Guild Charter.
The concept the ideal of writing this document has weighted heavily in my mind for far too long. Tossing around, why, how, this policy and that policy and careful to not step on any toes or offend; exhausting and without a single clue of where to begin, I never launched off the first sentence until now.
To friends of old and friends of new....
Admission & Membership
Our recruitment policy has and always will remain an open door. Velox Aequitas is a firm believer in letting everyone be a part of us as we will become a part of them for the duration of the recruitment process. Never have there been or will be any hard or harsh feelings for individuals who joined our ranks and decided that we are not the guild for them. On that note, the street is two way, not everyone will be a fit for our guild and we exercise the right to graciously say goodbye to any recruits trying out our guild that are not an appropriate fit, as we wish the best for their adventure.
Age
Velox Aequitas does not discriminate against age; anyone of any age group may apply to our ranks. However, it should be noted, the majority of our membership base ranges between the late 20s and late 30s.
Character Level
Velox Aequitas does not have a level requirement for membership acceptance. Any character of any level may apply to join our ranks.
Character Archetype
Velox Aequitas does not have a requirement on character archetype. We do not approve or disapprove membership to the guild based on character profession / archetype.
Time Zone
We do not approve or disapprove membership into Velox Aequitas based on a players physical location. A variety of members’ time zones are found within our ranks.
Personality
Although Velox Aequitas is a guild comprised of casual gamers, our member base personalities differ throughout. We do not seek a certain type of personality in a player to join our ranks but we do avoid drama queens, griefers and confrontational personas. As a rule of measure, it is almost always best to restrain from behaving extremely militaristic and antagonistic; while keeping alert attention spans, a positive attitude and an objective diplomatic eye will most definitely keep yourself in the guild’s good graces.
Gaming Style
Primarily you’ll find a casual gaming style is where most of the members get their fuel, with the exception here and there. But for the most part, no one is in any real hurry to complete the game or reach the maximum goal (if there is one); we simply enjoy gaming with friends, whether it be on our lower levels, or our mains, doesn’t really matter much to us because the fun factor is always present.
In grouping and adventuring, our noses aren’t turned toward the sky, if there is room in our adventure, and another wants to come, we give our priorities to our members first, but happily invite others to come along if there is an opening.
Giving everyone a fair chance in their endeavors is the premise on which we stand for. Always trying to remember to treat others exactly how you, yourself, would want to be treated.
Member Conduct
It is the expectation and responsibility of each member within the guild to carry and present one’s self as if the voice of Velox Aequitas. Online communication format is often misinterpreted and it is wise to maintain a grain of patience and perspective before speaking during a heated discussion.
Maturity is of the utmost importance to Velox Aequitas as each member interacts with other guild members, alliance members, the general population and even the opponent. Whether interactions occur on the battlefield, in the game, verbally or any online forum, chat system, the rules of membership conduct always apply as long as your guild tag says Velox Aequitas.
Misconduct and repeated inappropriate behavior impact negatively on the guild as whole and will not be tolerated. Dismissal from the guild is the line of disciplinary action taken if correction of members conduct is not rectified after the first or second warning.
Offensive Language
Velox Aequitas views cursing as improper etiquette which only brings on a negative atmosphere to permeate the member morale and guild well-being. Cursing will absolutely not be tolerated on any global, public or alliance chat system. Granted, everyone is victim to the occasional slip from time to time when we become frustrated or die suddenly and unexpectedly. However, when slips become excessive or frequent a warning will be issued if the member is not aware of the poor vocabulary choices made. Repeated and rebellious occurrences can lead up to and including dismissal from the guild.
Further, it should be noted, policing channels and monitoring everyone on a vocabulary crusade is also considered bad conduct. When warning another member of their foul language, first remember to use the best moral standards as a foundation for your judgement. If foul language is used from time to time in closed groups or in groups where no on is offended by the use of cursing repeatedly, then there is no reason to treat an individual like an infant by tattling. Policies, such as this one on cursing, are in place to set the standard for behavior as every member values the guild’s reputation, but they are not in place to be used as a black and white judiciary system to fire off as ammunition at another member, for whatever hypothetical disagreements come between them.
Foul Play
Actively performing any activity for the sole purpose of ruining another’s gaming fun will be dismissed from the guild, usually without warning. Examples include, training NPCs on unsuspecting allies, camping a spawn area where the enemy has no chance to even load into the scene and also but not limited to cheating by means of a hack or other exploit technique. These and other types of foul play are only a catalyst for a negative gaming and community experience; Velox Aequitas will in no way be associated with any individual, alliance and or guild involved in such acts.
Harassment & Discrimination
Members who engage in any harassment behavior of sexual, racial, sexual orientation, discrimination based on age, color, creed, physical or mental disability, ethnicity, gender identity, nationality or national origin, physical appearance, religion, political affiliation, sex or on any other basis will be removed from the guild immediately. Velox Aequitas has a zero tolerance level for such behavior.
Maturity & Unselfishness
There is an expected level of maturity for all members of the guild despite the age. Selfish individuals and cry babies are not welcome within our ranks and will be removed immediately. Identifying immature individuals are easily identified as the loudest hecklers and sore losers with childish behavior when it comes to loot and personal gain. Exhibiting immature behavior after being warned results in dismissal from the guild.
Roleplay
While Velox Aequitas is not a full-time roleplay guild, roleplay is always welcome. We do not enforce our members to roleplay in any of the chat channels but there are a few suggestions of encouragement that always provide a nice courtesy to others that do roleplay. It is preferential that any “out of character” comments be marked with either brackets (( )) or with “ooc”. Most roleplayers and even non-roleplayers tend to stay in character especially in /say and /em channels.
Take careful note that Roleplay, in any and all forms, does not provide an individual or group of individuals any license, permission, reason or ability to violate other guild policies and conduct requirements.
Member Obligations & Expectations
To maintain longevity, prosperity and peace within the guild, guidelines set up as expectations serve as the blanket to cover each member on their journey. These rules of measure and or guidelines benefit everyone as a whole by keeping our community a fun domain; take heed to them with a grain of salt as they should eventually become idle involuntary habits.
Game Activity
As life progresses, change occurs. Members have no obligation to remain active within any game Velox Aequitas has affiliations. We request, as a courtesy, members post their leave from a game or any long term absences on the forums; chances are good you will be missed. Additionally, non-active members might have their in-game rank adjusted to a “veteran” status until they return. Ranking on our website (outside of all games) remains unchanged unless member stated they will no longer be communicating with the guild.
Guild Activity
Few things are more demoralizing than a guild with active members that do not interact with one another. The expectation of all members within the guild are to join in on events if online and able. The obligation to join as many events as possible builds team play, strategy, communication and more openly advances the community into successfully and routinely accomplishing events where team play is required. End game items and fame are almost always stashed away at the pits of some dungeon where the only hope of obtaining is through successful and balanced teams working towards a common goal. A win, win situation.
Website Activity
Being active on the guild website is sometimes just as important as being active in game, but Velox Aequitas has no requirement for membership to be active on the site. Members joining our ranks in game may exercise their right to maintain guild relations to in game only.
Due to the demand and need for guild administration as well as responsibilities that open up to higher ranked members within the guild, all members desiring a vertical move up the ranks to gain access to vaults or have other in game abilities must be a member on the guild website. An even greater demand and expectation to be an active user on the web site as well as in game comes with even higher ranks such as officer and first officer positions.
In short, where there is no real requirement for website activity for the basic member, we highly encourage members to become familiar with the guild web site. Vital and informative information can be obtained by reading our forums and guides; more crucial need to know guidelines and policies can only be found on the guild web site. Furthermore, sharing screenshots and journal entries only enhances the experience and is another nudge of encouragement and incentive.
Guild Solidarity
Pride and morale are important for the longevity of the guild. Velox Aequitas has chosen the judiciary implications of the colors blue and gray, and members are encouraged to stand tall and proudly display the colors binding each member of the guild in uniformity.
Guild Etiquette
It goes without saying much, other than everyone is expected to be polite and courteous to everyone, especially fellow guild mates and our alliance allies. Greeting members as they arrive in the lands facilitates social interactions, teamwork, guild activity and liveliness. This behavior is highly encouraged as it reflects on our public image and becomes a contagious habit throughout the gaming community.
Teamwork
Individuals seek guilds because they are tired of the nonsense and the frustration of too many chefs in the kitchen when they join pick up groups or random thrown together teams to accomplish an important goal. Velox Aequitas members should always assist each other when able and form teams even when it comes at the price of sacrificing your own experience in gaining levels sometimes. Escort lower levels when appropriate, hold ground for then when they are in need, these actions and others set the tone and the standard for what teamwork and being a guild is all about. The more members working together the more organized and the more attractive Velox Aequitas becomes to potential new recruits. In turn, this makes recruitment much easier and less of a task shared by all members of the guild. Reward those who rise above expectations and obligations.
Ventrilo
The guild has full use and capabilities of using the voice communication software, Ventrilo. Some members prefer to use it and some do not. Velox Aequitas makes no requirement upon its members to use ventrilo for events or meetings. It is encouraged to make use of its capabilities in order to relay directives to members in the battlefield much faster and efficiently; again encouraged but not required.
All members using Ventrilo may do so at any time and as long as they adhere to the Ventrilo Guidelines, specified on the guild website. (separately listed and maintained as its own web page).
Last Updated: March 28, 2010 by Sylvais
This charter contains the quintessential elements mandatory for a typical charter. Additionally, it also contains history, points of view, reasonings and, ever so boldly, my voice speaking for the membership of the guild. Rest assured, any opinions expressed by myself in this document are my own and do not necessarily reflect the views of any member in this guild. If there are significant discrepancies in fact or opinions expressed that are contrary to what any member feels that VA is about, they must take the responsibility to address the matter so that I can make appropriate corrections and apologies.
It is my expectation, as the guild leader, for the charter to be reviewed by any and all members of the guild before declaring it official. Acknowledgments will be given out to all contributors having substantial modifications or additions to the charter.
Introduction
A charter of a guild, can be defined as a collection of rules or policies that uphold a social structure or it could be something less formal, perhaps a summarization in an “About Us” section of a website; neither of those would suffice for our guild. I wanted the charter for Velox Aequitas to be all those things and more. Is it technically the correct template for a guild charter. Perhaps not, but as many ventures and activities our guild has endeavored over the years, we make whatever it is “our own” and go with what feels right; and such is the manner in which I began to document the Velox Aequitas Guild Charter.
The concept the ideal of writing this document has weighted heavily in my mind for far too long. Tossing around, why, how, this policy and that policy and careful to not step on any toes or offend; exhausting and without a single clue of where to begin, I never launched off the first sentence until now.
To friends of old and friends of new....
Admission & Membership
Our recruitment policy has and always will remain an open door. Velox Aequitas is a firm believer in letting everyone be a part of us as we will become a part of them for the duration of the recruitment process. Never have there been or will be any hard or harsh feelings for individuals who joined our ranks and decided that we are not the guild for them. On that note, the street is two way, not everyone will be a fit for our guild and we exercise the right to graciously say goodbye to any recruits trying out our guild that are not an appropriate fit, as we wish the best for their adventure.
Age
Velox Aequitas does not discriminate against age; anyone of any age group may apply to our ranks. However, it should be noted, the majority of our membership base ranges between the late 20s and late 30s.
Character Level
Velox Aequitas does not have a level requirement for membership acceptance. Any character of any level may apply to join our ranks.
Character Archetype
Velox Aequitas does not have a requirement on character archetype. We do not approve or disapprove membership to the guild based on character profession / archetype.
Time Zone
We do not approve or disapprove membership into Velox Aequitas based on a players physical location. A variety of members’ time zones are found within our ranks.
Personality
Although Velox Aequitas is a guild comprised of casual gamers, our member base personalities differ throughout. We do not seek a certain type of personality in a player to join our ranks but we do avoid drama queens, griefers and confrontational personas. As a rule of measure, it is almost always best to restrain from behaving extremely militaristic and antagonistic; while keeping alert attention spans, a positive attitude and an objective diplomatic eye will most definitely keep yourself in the guild’s good graces.
Gaming Style
Primarily you’ll find a casual gaming style is where most of the members get their fuel, with the exception here and there. But for the most part, no one is in any real hurry to complete the game or reach the maximum goal (if there is one); we simply enjoy gaming with friends, whether it be on our lower levels, or our mains, doesn’t really matter much to us because the fun factor is always present.
In grouping and adventuring, our noses aren’t turned toward the sky, if there is room in our adventure, and another wants to come, we give our priorities to our members first, but happily invite others to come along if there is an opening.
Giving everyone a fair chance in their endeavors is the premise on which we stand for. Always trying to remember to treat others exactly how you, yourself, would want to be treated.
Member Conduct
It is the expectation and responsibility of each member within the guild to carry and present one’s self as if the voice of Velox Aequitas. Online communication format is often misinterpreted and it is wise to maintain a grain of patience and perspective before speaking during a heated discussion.
Maturity is of the utmost importance to Velox Aequitas as each member interacts with other guild members, alliance members, the general population and even the opponent. Whether interactions occur on the battlefield, in the game, verbally or any online forum, chat system, the rules of membership conduct always apply as long as your guild tag says Velox Aequitas.
Misconduct and repeated inappropriate behavior impact negatively on the guild as whole and will not be tolerated. Dismissal from the guild is the line of disciplinary action taken if correction of members conduct is not rectified after the first or second warning.
Offensive Language
Velox Aequitas views cursing as improper etiquette which only brings on a negative atmosphere to permeate the member morale and guild well-being. Cursing will absolutely not be tolerated on any global, public or alliance chat system. Granted, everyone is victim to the occasional slip from time to time when we become frustrated or die suddenly and unexpectedly. However, when slips become excessive or frequent a warning will be issued if the member is not aware of the poor vocabulary choices made. Repeated and rebellious occurrences can lead up to and including dismissal from the guild.
Further, it should be noted, policing channels and monitoring everyone on a vocabulary crusade is also considered bad conduct. When warning another member of their foul language, first remember to use the best moral standards as a foundation for your judgement. If foul language is used from time to time in closed groups or in groups where no on is offended by the use of cursing repeatedly, then there is no reason to treat an individual like an infant by tattling. Policies, such as this one on cursing, are in place to set the standard for behavior as every member values the guild’s reputation, but they are not in place to be used as a black and white judiciary system to fire off as ammunition at another member, for whatever hypothetical disagreements come between them.
Foul Play
Actively performing any activity for the sole purpose of ruining another’s gaming fun will be dismissed from the guild, usually without warning. Examples include, training NPCs on unsuspecting allies, camping a spawn area where the enemy has no chance to even load into the scene and also but not limited to cheating by means of a hack or other exploit technique. These and other types of foul play are only a catalyst for a negative gaming and community experience; Velox Aequitas will in no way be associated with any individual, alliance and or guild involved in such acts.
Harassment & Discrimination
Members who engage in any harassment behavior of sexual, racial, sexual orientation, discrimination based on age, color, creed, physical or mental disability, ethnicity, gender identity, nationality or national origin, physical appearance, religion, political affiliation, sex or on any other basis will be removed from the guild immediately. Velox Aequitas has a zero tolerance level for such behavior.
Maturity & Unselfishness
There is an expected level of maturity for all members of the guild despite the age. Selfish individuals and cry babies are not welcome within our ranks and will be removed immediately. Identifying immature individuals are easily identified as the loudest hecklers and sore losers with childish behavior when it comes to loot and personal gain. Exhibiting immature behavior after being warned results in dismissal from the guild.
Roleplay
While Velox Aequitas is not a full-time roleplay guild, roleplay is always welcome. We do not enforce our members to roleplay in any of the chat channels but there are a few suggestions of encouragement that always provide a nice courtesy to others that do roleplay. It is preferential that any “out of character” comments be marked with either brackets (( )) or with “ooc”. Most roleplayers and even non-roleplayers tend to stay in character especially in /say and /em channels.
Take careful note that Roleplay, in any and all forms, does not provide an individual or group of individuals any license, permission, reason or ability to violate other guild policies and conduct requirements.
Member Obligations & Expectations
To maintain longevity, prosperity and peace within the guild, guidelines set up as expectations serve as the blanket to cover each member on their journey. These rules of measure and or guidelines benefit everyone as a whole by keeping our community a fun domain; take heed to them with a grain of salt as they should eventually become idle involuntary habits.
Game Activity
As life progresses, change occurs. Members have no obligation to remain active within any game Velox Aequitas has affiliations. We request, as a courtesy, members post their leave from a game or any long term absences on the forums; chances are good you will be missed. Additionally, non-active members might have their in-game rank adjusted to a “veteran” status until they return. Ranking on our website (outside of all games) remains unchanged unless member stated they will no longer be communicating with the guild.
Guild Activity
Few things are more demoralizing than a guild with active members that do not interact with one another. The expectation of all members within the guild are to join in on events if online and able. The obligation to join as many events as possible builds team play, strategy, communication and more openly advances the community into successfully and routinely accomplishing events where team play is required. End game items and fame are almost always stashed away at the pits of some dungeon where the only hope of obtaining is through successful and balanced teams working towards a common goal. A win, win situation.
Website Activity
Being active on the guild website is sometimes just as important as being active in game, but Velox Aequitas has no requirement for membership to be active on the site. Members joining our ranks in game may exercise their right to maintain guild relations to in game only.
Due to the demand and need for guild administration as well as responsibilities that open up to higher ranked members within the guild, all members desiring a vertical move up the ranks to gain access to vaults or have other in game abilities must be a member on the guild website. An even greater demand and expectation to be an active user on the web site as well as in game comes with even higher ranks such as officer and first officer positions.
In short, where there is no real requirement for website activity for the basic member, we highly encourage members to become familiar with the guild web site. Vital and informative information can be obtained by reading our forums and guides; more crucial need to know guidelines and policies can only be found on the guild web site. Furthermore, sharing screenshots and journal entries only enhances the experience and is another nudge of encouragement and incentive.
Guild Solidarity
Pride and morale are important for the longevity of the guild. Velox Aequitas has chosen the judiciary implications of the colors blue and gray, and members are encouraged to stand tall and proudly display the colors binding each member of the guild in uniformity.
Guild Etiquette
It goes without saying much, other than everyone is expected to be polite and courteous to everyone, especially fellow guild mates and our alliance allies. Greeting members as they arrive in the lands facilitates social interactions, teamwork, guild activity and liveliness. This behavior is highly encouraged as it reflects on our public image and becomes a contagious habit throughout the gaming community.
Teamwork
Individuals seek guilds because they are tired of the nonsense and the frustration of too many chefs in the kitchen when they join pick up groups or random thrown together teams to accomplish an important goal. Velox Aequitas members should always assist each other when able and form teams even when it comes at the price of sacrificing your own experience in gaining levels sometimes. Escort lower levels when appropriate, hold ground for then when they are in need, these actions and others set the tone and the standard for what teamwork and being a guild is all about. The more members working together the more organized and the more attractive Velox Aequitas becomes to potential new recruits. In turn, this makes recruitment much easier and less of a task shared by all members of the guild. Reward those who rise above expectations and obligations.
Ventrilo
The guild has full use and capabilities of using the voice communication software, Ventrilo. Some members prefer to use it and some do not. Velox Aequitas makes no requirement upon its members to use ventrilo for events or meetings. It is encouraged to make use of its capabilities in order to relay directives to members in the battlefield much faster and efficiently; again encouraged but not required.
All members using Ventrilo may do so at any time and as long as they adhere to the Ventrilo Guidelines, specified on the guild website. (separately listed and maintained as its own web page).
Last Updated: March 28, 2010 by Sylvais