The Prefaectus Order are a monastic peacekeeping organization of warrior scholars. It servers as the primary police and intelligence organization of the Esmeraldan Empire. It was created by King Labelle I in 4610. Members of the order are known as Master Prefects, Prefects or Sub-Prefects depending on their level of seniority.
The Prefects are a secular organization, not a religious order, though they do swear sacred oaths to follow the duties and restrictions of their ruler. Their role combines those of police officer, judge, jury and even executioner.
The Prefects primary role is to serve as a police force for the empire, answerable only to the Emperor and their local liege lord. Their role is to interpret the laws set down by the Royal Court and administer justice with an extreme lack of prejudice. As a secondary role, they serve as the intelligence organization for the empire. The order keeps very close tabs on all citizens to ensure loyalty and are greatly feared.
The leader of Prefaectus Order, known as the Prefect-Patris, is also given sole authority to crown the new Emperor on the advice of the Chancellor. Members of the order officially abandon all previous allegiances or titles when they take the oath to join the order, leaving no distinction between members who were formerly common-born or noble-born. High-ranking members often serve as advisors to lords in the kingdom and to military leaders.
Ranking Structure
| Rank | Jurisdiction | Direct Superior |
|---|---|---|
| Prefect-Patris | Esmeraldan Empire | Emperor |
| Master Prefect | Imperial Province | Prefect-Patris |
| Specialty Prefect | Prefaectus Council | Prefect-Patris |
| Prefect | Imperial City-State | Master Prefect |
| Sub-Prefect | Imperial City-State Sector | Prefect |
| Prefetan | apprentices | Sub-Prefect |
| Initiate | recruits | Sub-Prefect |
Recruitment
Serving in the order is considered to be a great honour and a sign of selfless devotion to the protection of the empire.