Caprine Code

The Caprine Code is the combined constitution and legal code of Natopia. The authoritative and official version is maintained by the Chancellor of Natopia in the Library of Law.

Section One - Natopian Laws, Their Effects, and Applications

• 1. The Caprine Code is the supreme body of law that governs the Empire and the Code's authority extends to all territories, demesnes, and other jurisdictions where the Empire or any entity of the Empire has the authority to govern.
• 2. Ignorance of the law does not excuse from compliance therewith.
• 3. Laws shall not have a retroactive effect unless it is so expressed.
  • 3.1 In no case shall the retroactive effect of a law operate to the prejudice of rights acquired under previous legislative action.
• 4. Acts executed contrary to the provisions of the law are void except when the law preserves their validity.
  • 4.1 Rights granted by the laws may be renounced, provided such renunciation be not contrary to law, to the public interest or public order, or prejudicial to the interest of a third person.
• 5. Laws shall only be repealed by means of subsequent laws, by directly amending the Caprine Code; and disuse, custom or practice to the contrary shall not impede their enforcement.
  • 5.1 Laws may be repealed either entirely or in part by other laws by removing entire sections or only certain clauses in the Caprine Code.
  • 5.2 A repeal is either express or implied. It is express when it is literally declared by a subsequent law; it is implied when the new law contains provision either contrary to or irreconcilable with those of the former law.
• 6. Any court in Natopia which shall refuse to render a decision on the pretext of silence, obscurity or unintelligibility of the laws, or for any other reason, shall be held liable, therefore.
  • 6.1 When there is no statute applicable to the case at issue, the court shall decide in accordance with equity, which means that natural justice, as embodied in the general principles of jurisprudence and in accepted and established usages and customs of Natopia only, shall be taken into consideration.
• 7. The laws relating to family rights and obligations, or to the status, condition and legal capacity of persons, shall be binding upon the citizens of Natopia, even if they may reside in a foreign country.
• 8. Personal property is subject to the laws of the nation of the owner thereof; real property to the laws of the country in which it is situated.
• 9. In matters which are the subject of special laws, any deficiency in such laws shall be supplied by the provisions of this Section.
• 10. When a law is clear and free from all ambiguity, the letter of the same shall not be disregarded, under the pretext of fulfilling the spirit thereof.
• 11. The words of a law shall generally be understood in their most usual definition, taking into consideration, not so much the exact grammatical rules governing the same, as their general and popular use.
• 12. Technical terms and phrases used in the arts and sciences shall be interpreted according to their received meaning and acceptation with the experts and authorities in the science, art or profession to which they refer.
• 13. When the words of a law are dubious, their meaning should be sought by examining and comparing the obscure expressions with other related words and sentences in an orderly manner, in order to ascertain their true meaning.
• 14. Laws which refer to the same matter, or whose object is the same, shall be interpreted with reference to each other, in order that what is clear in one may be employed for the purpose of explaining what is doubtful in another.
• 15. The most effectual and universal manner of discovering the true meaning of a law, when its expressions are dubious, is by considering the reason and spirit thereof, or the cause or motives which induced its enactment.
• 16. If a provision of an Act is or becomes illegal, invalid or unenforceable, that shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of the Act.
• 17. The distinction of laws into odious or favorable with a view of limiting or extending their provisions, shall not be made by those whose duty it is to interpret them.
• 18. Laws are equally applied to all without distinction of person or sex, except in the cases otherwise specially provided in the law.
• 19. The expressions "Natopia", "Natopian Empire", "Bovic Empire", "Natopian Nation" shall be held to comprehend, for all purposes, the Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation and all their lands, possessions and occupied territories.
• 20. For the purposes of this Section, a law shall be defined as a rule of conduct or action prescribed or formally recognized as binding or enforced by the government of the Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation.

(Added)

Section Two - The Frenzy

• 1. The Institution of the Frenzy is hereby established, to function as a House of the Representatives of the Empire.
  • 1.1 Various representatives from the Demesnes of the Empire will meet in Frenzy to create legislation for the benefit of the people of Natopia.
  • 1.2 The Frenzy will be presided over by the Chancellor, as established in Section Three.
• 2 Any citizen of the Empire may claim to represent the one demesne in which they primarily reside.
  • 2.1 Only citizens may speak on the Floor of the Frenzy. Foreigners may be invited by Representatives, with the Chancellor's permission, to address the Frenzy on a specific issue.
• 3. The Caprine Code is the supreme body of law that governs the Empire and the Code's authority extends to all territories, demesnes, and other jurisdictions where the Empire or any entity of the Empire has the authority to govern.
  • 3.1 If a proposed bill intends to alter the Caprine Code it must specify how the proposed bill will alter, amend, or expand the Caprine Code. If no explicit instructions are included within the text of the bill, and the bill passes, it will be considered a Resolution, as defined in §3.2 and §3.2.1.
  • 3.2. The Caprine Code only contains the permanent and long-term laws of the Empire. Decisions that require the approval of the Imperial Government but are not appropriate to enshrine in the Empire's legal code are considered Resolutions.
    • 3.2.1 Resolutions may direct Imperial officials to act in accordance with the Caprine Code, create foreign policy, enact the ratification process of a treaty or other agreement, claim additional land for the Empire, cede Imperial land, redraw internal boundaries, rename cities, issue city charters, or any other similar action to ensure effective governing.
• 4. Any representative may propose and become Sponsor of a Bill for consideration. All proposed legislation must have an impact on the entire Empire.
  • 4.1 The debating period for a Bill begins once it has been proposed, and lasts for at least 1 day.
    • 4.1.1 The sponsor of a Bill may declare it to be withdrawn at any point during the period of debate.
  • 4.2 The voting period for a Bill will begin after a representative moves the question, and a second representative approves. Voting will last no more than 3 days from the time of the seconding motion. The Chancellor may close a vote early if a) all representatives have voted or b) the outcome cannot be changed by uncast votes.
• 5. Any representative may amend a Bill while it is being debated. Grammatical, factual, stylistic, or other cosmetic changes are considered friendly by default and the Sponsor or Chancellor may freely amend such suggestions making careful note of the changes. Should a Sponsor disagree with an amendment, an amending vote will begin in which a majority of the representatives must approve of the amended version.
• 6. Should a situation arise that is not defined by these procedures, the Chancellor will issue emergency procedures to be followed until this piece of legislation can be amended by the Frenzy to resolve the situation.
• 7. Bills that receive more positive votes than negative votes are passed by the Chancellor after the vote ends. Positive votes are: aye, yes, yea, in favor, etc. Negative votes are: no, nay, against, etc. The Chancellor may accept alternate wording if the intent to vote for or against the bill is clear.
• 8. The Chancellor maintains and publicizes the Caprine Code for public scrutiny by ensuring it is up to date with the current actions of the Frenzy. The Chancellor has the authority to number or renumber sections and clauses to maintain a logical consistency within the Code. The Chancellor may change any typographic or grammatical errors they may find.

(Amended Geburtsbur 19, 5SE) (Amended Liebluary 19, 6SE) (Amended Regnuary 22, 6 SE) (Amended Konil 9, 6 SE) (Amended) (Amended) (Amended) (Amended) (Renumbered)

Section Three - The Imperial Chancellery

• 1. The Imperial Chancellery is established as the executive arm of the Imperial Government.
• 2. The Chancellor presides over the Frenzy, maintains the Library of Law, serves as head of the government, executes the will of the Frenzy, upholds and enforces the Caprine Code, oversees immigration, recommends foreign policy, grows and maintains the economy, and administers the normal affairs of government.
• 3. The Chancellor issues Chancellorial Decrees that have the authority of law when the Frenzy is unable to convene or in matters of national emergency.
  • 3.1 Frenzy Resolutions overturn Chancellorial Decrees.
• 4. The Imperial Chancellery has subordinate departments to assist in carrying out executive duties. The Chancellor appoints subordinates to administer the following departments:
  • 4.1 The Ministry of Information, responsible for cartography, the Bureau of Assistance Services, Empire Library, and the Library of Law.
  • 4.2 The Ministry of Security, responsible for immigration, maintaining the List of Protected Persons, emergency service and temporary administration for collapsed Demesnes (16.4).
  • 4.3 The Ministry of Justice, responsible for the Imperial Natopian Constabulary, providing legal advice to the Imperial Government, prosecuting cases, and representing the Imperial Government in courts of law.
  • 4.4 The Ministry of the Exchequer, responsible for the census, the Imperial Bank of the Natopian Nation, and the economy.
  • 4.5 The Ministry of Culture, responsible for safeguarding and supporting the unique Natopian culture, heritage and customs.
• 5.(Deleted)
• 6. Chancellors are appointed by Resolution of the Frenzy, or by an Imperial general election so authorized.
• 7. During any temporary absence of the Chancellor from the Frenzy or the Imperial Chancellery, or a vacancy in the office of Chancellor, the most senior appointee within the Imperial Chancellery assumes the duties and rights of the Chancellor, insofar as it is practicable to do so and provided that the initial period of absence or vacancy is at least 3 Natopian months (1 week).
• 8. The Chancellor issues Executive Orders to fulfill the obligations outlined in this Section. Executive Orders are instruments of government to instruct government officials where the Imperial Chancellery has jurisdiction to govern.

(Amended) (Amended to elect Mr. Eucalyptos, Novaber 18, 7 SE) (Amended) (Amended) (Amended) (Amended) (Renumbered)

Section Four - The Emperor

• 1. The Emperor (who shall be titled Empress if she is a woman) is the head of state. The Emperor is the symbol of the Empire of Natopia and of the unity of the Natopian Nation. The Emperor is styled Most Bovic Majesty, and holds power to regulate the Imperial Court and define the symbols of his person, office and court.
• 2. The judicial powers of Natopia are exercised in the name of the Emperor.
• 3. The Emperor appoints ambassadors, liaisons, and delegates to foreign states, entities, and organizations.
  • 3.1 The Emperor grants amnesty, commutes punishments, and issues pardons upon advice of the Chancellor.
• 4. The Emperor receives foreign heads of state, ambassadors, ministers and other envoys.
  • 4.1 The Emperor, or his Secretary for Foreign Affairs, conducts foreign affairs and negotiates treaties on behalf of the Empire in accordance with all foreign policies established by the Imperial Government.
• 5. The Emperor is commander-in-chief of the Natopian armed forces, with the traditional title of Grand Commander of the Natopian Defense Force.
  • 5.1 The Emperor, or his Secretary for Defense, performs day-to-day such operational and administrative duties as are necessary to maintain the armed forces of Natopia.
• 6. (Deleted)
• 7. The Emperor performs such ceremonial functions as are necessitated by the Chancellor and the Frenzy.
• 8. The Emperor remains Emperor until a demise of the throne. A demise of the throne constitutes the Emperor's death, abdication or removal. An abdication is written by the Emperor's own hand and is witnessed by the Frenzy. The Frenzy may vote to remove the Emperor if he has been absent from Natopia for more than one Natopian year (1 month). Removal is then immediate. Should the Emperor have been absent for more than two Natopian years, his removal is effected automatically. Death must be attested by the Chancellor and the Frenzy.
• 9. The Emperor must have an Instrument of Succession in effect during their reign. In the event of the demise of the throne, the first person in the order of succession who is both willing and able becomes Emperor.
  • 9.1 The Instrument of Succession persists during the transition between emperors and remains in its most recent state until explicitly altered by the new Emperor. The Emperor maintains the Instrument of Succession regularly, by imperial decree, to ensure the list of successors is accurate, void of deceased persons, and beneficial to Natopia.
  • 9.2 The Pentheros of the Dozan Bovic Church confers Bous' divine approval of the new Emperor by officiating the new Emperor's ceremonial coronation. Should the Pentheros refuse to crown the Emperor, the Emperor must, in order to remain Emperor, receive the trust and confidence of the Frenzy by Resolution.
  • 9.3 Ability to inherit the throne, as mentioned in 3.9 above, is qualified as being a citizen of Natopia prior to the demise of the throne and active in national or demesnial affairs for two Natopian Years prior to the demise of the throne. If no successors fulfill these requirements, the Frenzy will select a new Emperor by Resolution.
• 10. During a temporary absence of the Emperor that exceeds a duration of three Natopian months (6 Gregorian days), the Viceroy shall fulfil all critical responsibilities of the Emperor.
  • 10.1 The Viceroy is a permanent position in the Imperial Government, serving as a deputy for the Emperor, assisting the Emperor in his daily functions, and will assume the Emperor's powers during absences declared by the Emperor.
  • 10.2 The Viceroy may be directed by the Emperor or by Resolution of the Frenzy to perform Imperial duties in the Empire's name at anytime.
• 11. (Deleted)
• 12. The Court of the Calm Waters is the office of the Secretary for Foreign Affairs.
  • 12.1 The Secretary for Foreign Affairs holds the ceremonial title of Chamberlain of the Court of the Calm Waters.
• 13. The Court of the Verdant Gardens is the office of the Secretary for Defense.
  • 13.1 The Secretary for Defense holds the ceremonial title of Chamberlain of the Court of the Verdant Gardens.
• 14. The Emperor may confer the title of Prince/Princess of Natopia and the style Imperial Highness on such persons eligible to succeed to the Throne in accordance with the Instrument of Succession.

(Amended) (Amended) (Amended) (Amended) (Amended) (Amended) (Amended) (Renumbered)

Section Five - Calendar

• A. Correspondence to Gregorian calendar

• • 1. The Gregorian year, month and day correspond to the Natopian calendar according to this law.
  • 2. Each Gregorian month corresponds with a Natopian year. A 31-day Gregorian month is a long Natopian year (long year). A 30-day Gregorian month is a short Natopian year (short year). The Gregorian February is the peculiar year and is either short (short peculiar year or shortest year, 28 Gregorian days) or long (long peculiar year, 29 Gregorian days).
  • 3. Each Natopian year begins on 00:00:01 UTC on the first Gregorian day of the Gregorian month.

• B. Years of the Natopian calendar

• • 1. The years of the Natopian calendar are numbered years after the death of Norton (μΝ, μετά θάνατον Νόρτου). Accordingly, the Gregorian February 1880 corresponds to 1 μΝ and the Gregorian March 1880 to 2 μΝ
  • 2. The year of the death of Norton (January 1880) corresponds to year 0 of the Natopian calendar.
  • 3. The years of the Natopian calendar occurring before the death of Norton (πΝ, προ θάνατου Νόρτου) are numbered with reversely. Accordingly Gregorian December 1879 corresponds to 1 πΝ and November 1879 to 2 πΝ.
  • 4. A long Natopian year has 372 days. A short Natopian year has 360 days. A long Natopian peculiar year has 348 years and a short Natopian peculiar year has 336 days.

• C: Months of the Natopian calendar

• • 1. The Natopian year begins with the month of Novaber. The following months are Liebluary, Grunil, Regnuary, Blumuar, Sonnuber, Friedeber, Natopuary, Cowtide, Bulltober, Butterary, Konil, Tasneber, Dankember and Geburtsber.
  • 2. Geburtsber is a month of all years except in a short peculiar year in which case Dankember is the last month of the year. In all other years, Geburtsber is the last month of the year.
  • 3. Each month, except Geburtsber, has 24 days. Geburtsber has 12 days in long peculiar years, 24 days in short years and 36 days in long years.

(Amended Blumuar, 1610 (old: Liebluary 10, 7 SE)) (Amended) (Renumbered)

Section Six - Icons of the State and Nation

• A. State Icons

• • 1. The Flag of Natopia represents both the entire state and nation. It is an appropriate symbol for the government or people at any circumstance. It has a length to width ratio of 2:1. The design of the flag includes a green chevron on a field of white. A narrow purple triangle is imposed on the chevron with two blue triangles on the open sides as well. A pale on the fly is predominantly blue with a thin narrow green stripe towards the hoist. All fields of color are divided by a thin white border.
    • 1.1 An alternate flag using a black field may be used on military bases, vessels, and duty uniforms (the white version must appear on formal dress uniforms), to be flown at embassies at the discretion of that ambassador, used during periods of national mourning, or in environments that would otherwise make maintenance of a white flag impractical.
  • 2. The Heraldic Achievement of Natopia represents the state and government. The Coat of Arms of Natopia resembles the primary version of the Flag of Natopia rotated 90 degrees counter-clockwise and, when possible, the Coat of Arms of the House of the reigning Emperor are displayed as an escutcheon of pretence. Atop the escutcheon, a Sovereign's helm adorned with the Imperial Crown of Natopia, itself topped with the personal Crest of the reigning Emperor when possible. Encircling the escutcheon is the collar of the Order of the Black Hole. Supporting it are two goats rampant, standing on a pedestal above a scroll depicting the National Motto.
    • 2.2 The Court of the Verdant Gardens is charged with maintaining the Heraldic Achievement of Natopia, Coat of Arms of Natopia, and all affiliated emblems and imagery associated with it.
  • 3. The Imperial Jewels represent the authority and prestige of the Imperial government. The Jewels are National Treasures and include the Imperial Crown, the Sword of Sovereignty, and the Scepter of the Fleur-de-Natopi. They are owned by the reigning Emperor and kept in perpetual trust by the Government to ensure their preservation for posterity. The Emperor, by the authority of Section Four, clause 1, of this Code has full rights to define and use these treasures as he deems appropriate.

• B. National Icons

• • 1. The Cross of Sovereignty, or Imperial Seal, represents the sovereign authority of the nation. It is a stylized green cross with a circular center with another smaller purple circle and in that a stylized "N" is to be cut out. The arms of the cross are adorned in blue endings.
  • 2. The National Animal is the goat. It represents the steadfastness, resourcefulness, and stubbornness of the people.
  • 3. The National Bird is the phoenix and represents the rebirth of the Nation in the Second Epoch.
  • 4. The National Motto is "Peace Through Silent Oppression," and reminds citizens of the oppressive republic that Natopians struggled to reform into a glorious and progressive empire.
  • 5. The National Anthem is "O Great Nation" by Nathan Waffel-Paine and is to the tune of Beethoven's "Ode to Joy."

O Great Nation, My Great Nation, pleas for peace and sovereignty. Devote your life to our Great Strife while singing of hope and peace. All of us will put our trust into the Nation we hold dear. O Great Nation, My Great Nation, pleas for peace and sovereignty.

O Empire, my Empire, hear our cries for truth and love. Unite the earth in one Great Berth under the Empire's rule. Make this world for young and old a place to live a worthy life. O Empire, my Empire, hear our cries for truth and love.

Our dear Frenzy, O dear Frenzy, protect the Nation from all. Defend our Rights with all your Mights so that we all may prosper. Serve with valor and with candor to attain the goal we seek. Our dear Frenzy, O dear Frenzy], protect the Nation from all. (As amended) (Renumbered)

Section Seven - National Holidays

• A. Purpose

• • 1. Special days of the year are set aside to honor specific people, things or events in Natopian history. Unless otherwise noted, the public offices of the Empire are closed on these days. The government of the Empire may decide to commemorate these days in ways beyond closing offices.

• B. Holidays

• • 1. Novaber 8 - Restoration Day; to commemorate the restoration of the Natopian state after the Dark Age and the beginning of the Second Epoch.
  • 2. Liebluary 12 - Citizens' Day; to celebrate all citizens, past and present, who have contributed to Natopia's continuing success. Offices will remain open for this day.
  • 3. Blumuar 24 - Bagel and Juice Day; to celebrate the founding of the original Free Juice and Bagels Party in Natopia. Offices will remain open for this day.
  • 4. Sonnuber 24 - Independence Day; to commemorate Natopia's peaceful secession from the Union of Elwynn, Amokolia and Hurmu.
  • 5. Friedeber 7 - Green, Blue and Purple Day; Natopia's gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender Pride day. Imperial offices will remain open for this day.
  • 6. Friedeber 20 - Purification Day; Celebration of the collapse of the Venerable Union of Aligned States.
  • 7. Natopuary 23 - Natopia Day; to commemorate the founding of the original City of Natopia by Nett Opeagh marking the anniversary of Natopia as a sovereign nation.
  • 8. Cowtide 24 – Cowmas, to celebrate the restoration of the Holy City of Smjörkýr.
  • 9. Tasneber 7 - NDF Day; to thank all members of the Natopian Defense Forces past and present for their service.
  • 10. Tasneber 22 - Remembrance Day; the date that Athlon seceded from Natopia, marking the end of the First Epoch as officials and lawmakers fled from Lindstrom City to Athlon to escape the disastrous Capelle Administration which presided over the collapse of Natopia as a centralized state.
  • 11. Geburtsber 1 - Orbital Dominance Day;The space program officially began, celebration of NOOP, the Spacefleet, NISS, New Lindstrom, and all successes of Natopia's long history of space flight.
  • 12. Between Tasneber 22 and Novaber 8 - Season of Sorrow; represents the exact length of the Dark Age during which no Natopian state existed, but the Natopian nation existed in exile in Athlon and South Mehlville. Offices will remain open for the duration of this observance.

(Amended) (Renumbered)

Section Eight - Immigration and the Census

• A. Immigration

• • 1. Any person may apply for citizenship in the Empire.
  • 2. The Chancellor or designated subordinate approves or denies applications for citizenship.
  • 3. Applications are denied if applicant is determined to be detrimental to the people and government of the Empire.
  • 4. Prospective citizens must declare a residence in one of the demesnes of the Empire.
  • 5. The name used on the application for citizenship is the legal name for that individual.
  • 6. Citizens are subject to all laws, policies, and decisions of the government of the Empire.

• B. Census

• • 1. The Imperial Chancellery conducts a census of all current Natopians.
  • 2. A census will begin on the first day of every four years, beginning with the year 1616.
  • 3. The census consists of at least two questions: Name and Residence.
  • 4. The Chancellor decides what additional questions will be included on the census.

(Renumbered)

Section Nine - Offences and Punishments

• A. Offences

No person, nor persons, organization, government, group, or other legal entity, may cause harm to another within the Empire, whether to a Citizen or a foreigner, by means of the following:

• • 1. Impersonating a member of either the government of the Empire or a court of law.
  • 2. Causing physical harm to either a person or their property, or otherwise depriving them of their property or assets without a specific or direct order of a court of law.
  • 3. Invading the privacy of a person unless under a specific and direct order of a court of law.
  • 4. Providing false or misleading information to either the government or a court of law.
  • 5. Profiting from the creative work of another without either their express consent or a specific and direct order of a court of law.
  • 6. Entering into an area from which they are prohibited by a specific and direct order of a court of law.
  • 7. Destroying the creative work of another.
  • 8. Discriminating against another based on sex, race, age, gender identity, religion, orientation, or residency status within the Empire; for the avoidance of otherwise unavoidable discrimination by residency, any authorised official shall grant any changes of status in any form that may be required.
  • 9. Preventing, altering, curtailing, or contorting the speech and expression of another for any reason unless under a specific and direct order of a court of law.
  • 10. Taking action to cause harm or dishonor to the government of the Empire or a court of law.
  • 11. Taking action to threaten the sovereignty and authority of the government of the Empire, or the authority of a court of law.
  • 12. Engaging in acts of piracy, as defined by the MTO Convention on the Laws of the Seas, Section Ten of this Code, in Natopian territorial waters or on the High Seas.

• B. Punishments

The Imperial Government may enforce these punishments on persons found in a court of law to have violated any section of this Code. The sentencing court must apply a punishment befitting the severity of the crime, taking into account loss of property (real or intellectual) and/or life.

• • 1. Termination of government office and/or position within the Imperial government.
  • 2. Removal of honors, titles, or awards.
  • 3. Termination or suspension of citizenship.
  • 4. Fines, fees, or payment to individuals, organizations, companies, or the government to cover damages.
  • 5. Temporary exile from all Natopian jurisdictions.
  • 6. Permanent banishment from all Natopian jurisdictions.
  • 7. Compel offenders to participate in government-approved rehabilitation programs.
  • 8. Formal censure for government officials.

(Amended) (Amended) (Renumbered)

Section Ten - Laws of the Seas

• 1. The Frenzy, having so ratified, is bound to the laws and provisions of the Micras Treaty Organization's Convention on the Laws of the Seas.

Section Eleven - Ptia

• 1. The Frenzy recognizes, with regret and sorrow, that the Nelaga Territories have dissolved and fallen to the sea and therefore returned sole custodianship of the island of Ptia to the Bovic Tamperfite Empire of the Natopian Nation.
• 2. The unique and special historical resources on the island are of immense value to the world and must be preserved and not subjected to the wills and whims of the politics of the demesnes of Natopia.
• 3. The Island of Ptia will remain an extra-demesnial entity, governed directly by the government of the Empire. It will be considered a place open to international research and scholarship.
• 4. The Great Soloral Library, established by Guardian Andreas in the First Year of the Second Epoch, will remain open to all scholars of ancient cultures.
• 5. A larger Institute for the Research of Micron Peoples will be built around the Soloral Library.
• 6. Administratively, the island's institutions will be considered annexes and additions of the Empire Library.
• 7. Any artifacts, archives, records, &c. found on the island are owned by the people of Micras as part of a shared cultural heritage but are held in perpetual trust by the Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation for the objects' maintenance and safekeeping.
• 8. Access to the island will be controlled through Port Trias and only authorized vessels operating under the specific permission of the Imperial government may dock at Ptia.

(Amended)

Section Twelve - List of Protected Persons

• 1. A List of Protected Persons who have been deemed dangerous to the physical safety of the citizens of this Empire is maintained by the Frenzy.
• 2. The Frenzy determines the level of protection necessary for each individual placed on this list: a) removal; b) limited access; or c) surveillance.
• 3. Individuals placed under Category A will be prevented from entering any part of Natopia or its protectorates or other possessions. Individuals under Category B will have access to public forums such as the businesses, public forums, and facilities of Lindstrom Square. Each demesne and Protectorate will decide independently if a Category B person may enter. Persons listed as Category B may be elevated to Category A if caught committing acts of violence or discord. Category C individuals will be allowed free access to the entirety of the Empire's resources but will be have surveillance on them at all times while within Natopia's jurisdiction. They may be subject to immediate and unannounced elevation to Category B if caught inciting violence or discord.
• 4. The Imperial Chancellery may temporarily elevate Protected Persons from category C to category B until the Frenzy confirms or rescinds such an action.
• 5. The Frenzy authorizes the Imperial Chancellery to take necessary means to ensure the accessibility of these Protected Persons is appropriately managed at all times.
• 6. The List of Protected Persons only applies to those who are not a citizen of the Empire or its Protectorates. Persons listed as Category A or B will not be permitted to immigrate to the Empire.
• 7. The following individuals will be listed as Category A Protected Persons: Giles Melang (and all known aliases)
• 8. The following individuals will be listed as Category B Protected Persons: Walter Poldark, Welf von Walstadt, Theodor von Walstadt, Angela von Walstadt.
• 9. The following individuals will be listed as Category C Protected Persons: None
• 10. Individuals may be added or removed from these lists by a simple majority decision of the Frenzy.

(Amended) (Amended)

Section Thirteen - Awards and Honors

• A. The Cross of Sovereignty

• • 1. The Chancellor may grant any person the Cross of Sovereignty for serving the Nation and People.
  • 2. There are three levels of the award for differing levels of service.
  • 3. The Bronze Cross of Sovereignty may be awarded to persons who have provided an outstanding service to the Nation and People.
  • 4. The Silver Cross of Sovereignty may be awarded to persons who have continually served the Nation and People in an excellent and upstanding manner which has resulted in significant cultural or political progress.
  • 5. The Gold Cross of Sovereignty is reserved for those persons who have made a personal sacrifice for the betterment of the Nation and People.
  • 6. Recipients are entitled to wear the emblems of the appropriate medal and designate themselves as a Natopian Laureate.
  • 7. Previous recipients are recognized as having held this award continuously.

• B. The Most Noble Order of the Yoshi

• • 1. The Emperor may appoint people who are not citizens of the Empire to this Order.
  • 2. The recipient is a Knight/Dame of the Yoshi and may use the postnomials KY/DY.
  • 3. The recipient is entitled to wear the emblems of this Order.
  • 4. Previous recipients are recognized as having held this honor continuously.
  • 5. Additional regulations of this Order are created at the Emperor's pleasure by Imperial Decree.

• C. The Ancient and Secret Order of the Black Hole

• • 1. The Emperor may appoint citizens of the Empire to this Order.
  • 2. The recipient is a Knight/Dame of the Black Hole may use the postnomials KBH/DBH.
  • 3. The recipient is entitled to wear the emblems of this Order.
  • 4. Previous recipients are recognized as having held this honor continuously.
  • 5. Additional regulations of this Order are created at the Emperor's pleasure by Imperial Decree.

• D. The Combat Service Medal and White Sword of Honor

• • 1. The Emperor, as Grand Commander of the Natopian Defense Force, may present the Combat Service Medal to any member of the military who participated in the defense of the Natopian Nation and her allies.
  • 2. The White Sword of Honor may be awarded by the Emperor to a recipient of the Combat Service Medal for exemplary service in a particular engagement.
  • 3. Previous recipients are recognized as having held these honors continuously.

• E. The Honorable Order of the Palette

• • 1. The Emperor may appoint any person to this Order for artistic merit.
  • 2. The recipient is a Companion of the Palette may use the postnomials CP.
  • 3. The recipient is entitled to wear the emblems of this Order.
  • 4. Previous recipients are recognized as having held this honor continuously.
  • 5. Additional regulations of this Order are created at the Emperor's pleasure by Imperial Decree.

• F. Emblems and Precedence of the Awards

• • 1. The Court of the Verdant Gardens creates and maintains the emblems attributed to each award and order.
  • 2. For matters of protocol the precedence of the awards is as follows:
    • 2.1 The Gold Cross of Sovereignty, The Order of the Black Hole, The Silver Cross of Sovereignty, The Order of the Yoshi, The White Sword of Honor, The Bronze Cross of Sovereignty, The Combat Service Medal, The Order of the Palette, The Triumphal Order of the Four Quarters.

• G. The Triumphal Order of the Four Quarters

• • 1. The Emperor may appoint Princes and Princesses of Natopia to this Order.
  • 2. The Emperor, as master of the order, holds the titles Triumphal Defender of All Four Quarters, Lord of Tarsica.
  • 3. Members of the Order hold the title Lord/Lady Triumphant in All Four Quarters and may use the postnomials LTQ.
  • 4. The members of this Order are entitled to wear the emblems of this Order.
  • 5. Additional regulations of this Order are created at the Emperor's pleasure by Imperial Decree.

(Amended) (Amended) (Amended)

Section Fourteen - Bureau of Assistance Services

• 1. The Imperial Chancellery will create and oversee a Bureau of Assistance Services, hereafter referred to as the BAS.
• 2. The BAS will coordinate the various schools, institutions, organizations, treatment facilities, welfare clinics and companies that deal exclusively or primarily with people citizens with disabilities, including physical and cognitive impairments arising from trauma, disease, or congenital conditions.
• 3. At the sole discretion of BAS, and subject to its dictation, media producers will be required to provide alternative digital and hardcopy formats of their products in order to allow visually and audibly impaired citizens the full enjoyment of popular and emancipatory culture.
  • 3.1 Book, magazine, and print publishers must provide Braille translations of all material they publish at a sensible ratio of Braille to printed text dictated by the market and demand.
  • 3.2 All visual stations operating or broadcasting in Natopia must provide selectable quality captioning services. Transcripts of televised programs written in Braille should be made readily available. These transcripts will be available at no additional cost beyond what an average viewer of that programme would be expected to pay.
• 4. The BAS will coordinate, sustain and direct the development of genetic, biomechanical and Prosthetic cures and palliative treatments, with a view to lessening and eventually eradicating the burden and stigma of disability from society and to restore the afflicted to their maximum potential utility as able-bodied citizens.
  • 4.1. The BAS will contribute to the funding of healthcare initiatives, including - but not limited to - selective gene therapies and targeted antenatal screenings, that will contribute to the eradication of congenital conditions that result in long-term disability and needless suffering.
• 5. The BAS will be funded by a 50% Valued-Added Tariff on products imported from the Holy Empire of Jingdao at Sea, until such time that a Treaty has between the Empire and Jingdao at Sea has entered force, and a 1% Income Tax levy on all the income earners in the Bovic Empire of the Natopia Nation.

(Amended)

Section Fifteen - Thalassa Administration

(Repealed)

Section Sixteen - Demesnes

• 1. A Demesne is a region of the Empire which may be governed by a local government.
  • 1.1. A Demesne may be established by an addition to the Caprine Code.
  • 1.2. Any special conditions pertaining to the existence or operation of a Demesne are defined in the Caprine Code.
  • 1.3. A local government may be defined in the Caprine Code or otherwise by a consensus of the residents of a Demesne.
    • 1.3.1 When a local government is established by local consensus, the structure of the Demesne's new government must be submitted to the Emperor for approval by assent.
    • 1.3.2 If the Emperor rejects a Demesne's proposed government, the residents of that Demesne may petition the Frenzy directly for its approval by Resolution.
  • 1.4. A local government shall operate in accordance with all applicable laws of the Caprine Code.
  • 1.5. Where individually permitted by the Caprine Code, the head of the local government of a Demesne may conduct foreign affairs with another sovereign state, provided that: permission to do so has been granted in advance by the Emperor; there is no conflict with any foreign policy of the Empire; and any resultant treaty or other agreement does not conflict with any of the Empire's existing treaties or other agreements.
    • 1.5.1. Furthermore, such treaties and agreements must be capable of being adopted solely as a local law in the Demesne and may be subject to final approval of the Frenzy.
• 2. The Demesnes of the Empire are: Alrodey, Arboria, Cape St. Sherrith & Graven Island, Egale, Elijah's Rest, Flaventia, Istvanistan, Klaasiya, Leng, Neridia, New Aquitane, New Dracoheim, Opaeghia, Saint Andre, Skerry Isles, Sororiya, Thalassa, Tinalkina, Uppland, Universalis, Walstadt.
  • 2.1 The Demesnes of the Empire may form unions for geographic, dynastic, political, or cultural convenience. The government of each Demesne must consent to the formation of a union with another Demesne. United demesnes are recognized in the Caprine Code.
    • 2.1.1 Arboria, New Aquitane, the Skerry Isles, and Tinalkina are united as the entity known as The Principality of Arboria.
    • 2.1.2 Klaasiya, Egale, and New Dracoheim are united as the entity known as the Crown Duchy of the Marches and the Princely Isle.
    • 2.1.3 (Deleted)
    • 2.1.4 Leng and Cape St. Sherrith & Graven Island are united as the entity known as the Kingdom of Leng.
    • 2.1.5 Thalassa, St. Andre, Neridia, and Istvanistan are united as the entity known as Most Serene Union of Thalassa, St. Andre, and Neridia.
    • 2.1.6 Uppland and Opaeghia are united as the entity known as the Kingdom of Uppland.
    • 2.1.7 Elijah's Rest and Walstadt are united as the entity known as the Elian Lands
  • 2.2 Demesnes may organize their own land into subdivisions.
    • 2.2.1 Demesnes may petition the Frenzy to claim oversea colonies or expand into adjacent land.
    • 2.2.2 Demesnes may petition the Frenzy to unite inactive Demesnes with more active Demesnes.
• 3. In the event of the ultimate dissolution or destruction of the Natopian Empire, State and Government, all Demesnes may exist as sovereign and independent states on the land that they control on the date of Natopia's dissolution.
  • 3.1. Any demesnes united together remain attached to each other in this circumstance.
  • 3.2. No Demesne may otherwise leave the Empire.
• 4. In the event of the total collapse of a Demesne's government, the Imperial Chancellery will have the responsibility to maintain law and order within that Demesne until such as time as the local population reasserts its right to self-govern.
• 5. Any change, excluding for reasons under 4. of this Section, in the geographic, dynastic, political, or cultural status of a Demesne undertaken by the Frenzy shall require the consent of that Demesne's Leader. Should it be refused within one Natopian year, such change shall still be applicable provided it receives a 2/3rd majority in the Frenzy and the consent of the Emperor. Otherwise, if no notice of refused consent is given within this period, the status change shall be considered consented to by that Demesne's Leader.
• 6. A Demesne cannot be removed from the Caprine Code except by a bill proposed by the Emperor receiving 3/4 approval of the Frenzy.(As amended)

(As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended)

Section Seventeen - The Natopian Defense Force

• 1. The Natopian Defense Force (NDF) is the unified military armed force of Natopia and includes all units, bases, vehicles, personnel, and other affiliated resources that deal primarily with the protection of the people of the Empire from foreign hostility.
• 2. The Emperor is the Grand Commander of the Natopian Defense Force.
• 3. The Secretary for Defense, appointed by the Emperor, will perform day-to-day such operational and administrative duties as are necessary to maintain the Defense Force at an optimal condition of force readiness, and offer military advice to the Chancellor and Emperor on the strategic threats, weaknesses and opportunities facing the Empire.
• 4. The NDF is composed of three service branches: the Natopian Army, the Natopian Navy, and the Natopian Spacefleet; each has primary respective jurisdiction over protecting the land, sea, and airspace of the Empire.
  • 4.1 Each branch will maintain equivalent ranking hierarchies and compatible unit organization, to be determined in detail by the Secretary for Defense.
  • 4.2 When operating beyond the atmosphere of Micras the Spacefleet will have administrative and organizational autonomy.
  • 4.3 The Natopian International Space Station and New Lindstrom Tarsican Base are Natopian territories subject to the Caprine Code, and administered by the Natopian Spacefleet using its organizational autonomy.
• 5. The Defense Force can never be ordered, by the Emperor, Chancellor or Frenzy, to invade or attack a sovereign entity unless the interests of the Empire are first attacked or directly threatened.
  • 5.1 The Emperor may make reactive decisions to send the NDF into conflict zones to prevent the loss of Natopian life and property.
  • 5.2 The Frenzy may make proactive decisions to send the NDF into conflict zones to prevent the loss of Natopian life and property.
• 6. Demesnes are encouraged to operate Demesne Defense Forces only in their respective jurisdictions: a militia, an air guard, and a coast guard within the Demesne's Reserve Zone (as defined by the MTOCLOS).
  • 6.1 Demesnes may not construct or operate a spacefleet for military or defensive purposes.
  • 6.2 Demesne Defense Forces may be nationalized by the Frenzy in times of dire emergency.
• 7. The NDF is not a police or law-enforcing organization.

(Amended) (Amended)

Section Eighteen - The Skerry Isles

• 1. (Deleted)
• 2. (Deleted)
  • 2.1 (Deleted)

(As amended) (As amended)

Section Nineteen - To Divest SATCo of Colonial Responsibilities

• 1. The Saint Andre Trading Company (SATCo) may no longer exercise colonial or governmental affairs, either explicit or implied.
  • 1.1 Clause 2.1 of the Act to Establish New Demesnes will be amended to read as follows: "The local government for the Demesne of Alkhiva shall be administered by the Imperial Chancellery; failing which it shall be administered by the Imperial Court.
• 2. Cape Cran Bay is added to the Demesne of Thalassa.
• 3. SATCo no longer has the right to send a representative to this Frenzy.
• 4. The Port of Istvan is added to the Demesne of Arboria.
  • 4.1 the city of Port Saint Andre is ceded to the Free State of Haifa in exchange for the Principality of Greater Walstadt.

(As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended)

Section Twenty - Capital City Administration

• 1. The capital of the Empire is Lindstrom.
  • 1.1 All organs and bodies of the Government of the Empire will meet in Lindstrom if practical to the intended service.
• 2. The territory around Lindstrom, as is represented on the MCS map, is recognized as the Free and Imperial City of Lindstrom.
• 3. The Imperial Chancellery will provide administrative services for the Free and Imperial City.
  • 3.1 The Frenzy will create laws and regulations specific to the Free and Imperial City as needed.
• 4. The Free and Imperial City of Lindstrom is a special territory of the Empire, owned directly by the Government itself and not part of any other demesne or territory.

Section Twenty-One - Walstadt

• 1. The Lordship of Walstadt is vested Ayreon-Kalirion as Lord of Walstadt, and in his heirs and successors according to the recommendations of the Council of Elders of the Line of Ayreon-Kalirion.
• 2. All persons inhabiting Walstadt shall be granted Natopian citizenship upon declaration to, and subject to approval by, the Imperial Chancellery.
• 3. Walstadt may claim "sovereign status" only when participating in its unique relationship with the Empire of Minarboria, but Walstadt remains under the sovereign control of this Bovic Government.
• 4. The Lord of Walstadt may, on behalf of Walstadt, conduct foreign affairs solely with the Empire of Minarboria in regards to Sangun and South Cibola, in accordance with the stated conditions of Section Sixteen (Clause 1.5 and Sub-clause 1.5.1) of the Caprine Code.
  • 4.1 Walstadt may be represented by the Emperor of Minarboria only where the Emperor of the Natopians, in consultation with the Lord of Walstadt, consents to a specific policy within those stated conditions.
• 5. No legal limits may be placed on inward Tapferite migration to Walstadt. Incentive schemes may be authorised by the Imperial Chancellery to encourage this.
• 6. The right to conduct whaling operations from Walstadt is invested in the Saint Andre Trading Company (SATCo) as sole proprietor of the operation in perpetuity.

(Amended) (Amended) (As amended) (As amended) (As amended) (Amended)

Section Twenty-Two - The Imperial Bank of the Natopian Nation

• 1. The Imperial Bank of the Natopian Nation is represented on the Small Commonwealth Banking System as "NatopiaGov"
• 2. The Chancellor will serve as Governor of the Imperial Bank, have access to the NatopiaGov account, and assume ultimate responsibility for the integrity of the Bank.
  • 2.1 The Chancellor, as Governor of the Bank, may appoint a Minister of the Exchequer to oversee day-to-day administration and to oversee the growth of the economy of the Empire.
  • 2.2 The Minister of the Exchequer may be given access to the NatopiaGov account, subject to the authorisation of the Frenzy.
• 3. Personal and corporate accounts, and all sums of currency within them, are the private properties of their respective owners.
• 4. Taxes may only be enacted by the Frenzy and will be enforced by the Governor of the Bank or Minister of the Exchequer.
• 5. When a personal or corporate account has remained dormant for 12 Natopian years (1 Gregorian year) that account will be considered inactive and all currency will be returned to the Imperial Bank.
  • 5.1 Owners of inactive accounts may petition the Imperial Bank for reimbursement. Reimbursements will be decided at the discretion of the Governor of the Bank or the Minister of the Exchequer based on a citizen's current activity, length of citizenship, and intent to put the money to use.

(Enacted)

Section Twenty-Three - The Concordat of Þårvik

• 1. The Frenzy, having so ratified, is bound to the laws and provisions of the Concordat of Þårvik.

Section Twenty-Four - Supreme Court of the Land

• 1. The judicial powers of Natopia are vested in the Supreme Court of the Natopian Nation (the Supreme Court) and in such inferior courts that are established by demesnial law.
• 2. The Supreme Court comprises a Chief Justice and two Associate Justices (the Members).
  • 2.1. The Members of the Supreme Court are appointed for life;
  • 2.2. Candidates are proposed by the Emperor and confirmed by the Frenzy;
  • 2.3. An appointee becomes a Member after swearing an Oath;
    • 2.3.1. The wording of the Oath shall be determined from time-to-time by the Emperor.
• 3. Membership of the Supreme Court shall only cease on occasion of one of the following:
  • 3.1. a written resignation delivered to the Emperor;
  • 3.2. the death of a Member;
  • 3.3. a vote of the Frenzy that receives a majority of two thirds and a confirmation by the Emperor.
• 4. The jurisdiction of the Supreme Court is limitless provided that at least one Party to a case is associated with the Empire.
• 5. A decision made by the Supreme Court:
  • 5.1. is taken with a simple majority of the Members of the Supreme Court;
  • 5.2. is final and cannot be challenged or overruled unless so decided by the Supreme Court itself;
  • 5.3. takes immediate effect and requires immediate implementation, unless otherwise specified.
• 6. The Supreme Court defines its own procedures and practices.

(Enacted) (Amended)

Section Twenty-Five - The Diet of the Clear Sea (Repealed)

(Enacted) (Amended) (Repealed)

Section Twenty-Six - Elijah's Rest

• 1. The demesnal government of Elijah's Rest is forever vested in the Holy Order of the Cult of Elijah.
• 2. Any change to the government or demesnal status of Elijah's Rest must meet the consent of the Pentheros.

(As added)

Section Twenty-Seven - Imperial Natopian Constabulary

• 1. Policing within the borders of the Empire of Natopia shall be the responsibibilty of the the police service to be known as the Imperial Natopian Constabulary.
• 2. The duties of the Imperial Natopian Constabulary include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • 2.1. The prevention of crime and other disturbances of public order or safety;
  • 2.2. The maintainance of public order and safety, prevent disturbances of the same and take action when such disturbances occur;
  • 2.3. The conduct of investigations and surveillance in connection with indictable offences;
  • 2.4. The provision of protection, information and other kinds of assistance, whenever such assistance is best given by the Imperial Natopian Constabulary; and
  • 2.5. The performance of such duties as are incumbent on the police pursuant to special regulations laid down by the Caprine Code or any other law of the Frenzy or Decree of the Emperor.
• 3. The Imperial Natopian Constabulary shall be equipped, paid, armed and elsewise provided for by the Imperial Chancellery.
• 4. The Imperial Natopian Constabulary must, at all times and without exception, co-operate with the Supreme Court of the Land, any public prosecution authorities as well as with other authorities and organisations whose activities concern the work of the police. Other authorities shall support the police in their work.
• 5. It shall be incumbent upon every police officer to:
  • 5.1. respect the rights of all persons;
  • 5.2. maintain the integrity of the law, law enforcement and the administration of justice;
  • 5.3. perform his or her duties promptly, impartially and diligently, in accordance with the law and without abusing his or her authority;
  • 5.4. avoid any actual, apparent or potential conflict of interests;
  • 5.5. ensure that any improper or unlawful conduct of any police officer is not concealed or permitted to continue;
  • 5.6. be incorruptible, never accepting or seeking special privilege in the performance of his or her duties or otherwise placing himself or herself under any obligation that may prejudice the proper performance of his or her duties;
  • 5.7. act at all times in a courteous, respectful and honourable manner; and
  • 5.8. maintain the honour of the police and its principles and purposes.
• 6. The Imperial Natopian Constabulary will establish a Watch Brigade in each Demesne and Subdemesne of the Empire of Natopia.
  • 6.1. A Watch Brigade comprises a force of not less than 5,500 police officers under the command of a Legate.
• 7. The Imperial Natopian Constabulary shall be headed by the Director-General who shall be appointed by the Minister of Justice.

(As added) (Amended)