It was best described as a serviceable building. Naturally there was marble, but in the Imperial City this barely raised an eyebrow and so the long, straight columns that flanked the entrance rarely passed the notice of those entering and leaving. Set close to the Imperial Post House near to the main gates, what lay inside was of more interest, perhaps, to those who lived and worked within the Imperial City – for despite its very ordinary appearance, this was the gateway for those who wished to serve in the Imperial Government as an Imperial Lictor. It may be strange to those who yearn for adventure, who dream of discovering new lands or combating evil in its many forms, that there exists those who prefer a life of employment as a civilian employee of the Imperial Government, but these jobs were fiercely contested and hard won. Tenacity, patience and an eye for opportunity were some of the qualities possessed by those who became Imperial Lictors. Discretion, diplomacy and decent handwriting were others. To list all would be futile though. It was enough to say that there was the requirement to pass many exams and tests in the determination of the competency of candidates, before a position was offered.
Unless of course, one employed a different way of attaining employment within the Imperial Government. But shush, for whispers of the right bribe to the right person to bypass such tests were surely just the product of jealous minds who see others overtake them on the route to recognition and power with seemingly little effort. It was true that some recent appointments made by Ministers appeared to pluck a citizen from obscurity without deference to the established system, but to talk of bribes, well that would imply unseemly conduct by those called to office.
And then there were other whispers that being related to the right person would certainly not harm one’s chances of obtaining a favoured position. But nepotism is something of an institution within government, as it is in all spheres of society, and many would argue that the Empire would not have risen to its current state if it had not been for the judicious appointment of relatives.
Whatever the case, Obadiah Thunk took his duties most seriously as Assistant Keeper of the Lists. A man of short stature, small eyes and jutting chin, he wore his green velvet cap with pride, the long tassle flicked to one side, as he raised an eyebrow at anyone enquiring about positions within the Imperial Government. He had systems to maintain, protocol to acknowledge and may the Gods help those who tried to see into his ledgers and notebooks without his permission. His desk was clear of all the paraphernalia associated with desks, save for a single ink pot and quill, although his drawers and cupboards were a different story.
Of course, the list that everyone wished to view was the List of Internal Positions for Imperial Lictors (LIPIL). This list detailed the jobs currently available within the Imperial Government and access was only gained by those who had passed the necessary tests to become an Imperial Lictor. That Obadiah Thunk would let those who were hoping to bypass such procedures for the price of a simple bribe was slanderous insult. Yet it was often remarked that Obadiah maintained a magnificient carriage drawn by excellent horses, and was very generous with aiding those who might need a loan. Some even spoke of estates held by Thunk in far-flung Provinces. But surely, one could not imagine this upright man to be tainted by corruption. After all, he was an Imperial Lictor and a servant of the Government.
OOC: How to use this thread:
PCs wishing to gain employment: It would be an impossible task to set up an actual list of internal vacancies due to the high number available. Therefore if a player gains access to the list, it should be assumed that its long and varied, with specified positions of note that are available in terms of gameplay being added to the list by PCs who want to employ more Imperial Lictors or by GM/GDs. The PC who employs you will then be responsible for setting you up in your job, if you gain the position.
To obtain access to the list, a self-modded post of the interaction with Obadiah Thunk is required with an offer of crowns for the bribe to see the list. There will then be one modded post which determines your success. If successful, you may then apply directly to whoever has advertised a job.
PCs wishing to employ someone: Please let me know by PM, or let a Moderator know, if you want to advertise a position, and it will be added to the list. Please include details such as a short outline of duties, whether temporary or permanent employment and salary.
The Imperial Collegio of Service and Duty
Linear Mode
