Clan Diamond Shark is a strong organization which prides itself on being based upon a strict Code of Honor.  To the true Shark, Honor is paramount and takes priority over everything.  Honor is the discipline that binds our democratic organization together and makes CDS the best group there is to associate with on the net.  Each and every member of CDS is a representative of the entire Clan, and therefore it is expected that they will conduct themselves appropriately when wearing the uniform.

You will show yourself to be honorable by your very actions, and, other than the specific examples set out below, a simple rule of thumb to follow would be to question yourself on all of your actions and think about how others will think of you and, more importantly, your Clan.  Our goal is to be looked upon as the most fair and the most honorable of all the Clans in any league.

Honorable Examples

The following are but a few examples of how to be honorable:

Never insult another Warrior or accuse them of anything unless you have undeniable proof .  Any accusations you may have should be brought before the CDS Diamond Keshik where the evidence can be presented.  The Keshik will decide on a further course of action if one is warranted.

If a Warrior from a different Clan insults you, or CDS, it is considered honorable to stand up to those insults and, if an apology is not forthcoming, to inform the Keshik of the details of the occurrence.  On their authorization, and only then, may you be permitted to engage in a Trial of Grievance against the offending Warrior.

Never insult another Shark, especially in a public forum.  If your Honor has been aggrieved then you may follow the procedures which will allow you to make a challenge for a Trial of Grievance.  Be very careful about this challenge as there can be grave consequences to the Trial.

Never complain about losing a battle.  Never say a Warrior beat you because of lag, missiles, etc.  He beat you because he was better than you, pure and simple!  Use the experience to learn to better yourself. Conversely, if you beat a Warrior, it is considered bad form to gloat. Be a gracious winner.

As there are any number of youngsters, parents and guests viewing our monitors at any given time, do not use excessive foul language in conversations with others.  This is just being polite and showing consideration for those you cannot see.  Remember, profanity is the effort of a weak mind to express itself forcibly.  It does not impress anyone.

Never fire on mechs not actively engaged in combat. Do not fire on respawned mechs that have yet to move. A real test of one's Honor comes during battle and the actions or words which follow.

Always be totally upfront and honest in all things. A lie of omission is still a lie.

Bloodnamed Warriors

Warriors holding Bloodnames are in possession of the highest badge of honor.  The Trial of BloodRight is a very involved and difficult trial to pass.  Treat these Warriors with respect and learn from them.  They will be happy to teach you what they can.

Command Hierarchy

It has been CDS' experience that an organizational structure based on Clan lore allows for clearly defined responsibilities, orderly participation in league activities, and easy distribution of information.  However, this is only true with the cooperation of members who respect the hierarchy of command.  All members are expected to follow the instructions of those of higher rank when participating in Clan activities.  Conversely, those in command positions have the responsibility of treating all members fairly and must always act for the benefit of the Clan as a whole.

Zellbrigen

Prior to the invasion of the Inner Sphere, Clan tactical doctrine revolved around the concept of Zellbrigen, or formal one-on-one dueling. The code of Zellbrigen lapsed during the invasion due to the Inner Sphere's lack of understanding of Clan ways, and has only found limited acceptance within the Inner Sphere.

A CDS Warrior may find themselves in a situation where Zellbrigen is called on the battlefield, but such a contest would be tactically disadvantageous for CDS. A Warrior who recognizes such a situation is authorized to decline a request for Zellbrigen, citing the precedent set by the infamous Clan Diamond Shark Khan Karen Nagasawa (then Clan Sea Fox Star Colonel Nagasawa) who said:

"We show our prey honor, yes, and we recognize the value of single combat. But does the sea fox blunt its teeth or forgo the use of its powerful tail because its prey cannot match its ferocity?"

Conclusion

Only in the path of honor can one be victorious and still hold one's head high with pride.  This is the path of the members of Clan Diamond Shark.  Those who would be of the Shark shall practice this Honor Code and in time the name "Clan Diamond Shark" will become synonymous with Honor.

 Sanctions for Breaching the Honor Code