Vortigaunt
The Code of Honor
The Code is an amalgamation of good deeds, traditional religious practices, tribal cultural norms and diplomatic attitudes set in place by the defacto leaders of Vortigaunt society, the Elders, as a dogma of how all Vortigaunts should and should not act in face of the gruesome reality of the Great Peril at the hands of the Shu'ulathoi. This universally agreed upon dogma of the Elders bind us to a diplomatic approach to surviving in bondage as a means to an end.
1. Mankind
The natives of this world, Humans, suffer similarly to us, and hold great power over this place. They can make powerful allies, or
dreadful enemies. As such, it imperative to our diplomatic strategy to build a positive rapport with them.
- Never harm, menace, or otherwise take aggression against innocent unarmed Humans. - Refrain from openly making your aggression known to any Humans if it can be helped. - Help and nurture Humans if ever the situation presents itself. Guide them and protect them. - Conceal the motives of the Tribe except among Humans whos allegiance is firmly aligned with our cause. - Facilitate the organization of Humans sympathetic to the cause, unite them with their likeminded kin. - Humans are a tribal people, but lack unity. Build a rapport with their strongest and wisest leaders, to seal our alliance.
2. Honorable Conduct
As a proud and cultured people, we must always carry ourselves with dignity and honor. To survive in these Dark Times, we must
maintain our ancient customs and traditions among our shattered people. They are all that remains of our connection to the Homeland.
- Always do the will of the Elders. They are enlightened and influenced by the Vortessence, the source of all the Vortigaunt's power. It surroudns us, penetrates us, it binds the universe together, and through it, they are offered a glimpse into prophecy. - Respect the dens and dwellingplace of our kin. Never descecrate such places, or intrude where you are unwelcome. - It is customary to trade gifts between kin when entering their presence. - Shrines and Totems keep the land clean, and purge foul corruptions. Their builders are blessed. - Consecrate your livingspaces to drive off evil beings. - Always act in the best interest of your Kin.
(The Code serves as the guidelines for vortigaunt activity and underlies the Vortigaunt strategy to surviving and overcoming the Combine, and should almost never be broken. Failure to adhere to the Code's rules could result in your vortigaunt being exiled, and your whitelist potentially being revoked/suspended.)
NOTE: This is a living code, expect changes to be made based on conversation and updates to the game.