Auditors

Imperial Auditors

Name:	Imperial Auditors
Headquarters:	None
Head/Owner:	The Emperor

Details

The Imperial Auditors are Barrayar's answer to "who watches the watchers?". They all speak with the Emperor's Voice and hence have almost unlimited authority.

Auditors can be identified by the gold key and chain which they wear. The key acts not only as symbol of office, but also contains sophisticated electronics which allow the barer unrestricted access to all comm-consoles, buildings etc. in the Empire.

Traditionally there are eight Auditors, with the ninth Auditor place reserved for use by temporary appointees. All Auditors are co-equal and while there is no hierarchy amongst the Auditors, the newer Auditors do tend to get the less-pleasant assignments.

Auditors are appointed by the Emperor and must be confirmed by the Council of Counts. The appointment is for life and can only be ended by resignation, retirement, a two-thirds majority vote of the Councils of Counts and Ministers in joint session, by Imperial Command or by death.

The exception to the above are the aforementioned temporary appointees, or ninth Auditors. These are appointed for specific cases and their appointment ends with the completion of that case. Their authority is not quite as extensive as a true Auditor's, as it is restricted to their case.

Obstructing an Auditor is treason.

Impersonating an Auditor, or counterfeiting his credentials are punishable by death.