Here is a basic ranking system I have suggested. Keep in mind these are just my opinions, not necesarily what WILL be implimented, and that the names of the ranks are irrelevant - the main point is what each rank is meant to do.
> The Military
Novice - Let's change this rank from the rank of the general member of the zenko to something temporary. Novices should be those who are new to the zenko and have not entirely learned the ropes yet. Calling the general soldiery novices sounds a little disheartening to me, and will make those who don't want to be officers feel like they're not getting very far. No signatures required - If you volunteer, and whatever designated rank to approving new recruits says "Sure, you're not a mass murderer," then they're a novice. No tests yet.
Cadet - This is just a suggestion for the title name, what i'm after is the structure here. This rank should be given to any 'novice' who has proven through a single officer's test (If we do multiple officers, it makes it take that much longer for anyone to join, and roleplay is naturally delayed enough as it is.), or through regular duty, that they are fully capable soldiers.
Captain - Like what I understand the lieutenant rank was - Simply a soldier who has proven that they can perform as a leader and is given a squad to take care of. Again, name is not important, but i'll be honest in saying I think there's only two further officer ranks required.
Colonel - Right below Lord Zenko, the colonels, or the relevant rank, will oversee the captains and relay orders directly to them from lord zenko - Why no more officers? Well, to be honest with you, creating more ranks creates a problem with numbers. You could make 5 more ranks and it'd sure look organized, but there will be very few people in each rank, at some point you might as well just replace ranks with personal titles.
Lord Zenko - Fine as-is, and very self explainatory.
> The school
I think there should be two seperate ranks for the school and the military proper, that should both be overseen by lord zenko ultimately. The school's "ranks" should be self explainatory. I don't think a rank for students should be included, since the zenko school should be open admission.
Researcher/Scientist - Those who devote much of their time to a specific set of subjects. Simple!
Instructor- Anyone who instructs students!
Headmaster - Directly under lord zenko, oversees the coordination of research and makes sure nothing illegal is taking place.
So, with what i've suggested - does anyone have suggestions for changes? Comments? Systems of their own to discuss? Let us focus specifically on the ranking system with this thread.