A Code of Conduct is a deeply held set of ideals and viewpoints that constantly inform and/or dictate the character’s actions. The code is not merely a letter-of-the-law adherence; the character has consciously evaluated, adopted, and integrated it. It frames their actions constantly in setting goals, ambitions, and associations. These provide a means of assessing whether their actions are in alignment with ethics – providing an opportunity for Rewards (by the GM and other mechanisms). A code usually consists of a guiding set of observances, tenets, and principles which enshrine the values and ideals of the code.
"But, it’s what my character would do!" - These types of character aspects are not an excuse to be disruptive to the point that it constantly endangers the safety of the group or the story continuity. Find creative ways to work through situations and do not manifest them to extreme levels of Behavior for your own amusement and to the detriment of the group.
Breaking a Code: Breaking the code has consequences in Disorienting Anxiety (guilt, self-doubt, shame) and requires some form of atonement. Codes of Conduct are only superficial and have no character consequences for breaking them unless they are a Sworn Word. Superficial Codes of Conduct may have social consequences involving a character, depending on how the code was being observed.
Impact > Negative (Cost: 1 Essence); To not act upon the ideals of the code is an act of defined Transgression and may require Atonement.