World Of Terra
The Knight Order
Brief Faction History
If you haven't guessed by now, the Faction you're looking at is the forces that keep kingdoms protected, without them, a kingdom stands to lose everything. Unless of course, a kingdom is too posh for a Knight Order like the Seeker's Coven, who uses their own Seekers as a source of military. This Faction would have never existed without the brains of the God Ares though. He seeked to build a perfect army who would protect his kingdom WhiteStone, and would ultimately play a part in the destruction of Terra when the war between the Gods was coming.. There is shame in this faction, even though you wouldn't know it with the many egos that exist in Knights here, but those who know the history and the darkness this faction, there is a shame that is trying to be forgotten about as each new leader of the order may try to put it a few steps ahead in the right direction, but others, can take the order 10 steps backwards, and it has happened. Knights have been known to be loyal dogs, doing whatever they're told when they're told no question, Kings and Queens ultimately decide what the order does and does not do, even a Battlemaster or Commander cannot stop it, the order can fall into the wrong hands, and has many times..
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The Knight Order wasn't always made up of the Divine Faction like WhiteStone's Order is, in fact Commoners, and anyone of any faction, even Mages! Could come aboard and serve under their King or Queen, any horse from any faction if they had a desire and heart to serve, they served. That all changed when Ares and the corruption within him began.. Loyal Mages, Commoners, even some Seekers, were turned against and if they had Magic, were hunted down and slaughtered. Seeker and Knight had served together peacefully for 500 years until Polos pulled any Seeker out of the Order and they were strictly to serve defending the Coven, Seeker and Knight would never work side by side as they did again, the Seekers separated from the Order that day.. Mages even amongst the highest ranks, fled for their lives and high tailed it back to the Circle if they could make it, Polos had open arms for those fleeing the Order. The order heavily corrupted now, could take up a new specialty under Mage Hunter, exterminating those with Magic, and those under the suspicion of using Magic. Nations around began to hate the Order for what it was becoming, how could they justify their actions, be proud of what they do.. And then the war hit. Ares plan all along was to get as many numbers as possible to have a better chance against anyone who refused to follow him on his march for complete domination. The war was scaring for many, many valiant Knights fled during the war seeing how wrong this all really was, those that fled, and those that fought and survived during the catastrophe were left with horrors they would take to their graves. With the world in shambles, fear, disease, remaining Knights who abandoned the ideology of Ares offered their aid to surrounding kingdoms to try and rebuild, to forget and start new. The order was disbanded after the war.
It wasn't until Mia Ti had made her emergence into the world, to restore peace and balance to Terra like it had once been before, sort of, would the Order band together again, serving Mia Ti. Those with the mindset of Ares plans however, were no longer welcomed and would answer for their crimes, they would only cause chaos and harm, she did this to please other kingdoms to try and bring amends for the orders crimes and believed this would start anew with each surrounding kingdom. She outlawed the practices of Mage Hunting and more. And it worked! For a little while.. Until she gave birth to Thomasteus. The longer he grew the more the hatred brewed.. When he had enough forces on his side being able to corrupt many good knights within the order, and find those who had been in hiding believing in the world Ares sought to build, he planned his moves to overthrow Mia Ti, and his brother Moritemius would serve as his right hand along with his newly established army, and had his own order for himself. Mia Ti was having none of this. Those who wanted to follow him, were banished along with him. This only created a sleeping giant because it birthed the Adameic now that Adam had his own land to rule, his own forces, and all that was left was to be able to corrupt an equine for good who wanted to follow the new world he saw in his mind by drinking his elixir. Mia Ti was murdered by her own son and those that served faithfully under her and loyal to WhiteStone who refused to join him, were executed if they didn't already run, and Mage Hunting was restored, creating a frenzy. With Mia Ti dead, Moritemius saw this as a perfect opportunity to get what he had always wanted, to be a King. He betrayed Adam unbeknownst to him swearing if he ruled WhiteStone it was just one more kingdom ruled under Adam and took over WhiteStone, the perfect opportunity. Though that wasn't the case.
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Today the Order is divided between Adameic, and Celestial species, they either serve WhiteStone or they serve Viredda by King Moritemius, or Adam. There is mixed feelings about the order, many believe the orders force is being abused and only out for their gain instead of protecting those in the kingdom and surrounding allies like they're supposed to. Will corruption always exist in this faction?
Order Ranks
Basic ranks are for players who are just starting their way into the group and want to test the waters. If you don't plan on being fairly active within the group we suggest that you stay in the basic ranks as the higher the rank your are, the more you're going to have influence over certain things and if you feel you might not be around a lot, staying in the basic ranks is for you!
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Squire
Squire's are fresh meat to the Order, they've been accepted to join, have a great pedigree, only question is, can your character hack it? Members are allowed to apply to the Order when their character is as young as 14 years of age, when they reach 18 they will be eligible to become a Companion. Squire and Companion is among the most tedious, and ridiculous of the ranks because another Knight, or Officer is governing over you. You could be cleaning their armor, or you could be doing the most absurd tasks, whatever their demands, you must comply.
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Companion
Your character will be eligible to become a Companion when their mentor recommends them for promotion, and they're 18 years of age. Companions still perform the same tasks they did when they were Squire's however, their mentor may start taking it easier on them as they know the standards and what's expected of them.
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Sergeant
Welcome to probation, Sergeant. Sergeants will dawn their first cape, a black cape with a red WhiteStone crest. Your character will spend a probation period of 3 months getting used to the ropes and more responsibility towards being promoted to a Knight or Dame. As a Sergeant you'll oversee that Squire's and Companion's are doing what they need to be doing and being where they need to be. Your character may even get to go on a mission if they're selected to!
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Knight / Dame
Rise, newly Knighted or Damed, for you are on the path of greatness. You've passed all the requirements,woken up early for those ridiculous training sessions, endured harsh criticism, and your sanity tested to the brink, but you prevailed and made it! You may now dawn your red cape and wear the crest of WhiteStone proudly. Your duty is to protect and serve WhiteStone with your life and keep your King safe at all costs. During your service, you may handle a handful of Squire's, conduct training sessions, even earn a battle scar or two. Will you stay a Knight for the rest of your time in the Order? Or will you seek to obtain higher rank?
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Congratulations! You're on your way to becoming an officer! That's a huge responsibility! Please consider only applying to become an officer if you plan to become a regularly active player in the group, officers participate in a lot of RP's where they're needed, have influence over chapters if the Order is heavily involved, as well as directions they'd like to take the Order, under permission from their King of course.
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Knight Lieutenant
A Knight Lieutenant is fresh in the officer ranks, Lieutenants give orders to their Knights that have come from higher up such as from the Battle Master, or the Commander, if your Knights mess up, it's your rep on the line. Lieutenants organize who goes on patrols, who guards, handle reports from scouts, and supervise the training grounds. They work closely with their Commander and Battle Master, but they're not trusted enough to command anyone yet, but will fill in on the rare occasion anyone else is not there.
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Knight Commander
Impressive, Commander. You're one step away from becoming a Battle Master! Commanders have a great deal of stress and responsibility on their hands as they are now given their own platoon ( a small platoon of seven or eight to command ) tight relationships will be formed as you and this platoon will go through much together such as battles, patrols, missions, even personal life you may confide in your men. You are being trusted that your quick decisions was the right decision and that you'll bring your men home. Commanders have some say in chapters that may involve the use of the Order.
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BattleMaster ( WhiteStone rank only )
BattleMaster's have nothing to prove, they've seen all, they've done all, and lead giant armies up to hundreds of horses when their nation is at war. Gods forbid you have to take your men to war but what you choose to do against the enemy will determine the outcome of your troops, will they perish in great numbers? Or will your expertise bring a great victory to your kingdom? BattleMaster's are known to have a streak of crazy in them, whether that's just part of their personality or because they've seen too much we're not sure.. When they're not leading hundreds into war the smallest amount they may handle is an entire platoon of thirty to sixty. BattleMasters are not like the Commanders, they're only actively involved with their men when they're in war, otherwise they let it fall to the Commander to make sure everything is going smoothly. BattleMasters have heavily involvement that can alter outcomes of chapters that involve the use of the Order.
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Elite High Guard ( Viredda Rank Only)
Elite High Guard is where every Adameic in servitude dreams of being. These stallions or mares are usually hand picked from birth by Adam and watched very very closely throughout their lives by Adam, and by others to make sure they are most worthy of serving him personally. The High Guard constantly protects Adam in his palace, or wherever he may go. They will do whatever he demands of them and never question it, they're the definition of brainwashed. As little as six or as much as twelve may be in this guard. If numbers are low chances are Adam has beheaded them for no reason.
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Honorable ranks are very difficult to obtain, 9/10 your character has become deceased through a valiant battle, but that 1/10 chance they've obtained an honorable rank by going above and beyond in the battle field. These ranks usually come with a retirement however, as going above and beyond in the battlefield usually means your character has lost an appendage in the fight. They truly understand the Creed they oathed to, and are a constant display of it.
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Grand Knight
Paladin
Basic Ranks
Officer Ranks
Honorable Ranks
Specialities
Archer
Archers have an impeccable shot, hardly ever missing! They are masters in long ranged combat. They can avoid enemies that attempt to flank, they can use multiple long ranged weapons and even use poisonous and explosive arrows on the battleground.
Bonuses:
- Early access to shop for poisonous elixirs for arrows only ( ONLY TO THIS CHARACTER )
- Hawk eyesight
+1 Tactical skill
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Mage Hunter
Being a Mage Hunter is a very dangerous task while being in the Order. Hunters conceal their identities with masks so families and friends of those they hunt will most likely never be able to seek them out.
Bonuses:
- Armor is crafted to be effective against Mage's Magic & enchantments & potions
- Advanced knowledge of Mage's Magic, Understand the limits of magic, how long it can last, understanding its strengths will lead to uncovering its weaknesses
-Heightened senses for quick reaction
- Can easily fool Mages with Death Sense ability
+1 Tactical skill
Duelist
They're fast, chaotic, and possibly mad, they wade into the fight and dare enemies to face the storm. Duelists are trained to be versatile in sword, bow and arrow, daggers, and other weaponry they're a master of all the trades, and a force to be reckoned with. In the eyes of others, Duelists are often unpredictable as fast as they can move making them a nerve wracking foe to face, meanwhile while they've already calculated out a handful of your next moves because of how fast and easy they can learn their enemies.
Bonuses:
+1 Tactical skill
- Heightened senses for quick reaction
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Scout
Scouts keep their fellow Knights safe by constantly being one step ahead of their fellow comrades, and one step ahead of the enemy by lurking in high places and shadows. Any Knight can kill, but the Scout makes it look like a pure art form. They specialize in quick, precise, deadly kills that let them slide back into the shadows undetected. Scouts are excellent with the daggers, bow and arrows, bombs, and traps.
Bonuses:
+1 Intelligence skill
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Shield
Shields are specialized in survivability, and can take as well as deliver heavy blows of damage in battle. Shields are the first Knights the enemy sees coming. Because of their brute strength, enemies are often focusing on them making Shield's a target to attract large numbers of enemies, this specialty is risky but for the one's who live for a fight and have the strength, it has its rewards. You'll have plenty of tales to account for all your scars.
Bonuses:
+1 Health skill
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Berserker
As the battle gets bloodier, these vicious and deadly warriors get even more brutal. Hurting them just makes them mad, a mistake most enemies don't live to repeat. These guys tend to be the ones to wear little to no armor, or going all out to show off their strength. Berserkers are the rather high strung and easily angered characters, and fly into a fitting rage on the battlefield increasing the damage they inflict on others.
Bonuses:
+1 Strength skill
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Gladiator
Knights Code
Courage of the Heart
As a Knight I will attempt to never lay down my arms, even when the foe is merciless, but I will also know when to surrender.
Faith
As a Knight I must see into my heart, and know to sometimes take a leap of faith, I am never alone in my travels for the God Ares is always with me.
Mercy
As a Knight I will always show mercy, even to those in battle. I will give mercy unto him if he ask for it. I will feel the pain of others, and show kindness toward equine or creature, for I have to live at the mercy of pain.
Nobility
I will never commit a crime against my Nation or King. I will not unjustly murder or assault another . I will at all times uphold high morals and principles of myself.
Humility
I will admit humiliation, but also be humbled by it and be respectful to humiliator.​
Generosity
As a Knight I will give in any manner without expecting in return, and will lend my wisdom onto others.
Hope
When I cannot see in the dark, my heart will guide me, and it is with my heart do I silently walk through this darkness.
Justice
As a Knight I know to falter is to be human, I will extend my graces to strengthen the weak. I will be fair, and to not judge others. I will aid in a fair and just kingdom. I will not take up battle in wrongful quarrels for love, or materialism, I will only draw my weapon for the good of my Kingdom.
Loyalty
I will always be loyal to myself, and to my fellow Knights, I will never turn against my brethren.
Customs & Traditions
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Bowing of Head or Knee (Custom)- When the family in rule is presented or when they first enter a room it is a custom that a Knight bows his head or takes a knee as a sign of respect.
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WhiteStone Tournament ( Tradition )- Every year the WhiteStone kingdom holds a tournament where every Seeker and Knight in the realm of Terra is invited. Adameic included, This is a single-elimination tournament where contestants will face each other in single duel to determine a new Champion.
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Challenging ( Tradition )- When a Knight wants to challenge another he throws the crest of his kingdom on the ground and the Knight who wants to accept the challenge picks it up. When a knight wants to challenge a specific knight, he throws his crest in front of him. It is an unwritten code that a knight pick up the crest when he is challenged and to never withdraw once the challenge is taken, or he will lose his honour and be named a coward.A challenge is usually a fight to the death, unless otherwise stated but 99.9% of the time it's to the death.
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Gladiator Fights ( Tradition )-
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Decennial Tournament ( Tradition ) - The rules are ? Well there are no rules , no weapons are banned, foul play encouraged ! The Decennial tournament is a tournament held every 10 years in WhiteStone and Viredda, and it's to the death, are you brave enough to enter ? This tournament is open to all comers, both high and low born. It's a dangerous undertaking but for the prize of a 100 Perri pieces many are willing to risk life and limb.
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Knighting Ceremony (Custom)- Becoming a Knight / Dame is a high honor and one that must be recognized by the King/Queen themselves! Members of the kingdom, and any council will gather in the throne room to witness such honor and the one to be will present themselves before their King/Queen, they will take a knee, swear the Knight's Code and will be knighted granting them official passage as a Knight of the realm for the rest of their lives.
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Marriages (Custom)- To be allowed to marry, one must have the rank of a Knight/Dame and be at least 21 years or older. Marriages must be approved by the King or Queen and can deny any marriage they don't see beneficial if they wish. Once approved a wedding may be held the very same day if wished. Same sex marriages will be denied in both WhiteStone and Viredda. There are no exceptions.
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Hand Picking (Custom for Viredda only)- Not just anyone can join Adam's personal King's Guard, very rarely there is a warrior in the mix of his fellow knights that will be able to grab the attention of Adam and he will personally select them to serve in his guard personally protecting him at all times.
Laws Of The Order
i. Do not speak ill of your King or Queen, you will serve them without question and their word and rules are your law.
ii. You will obey your BattleMaster, or Knight Commander, or the rank before him. You will respect the rank structure, refusal to follow orders is insubordination and will be punishable as seen fit.
iii. No Knight will lay with those of the same sex, such delinquency can be punishable by death.
iv. One will not conceive children outside of marriage, if such a thing should happen, no contact will be permitted with the child, and they will not be allowed to have royal claim to knighthood, or even a Divine title, the child should be considered dead.
v. A Knight may not cast personal punishment against those they are to capture and bring to the King/Queen if they were told to bring them to them. They will be tried in court and punished.
vi. Honesty is a must, a Knight must never lie to his King/Queen, or to his fellow comrades. They must speak pure honesty.
vii. Assault, rape, and murder is forbidden and will be met with appropriate consequences.
viii. Conspiracing with enemy forces and allies is punishable by death.
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Consequences Of Insubordination
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Demotions in rank / Warnings :
Demotion in rank and warnings are the most common punishment for laws broken, especially if it is a higher ranking member in question. But that doesn't mean someone should think they can break a rule every time and get a slap on the wrist with no consequences other than a warning coming their way, demotions have happened before, and they will happen again even to an equine with years and years of valiant service and an impressive service record is not safe from a demotion if they're being tried.
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Exilement:
Being banished to exile for the remainder of one's life is one punishment that can be given for laws broken. Exilement is considered mercy by many as the other option would have most likely been death. Once exilement has been casted upon the accused, it cannot be argued against and is final. Newly exiled must flee their kingdom if told, the continent in severe cases. Returning if exiled is punishable by death.
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Imprisonment:
Imprisonment is not a common punishment as POW's are usually filling the cells in the dungeons and those who are the worst to society. This is not a common punishment but can still be sentenced to those accused. Sentences can be anywhere from a few days, to years, to life.
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Execution:
In the most vile cases against the accused execution is almost always the punishment. Execution are used in cases of laying with the same sex, those not of royal blood impersonating a divine trying to serve in the Order, rape, murder, you understand what we're picking at right? The most diabolical... Who should never be allowed back out into society.
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Trial By Combat:
Trial By Combat is a right given to the accused to settle accusations in the absence of witnesses or a confession in which two parties in dispute fought in single combat; the winner of the fight is proclaimed to be right. The accused may fight themselves, or they may choose a stand in for them if it's agreed with who is selected. If won, all charges and accusations will be dropped immediately and the accused will walk free.
Cultural Notes
Education
Etiquette
Death and burial
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