Paladin: Rank 1 (Paladin Of The Holy Church)

Written by Little Flower Productions

Composition

Manpower

Since this rank is not typically a combat unit, they rarely form in groups larger than six. However, throughout the empire, the Paladin rank has estimated ten-thousand members empire-wide who serve as guards to the Holy Church and The Circle of The Gods.

Equipment

Most all of the time, Paladins are chosen because of their ability as healers. This is not always magical. Especially, since the use of magic has recently been outlawed in the empire of Vulsria. Therefore, besides their armor, they are equipped with a full arsenal of medical supplies.

Weaponry

A Paladin is useless without his blade. Most often, the weapon of choice would be a longsword. But, on long marches, a paladin would also be equipped with a bow and full quiver of arrows for hunting and shooting enemies at a distance. In addition to a blade and bow, a Paladin might also have throwing axes and daggers for more close combat situations.

Vehicles

On foot or on Horseback. A Paladin would never be allowed ride inside of the priestess' caravan.

Training

Paladins must be trained in combat as well as religious studies. A great many of them, also, have degrees in medicine from the School Of Scholars.

Logistics

Upkeep

A Paladin, like a Knight, is not cheap. Being a rank of high prestige, Paladins earn a handsome salary. Which, overall, costs the crown billions annually. But, protecting the Church and the messengers sent by the gods as their holy envoy is worth any cost to crown and countrymen.
Basic weapons and armor are provided for all military ranks free of charge and can be procured from each paladin's local barracks. Special and legendary weapons and armor must be purchased at the paladin's own expense. Likewise, each paladin is responsible for purchasing his own horse, however, basic tack and food can be acquired from the barracks.
Lodging is available for all soldiers in the barracks. paladins of the church, forbidden to marry, reside in the church parsonage.
With meals, the average cost of upkeep for a Paladin 1 is between $25,000 and 38,000 C.

Recruitment

1. A paladin can be of any race but MUST be a legal Vulsrian citizen and male.
2. A paladin must be recommended by his superior to the Warlord who makes all final decisions.
3. Though not mandatory, it is preferred that candidates have some sort of medical training.
4. A paladin must be of superior athletic ability.
5. A paladin must be a highly skilled warrior.
6. A paladin must be faithful in his beliefs of the teachings of The Architect, The Lady, and The Holy Fourteen.

History

The High Priestesses and Priestesses, when tasked with making pilgrimages, were traditionally sent alone with only the accompaniment of a bishop, 2 acolytes, and an oracle. Military Paladins were optional as help if requested by the Church. However, they were strongly discouraged from interacting with their assigned priestess, due to the perceived purity of the priestesses and the strict rules of the Church with regard to acquaintance with them.
Many years later, after crimes were continuously committed against priestesses, often by the Bishops themselves, Emperor Lermesian instituted a mandatory rule that each priestess was to be assigned her own personal Paladin for escort, protection, and political advising.

Historical loyalties

Historically, one could choose the path of a Paladin after becoming a Knight. Paladins have always been loyal to the Crown, and through the Crown, the Holy Church. Those soldiers who come from more religious backgrounds, often join the military specifically to take on the rank of Paladin. As they feel it their duty to the gods to protect the churches and the relics they shelter.

Type

Special Forces

Founding

Hamary 1, 1555

Overall training Level

Professional

Assumed Veterancy

Experienced

Parent Formation

Vulsrian Imperial Order Of Knights

Used by

• The Church Of The Fourteen

Ranks & Titles

• Star Paladin