Paladin

Paladins are the embodiment of righteousness, standing at the forefront of the battle against chaos and evil in the world. Clad in armor reflecting the light of their convictions, these holy warriors combine martial prowess with divine magic to strengthen their arms and fortify the hearts of their allies. Whether sworn before a god’s altar or the might of an inner code, paladins commit to the highest standards of chivalry and sacrifice. A paladin’s power comes as much from a disciplined will as from a heart brave and true. Their quest is not just to defeat foes but to spread the light of their faith and the protection it affords.
Adventures: Paladins venture into the world to confront the spreading shadow of evil and to uphold the tenets of their faith. Their journeys are as much about inspiring others as they are about combating specific threats. Whether leading a crusade against a gathering undead army or delving into dungeons to purge demonic influence, paladins see their adventures as a chance to prove their faith through action and to bring hope where there is despair.
Characteristics: The paladin is a beacon on the battlefield, capable of healing the wounded, inspiring the faltering, and striking down the wicked. Their divine magic, granted through devotion, offers protection and succor to their allies while bringing wrath upon their foes. Beyond combat, they are driven by an unwavering moral compass, often making them leaders by example. Their strength is bolstered by their holy vows, making them not just fighters but champions of their beliefs.
Alignment: Paladins are often lawful good, their codes of conduct aligning with the ideals of justice, honesty, and honor. However, there are paladins of all alignments, each interpreting their sacred oaths through the lens of their moral and ethical perspectives, sometimes focusing on mercy, at other times on retribution.
Religion: Paladins often serve specific deities associated with good, law, war, or protection but may also be devoted to ideals embodying these concepts. They perform religious rites, are versed in holy texts, and are often seen as the arm of their church or faith, embodying its will in action.
Background: Many paladins come from a background of service, whether in a temple, a royal court, or a military order. They might have been chosen by divine omens or have taken up the mantle after a profound personal revelation or rescue. The path of the paladin is as much a calling as a choice, often entered into through a transformative pledge made in a moment of need or spiritual awakening.
Races: Humans, Dwarves, and Elves are the most common paladins, each race contributing to the paladin’s mission with its unique strengths. Human paladins are numerous, their diverse beliefs and adaptability making them natural leaders. Dwarves bring stoicism and resilience, often venerating deities of fortress and forge. Elves contribute a grace and fervor tied to their ancient traditions and deep-seated love for the natural world.
Other Classes: Paladins work well with most other classes but particularly value the company of Clerics, Monks, and Fighters who share their commitment to discipline and order. They might find common cause with Barbarians in battle, though the paladin’s strict code often clashes with the Barbarian's wild nature.
Roles: In an adventuring party, a paladin often assumes the role of tank and support, capable of absorbing damage and healing allies. They also serve as moral compasses, often guiding the group’s decisions with a focus on righteousness and ethical conduct. Their divine abilities allow them to face supernatural threats head-on, making them indispensable in battles against fiends, undead, and other evil entities.

Type

Religious

Famous in the Field

• Isendur

Other Associated professions

• Cleric
• Fighter

Used By

• Brethren Court
• Holy Flame
• The Stone

Personal Characteristics

Personality Traits

• Righteous: "I carry a strong sense of righteousness in all my actions, striving always to do what is just and good."
• Protective: "I am protective of those around me, always ready to shield the weak and defenseless from harm."
• Steadfast: "Once I have made a commitment, nothing can sway me from my path. I am steadfast in my beliefs and my missions."

Ideals

• Justice: "I am driven by the ideal of justice. I seek to see the law upheld and wrongdoers brought to account for their actions."
• Mercy: "I believe in showing mercy to my foes, offering them a chance for redemption if they seek it."
• Courage: "True courage means standing up against evil even when the odds are against you. I aspire to live courageously in all aspects of my life."

Bonds

• Holy Quest: "I am bound by a holy quest bestowed upon me by my church or a divine vision, which guides all my actions and decisions."
• Fellowship: "My bond with my fellow knights or comrades-in-arms is unbreakable. Together, we stand against the darkness."
• Sacred Relic: "I am the keeper of a sacred relic of my faith. Its protection and proper use are my solemn duties."

Flaws

• Zealous: "My zeal can sometimes blind me to the finer points of morality. I can be uncompromising in my views, which can lead to conflict."
• Naive Optimism: "I sometimes see the world in black and white, expecting others to uphold the same moral and ethical codes I do, which can make me naive."
• Burden of Responsibility: "The weight of my duties can sometimes be overwhelming, leading me to doubt my abilities and the path I have chosen."