Paladins of the Crown
The Paladins of the Crown, also known as the Sentinels of the Stone Tower, are an order of knights sworn to protect the Stalic Empire. Members of this order are made up of the heirs of the Council of Elector Princes, with the most highly-regarded families able to trace membership back to the times of the Emperor. Whether the original Paladins swore their oath out of real devotion or whether they were the hostages of Ivar Stal, held to ensure compliance among the Princes, is debated among historians.
These days, membership is primarily ceremonial and seen as a rite of passage for up-and-coming princes to go through, though some families of particular nobility still call on their youth for actual service. While all heirs are considered members of this order, most don’t take their vows seriously and are paladins in title only.
New paladins take oaths when the previous holder of the title passes on their mantle--usually when an heir comes of age at twenty-one. A completely new member may only join if a new principality is added to the empire, but because most lands are added to the holdings of current princes, the number of paladins in this order has typically remained static or decreased since its founding.
The name Sentinels of the Stone Tower refers to the tower in Ivargrad where the paladins go to swear their oath, and beneath which lies their tomb. This name is used mostly by people who are not actually members of the order, who find it strange to refer to a "crown" that is no longer worn by an emperor.
Oaths
The upholder of this covenant swears the following oaths: I shall be the servant of the Emperor:
In his name I shall obey and show deference to those in authority.
I shall keep their laws and administer their penalties.
I shall champion the flag, the word, and the heart of the Empire.
I shall never forsake the Emperor, nor any subject under his rule, nor any person under his protection. I shall be the pillar of the Emperor:
In his name I shall pursue justice, stand against evil, defend the innocent and avenge the wronged.
I shall do what is necessary and right without bribe or threat.
I shall lead others by my example and inspire them by my virtue.
I shall never refuse a challenge in which the esteem of the Empire is at stake. I shall be the sword of the Emperor:
In his name I shall contest those who stand against his rule.
I shall fight with integrity.
I shall win—and lose—with grace.
I shall never take up arms against one who has surrendered or who pleads for clemency. I shall be the shield of the Emperor:
In his name I shall protect the weak and defenseless.
I shall defend the honor of those who have not the means to do so themselves.
I shall exhibit generosity, kindness, courtesy, and attentiveness to women.
I shall never bring slander on the Crown through a deficiency of character. I shall be the voice of the Emperor:
In his name I shall keep my word, fulfill my obligations, and carry out my promises.
I shall speak the truth and refrain from deception.
I shall accept the consequences of my actions with dignity.
I shall never betray confidence, a comrade, or the Crown. I shall be the mirror of the Emperor:
In his name I shall exhibit courage in word and deed.
I shall persevere and finish the task at hand.
I shall remain true to whom I pledge my loyalty.
I shall never abandon a friend, an ally, or a noble cause. In the name of the Emperor I shall lay my life down in defense of any and all of the ideals so sworn above.
In the name of the Emperor I shall take life in pursuit of any and all of the ideals so sworn above.
By my own name written, I shall take on the mantle of Paladin of the Crown.
By my own name written, I shall live and die in service of the Empire.
Type
Military, Knightly Order
Training Level
Elite
Veterancy Level
Decorated/Honored
Notable Members