Knightly Vows

You must know that Knights live by their own rules and follow them through even if it kills them. For one to give a vow is that should never be taken lightly. - Old Soldier

History

Origins

Though the vows of a Knight are sacred, not all of these vows were created at the same time as Knight began to appear in Ardania and the rest of the Western Lands all at once, but instead came into being at different points of time, with the Vow of Service being the first one to be placed into the Chevalier's Codex as that was their purpose to be created in the first place to serve nobles in their armies. Later on, though, as they grew more significant in number, these Knights would make their vows as their status in society began to change. In doing this they showed people that they were more than just men who knew more than just fighting and waging war, they have values that they respected, unlike most soldiers. It also made Knights trustworthy and loyal to those they served under, as they were less likely to stab you in the back while you weren’t looking, causing more people to desire them than mercenaries if they could help it

Adding Additions

With time new vows would be added to the Chevalier’s Codex as they were considered worthy for a Knight to follow, though at times they were controversial they nonetheless remained a part of their way of life. With each one added, the more responsibility and influence Knight had on society caused changes around them. Many Knights throughout history caused events that would change the cause of history in many places by being praised or despised long after they are gone. It is not uncommon for a Knight to take multiple vows at a time if the need suits them either, as they can go off track from their primary goal. It can often be challenging if they commit to too many of them and do them one thing at a time.

Execution

The vows themselves are of several different types that Knights can take on to their service, each one having significant meaning to them. Knights keep all of these Vows until their task is complete or they are relieved of them.

Vow of Protection: A vow to dedicate a Knight to protect a person or a place from all harm. This means that the Knight must always stay in this place without leaving their side to fully protect them as long as possible, even to give their lives if they must ensure it.

I am the shield that shall hold back all that would bring harm to whatever I wish to keep safe; none shall pass me, for I will crush them all with all my might.

Vow of Service: It is a common practice for a Knight to swear allegiance to a person or group and do all that they tell them to do as long as it is within reason. This is often done with nobility and knightly orders, as Knights have more purpose within them.

I am but a servant to do as you command. All that you hold shall have my watchful gaze, and your enemies shall fall when they meet by my blade.

Vow of Justice: This is only declared when an unspeakable crime has been committed, and the Knight has a responsibility to see those responsible brought to justice. It is not to be taken lightly, as the Knight who declares it must complete it no matter how long or far it takes them.

A heinous act that cannot be overlooked has been committed. I will bring justice to those who have been wronged and punish those responsibly.

Vow of Sanctity: Many Knights are religious, as their code and faith are intertwined; the vow itself is often one of faith in general, as it involves doing a holy task, such as retrieving a sacred relic, being called upon a crusade, or defending an area from heathens and cultists.

The heavens call to seek my aid in a great task that requires my skill. I shall bring forth light into a world filled with darkness in their name.

Vow of Vengeance : This controversial vow often leads a Knight down a dark path. The vow clearly states that it can only be used if a Knight has been wronged or someone close to them has been slighted or killed.

An act has been committed that shall never be forgiven. Only through blood shall my heart be put at ease.

Vow of Tribulation: All Knights must take this vow if they are to be considered Knights at all at one point or another. A Knight must go on a quest or trial to prove his worth in any way possible, often committing good deeds, from saving the innocent to vanquishing a beast.

I am to be tested to prove my worth of my title. I must set out on a journey to show that I am more than my name.

Vow of Atonement : A vow used by Knights who dishonored themselves in some way, such as committing a heinous crime or breaking a code in the Chevalier’s Codex, that will shame them for the rest of their lives and their families until it is atoned for. This often causes the Knight to go on a journey of redemption to do whatever they need to do until their honor is restored.

Shame has filled my soul and will linger as long as I live. The path of redemption is the only way for me to regain my honor.

Vow of Obligation : A vow that is used out of charity rather than duty as a Knight must be willing to help others because they want to and not seeking a reward or fame. This is often used by Knights who are indebted in some way, such as having their life saved by someone who helps them in a task or adding the weak in their time of need.

Here I stand to do what is right with no reward nor glory. Just doing some good is all the payment I will need.

Components and tools

The Knight often always has their weapon out to declare a vow to show they are serious.

Participants

A Knight is always present when a vow is taken with a witness or witnesses involved, either from the person they are watching over to solidify it.

Observance

A vow can be taken anywhere in the world as long as the Knight conducts it accordingly.

Related Ethnicities

• Ardanian
• Vatian

Bound By Honor

by Jester%

I have given my vow, and I cannot forsake it, for to do so would stripe me of all that I stand for, leaving empty promises and shame so long as I draw breath. - Humble Knight

A vow of a Kinght is not easily dismissed or undone with one's hand; it is a binding oath of character and mortality. Once it is made, it can only be stopped should the vow be completed or the Knight in question die while completing it. The vow represents their standing as a Knight and their honor; losing one's honor will only lead to a life of shame and depravity. It is why so many continue their vows as long as necessary, with some continuing to honor for years until it is finally accomplished.

Conflicts of Morality

by Jester%

My vow may bind me, but it does not mean I will stoop to such despicable acts that would bring shame up my role as a Knight - Honorbound Knight

While the vow of a Knight is vital to maintain and achieve, it does not mean that they are willing to do anything to ensure success. The moral code of the Codex Chevalier teaches them to keep their morals and principles protected from corrupting influences that may come across in their life. Seeing that certain vows have been known to lead a Knight to do questionable things and end up in unpredictable situations makes it all the more reason to protect them. Should their vow lead to breaking one of their codes of conduct, then the Knight can commit a Dismissal of Duty, an act that will nullify a vow for a brief time or end it ultimately should it no longer be possible to uphold.