Code of Shadows

Even though the Tenets of Shadow do not follow the same tenets as the tenets of Knighthood, there is still the unspoken rules of traditional knighthood that must be followed. Even for those without honor, somehow agree to honor the basic codes.

A king or lord is expected to supply his warriors with all the necessities he can afford: spear, shield, armor, clothing and food.

When an enemy yields to a knight, the knight has the right to command him however he chooses on that day. Not even a king can take away this right. Commands to hurt or kill oneself may be ignored and can often release the yielded knight from this command. Commands to humiliate are acceptable but a silent, unspoken agreement to only do so to a certain degree usually is followed. One day the victor may have to yield to the same knight. Physically beating an enemy knight who has yielded is frowned upon in public but can be used as a heavy handed tactic in the wilds.

The possessions carried by a defeated enemy become the property of the victor.

When one knight challenges another let no one interfere.

The Nine Tenets of Shadow

Prowess: To seek excellence in everything expected of a knight, martial and otherwise. Using strength for the betterment of oneself and to advance beyond your enemy.

Justice: While the path of Justice is to always seek the path of ‘right', clear of personal interest. Justice of the sword can be a terribly useful thing. A Knights sword is the mettle of his soul and a blade is not strong unless it is tempered steal, so must Justice be tempered with the blood of the weak to make it strong and resilient.

Truth: Speak the truth when it helps further your cause. A lie is only wrong if it isn't believed.

Loyalty: Loyalty is just another word for being weak willed. Common cause binds alliances, but should not put one's own worth in jeopardy for the facade of loyalty.

Defense: You have sworn an oath to defend the cause of a liege. This does not extend to retainers or followers or hirelings. Seek always to defend your liege if possible, yet realize the option of replacing them is ever present.

Courage: The difference between courage and death is simple; being courageous is a failing of ones sensibilities and often leads to death. You can be fearsome to your opponent but realize that there may be someone better who does not have a moral code to ask you to yield.

Faith: Faith. Have faith in your actions, but hold no faith for others unless they are culled and in fear.

Humility: Speak of your achievements often as no one will know of them unless you tell them.

Nobility: Nobility is not always a station of birth or a title of blood, yet the actions and beliefs of the righteous. You are noble, being noble is to rise above the weak and show your strength. Strength in arms and power are what makes a man noble.

Login or Register to Award Mourngrymn XP if you enjoyed the submission!
XP
180
HoH
1
Hits
7,852
? Hall of Honour (1 voters / 1 votes)
Hall of Honour
Cheka Man
? Mourngrymn's Awards and Badges
Organizations Guild Apprentice Hall of Heros 10 Golden Creator Systems Guild Apprentice Society Guild Apprentice Locations Guild Apprentice Lifeforms Guild Journeyman Item Guild Apprentice Article Guild Apprentice Systems of the Year 2011