Knights Eagle

The Knights Eagle is the highest secular order of knights within the Stahlheimian Empire, composed of men of the highest caliber who will show no fear in battle and sooner die than disgrace their vows. Selection to join the order is considered one of the highest honors possible for a knight, second perhaps only to induction into the Kaisergarde. Members of the Knights Eagle are allowed no occupation other than soldiery, serving in the Imperial Army from their induction to their death. They forsake all prior vows to their lieges upon induction, taking an oath that commits them to service for life and demanding that they serve the Empire, and only the Empire. The wording of this vow is unusual, as it is one of the only oaths in the nation that does not require an oath of loyalty to be sworn to the Emperor himself.

In battle, the Knights Eagle ride upon finely armored destriers and strike in unison with heavy lances. They are experts in both single combat and small group tactics, operating individually or as a unit as the battle requires. Their presence is seen as either sign of a desperate cause or a battle of great importance. They are best identified by the shields they carry in battle, bearing the likeness of the Stahlheimian double-headed eagle with a sword in one talon and a pennant in the other.