The Immaculate

The Immaculate are a knightly order in the Kingdom of Almeron that adhere to a code of values and chivalry far more strictly than any others, members going so far as to commit suicide should they disgrace their honor in combat or in conduct. They heighten chivalric values to a fault, and as such are seen quite controversially by the more progressive minds of Almeron. The Immaculate are virtuous and valiant, yes, but they are also haughty and look down upon those not among their ranks. Their vows prevent them from ever participating in any combat save for individual combat, and though they are expert, well-equipped fighters their myriad of rules prevents them from reaching their full potential in the field of battle.

Despite their flaws, many in Almeron and throughout Estoria look up to them, hoping to emulate their strict adherence and dedication to chivalry. They number perhaps 1,000 men in total and are one of the few remaining Almeronian orders to not accept women into their ranks, an oddity in Estoria. They are led by the legendary Sir Jean de Brillant, a knight of the highest and purest caliber.

Laws of The Immaculate
Knights of The Immaculate follow a strict chivalric code that severely limits much of their capabilities and ensures that they are never anything less than perfect.
 * 1) A Knight of The Immaculate must never harm an innocent.
 * 2) A Knight of The Immaculate may never engage in combat should their foe be already engaged.
 * 3) A Knight of The Immaculate may never curse.
 * 4) A Knight of The Immaculate may never fight from horseback against an opponent on foot.
 * 5) A Knight of The Immaculate may fight only with a sword suitable to his station and a lance from horseback.
 * 6) A Knight of The Immaculate may never abandon their steed while it yet lives.
 * 7) A Knight of The Immaculate must be chaste always.
 * 8) A Knight of The Immaculate must fight evil always, even at the cost of their lifeblood.
 * 9) A Knight of The Immaculate must keep their armor and garments pure and unstained whenever possible.
 * 10) A Knight of The Immaculate may never lie, save for if it is to destroy evil or save the life of an innocent.
 * 11) A Knight of The Immaculate may not gamble or drink.
 * 12) A Knight of The Immaculate may never insult Ignis or bring harm to a righteous servant of Ignis.
 * 13) A Knight of The Immaculate must decide any knightly dispute or matter of court by single combat.
 * 14) A Knight of The Immaculate must never unsheathe his blade unless he intends to use it.
 * 15) A Knight of The Immaculate may never forsake an oath unless it directly conflicts with his knightly vows.
 * 16) A Knight of The Immaculate must never let his banner touch the ground.
 * 17) A Knight of The Immaculate must pray for at least two hours of the day whenever possible.
 * 18) A Knight of The Immaculate may never engage an unsuspecting opponent.
 * 19) A Knight of The Immaculate must refuse any order that is contrary to these laws.
 * 20) A Knight of The Immaculate must end his own life should he disgrace his honor in any way.