The Art of Chivalry is an extension of the knight. Acting in a chivalrous manner at all times is expected. Such traits, but not limited to, humility, wisdom, and strength promote this. A Knight is not a perfect specimen of a human being. Some parts of the code will be closer to his personality than others. A Knight can be happy go lucky, stern and disciplined, a drunk, a woman chaser, etc. That is left to the player to decide. However, one must take into account how his actions and demeanor will portray to the higher ranks. What must be seen is how his personality accepts, or conflicts with the code he follows. Such as, how he deals with people, and his favor with the monarchy and commoners. Put some flesh and bone into your Knight, he's not simply a fierce warrior, but a man, full of as many flaws and frailties as we have in real life. These are the things to be examined. By the time one actually goes through squire hood, they should have a pretty good idea of how their character will act as a Knight.
Knights, while for the most part are humble, also crave legendary status. This is gained through the impression the Knight leaves with the commoners. Partaking and excelling in guild hunts, tournaments, telling stories, and every day role-play are great ways to make your fame. All Knights want to be the best and create a name for themthat the commoners will call him. The interaction between the common man and the Knight is key to one's role-play; do they revel in your goodness and strength? Or perhaps are disgusted by your extramarital pursuits and sloth. Nicknames will soon follow the Knight's deeds such as, "Blue Blade", "Orc Slayer", the "Knight of Whores", etc. Whatever the name is, cherish it for the commoners have taken an interest in you and that is not something easily gained. Be a Knight of exemplary character and the name may loom favorably on you such as "Knight of the Rose". Be an utter disgraceful Knight, falling down drunk in the streets looking for change and the people may call you the "Beggar Knight". Knight Characters are also required to have a profile under "Members" that tells of your character's history and so forth.
The game Ultima Online is designed to be just that, a game. It is supposed to be fun. Do not become worked up over little things. You do not have to be a guildmaster to lead, if you play your character well, and he becomes a favorite of the crowd, you will be a leader, with having done nothing but play the game. Do not try and become a Knight for a cool title and lots of PvP. We are trying to create a role-playing community and you are just as much a part of it as the rest of us. There will be plenty of fights, some you may win, some you may lose, but fighting should not be your only reason for being a Knight. Playing a Knight that brings something new and interesting to the community is why you became a knight. Create your character and have fun with them and all their idiosyncrasies. You do not have to talk with everyone in the game but interact with as many people as you can. Becoming a Knight is recognition that you have the skills in place to be a good addition to the Knights of Inethria. Not merely as a warrior, but as a character that will enhance the community. So, be noble and good heart. Give aid to those who need it and bring the blade to bare to those who have earned your rage. Be mindful of King and Lord and seek always to do what is best for your House and Kingdom.
Prowess - To seek excellence in all endeavors expected of a knight, martial and otherwise, seeking strength to be used in the service of justice, rather than in personal aggrandizement.
Justice - Seek always the path of 'right', unencumbered by bias or personal interest. Recognize that the sword of justice can be a terrible thing, so it must be tempered by humanity and mercy. If the 'right' you see rings in agreement with others, and you seek it out without bending to the temptation for expediency, then you will earn renown beyond measure.
Loyalty - Be known for unwavering commitment to the people and ideals you choose to live by. There are many places where compromise is expected; loyalty is not amongst them.
Defense - The ideal knight was sword by oath to defend his liege lord and those who depend upon him. Seek always to defend your nation, your family, and those to whom you believe worthy of loyalty.
Courage - Being a knight often means choosing the more difficult path, the personally expensive one. Be prepared to make personal sacrifices in service of the precepts and people you value. Courage also means taking the side of truth in all matters, rather than seeking the expedient lie. Seek the truth whenever possible, but remember to temper justice with mercy, or the pure truth can bring grief.
Faith -A knight must have faith in his beliefs, for faith roots him and gives hope against the despair that human feelings create.
Humility - Value first the contributions of others; do not boast your own accomplishments, let others do this for you. Tell the deeds of others before your own, according the renown rightfully earned through virtuous deeds. In this way the office of knighthood is well done and glorified, helping not only the gentle spoken of but also all who call themselves knights.
Largesse - Be generous in so far as your resources allow; largesse used in this way counters gluttony. It also makes the path of mercy easier to discern when a difficult decision of justice is required.
Nobility - Seek great stature of character by holding to the virtues and duties of a knight. Nobility has the tendency to influence others, offering a compelling example of what can be done in the service of rightness.
Franchise - seek to emulate everything spoken of as sincerely as possible, not for the reason of personal gain but because it is right. Do not restrict your exploration to a small world, but seek to infuse every aspect of your life with these qualities. Should you succeed in even a tiny measure then you will be well remembered for your quality and virtue.
