|
The
Knights Panther were established after the wars against
Araby when returning crusaders brought back magnificent
leopards, tigers, and panthers, as well as furs that
adorned their clothing. The Knights still trim their
clothes and crests with whatever exotic spotted or
striped fur they can obtain. Their shields carry the
emblem of their Order, the fabled spotted panther
of Araby.
Though the crusades against Araby have long been
over, the Knights Panther still carry their lances
against the despotic lords of the south. Such fanaticism
is not unusual in Knightly Orders, though most choose
to battle a foe somewhat closer to home. In the past
century, two separate Imperial Decrees commanding
the Knights Panther to desist have been issued, but
both times, these commands were rescinded. The Imperial
Court preferred to offend a distant foreign nation
rather than a powerful martial force.
Unlike many Knightly Orders, the Knights Panther
owe their first loyalty to the Empire itself and are
sworn to the protection of its people and lands. The
Knights Panther are based predominantly in the cities
of Middenheim and Talabheim. These cities are traditionally
major centers of Ulric worship, and as a result, the
Knights Panther have a fierce rivalry with the Knights
of the White Wolf, each Order trying to outdo the
other in battle.
|
