Greyhawk Shieldlands

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====== Knights of Holy Shielding ======

The Knights of Holy Shielding were organized in the mid-300s CY in order to defend the multitude of small domains and their rulers in the regions north of the [[nyr_dyv_summary|Nyr Dyv]].

Knights of Holy Shielding believe that actions are more important than words. Action show the knight is practicing his vows.

The order has two branches,the Lay Brothers and the Sworn Knights.  Recruits come from far and wide to join the Lay Brothers, who swear a 5 year oath of fealty to the order and take a temporary vow of obedience. During their 5 years of service the Lay Brothers serve as soldiers for the cause of Law defending the Shield Lands.  Some serve from desire to defend the realms from the Bandits, Horned Society and Iuz; some serve for the chance to win fame and glory; some serve to escape trouble back home.  After 5 years, most Lay Brothers return home but some do not.  A small number sign on for another 5 years, but some take on a lifetime commitment, becoming Sworn Knights.  The Sworn Knights must be fighters or cleric-militants of Heironeous or St. Cuthbert and swear lifetime vows of poverty, chastity and obedience.  They are freed from any oaths of fealty or homage to any worldly lord, except the Knight Commander.

The army is organized into companies of around 50 men, each named after a fearsome beast and commanded by a Sworn Knight captain. One such companies is [[Hydra Company]], commanded by [[Wilford|Sir Wilford of Bromley]], a sworn knight. Hydra Company usually is to be found patrolling the border and quickly aiding border lords against bandit and Horned Society raids.  There are usually about 5 Sworn Knights and 45 Lay Brothers in the company.  Another company is [[Dragon Company]], made up of Sworn Knights and close relatives of the highest nobility of major allies of the Shieldlands.  This company acts as Earl Holmer's bodyguard and elite strike force.


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