Imperial Knight Warhammer 40K – Part 2 (Part 2 of 4)

The Feudal System of the Knight Worlds

Across the galaxy, thousands of Knight houses operate under a strict feudal system, pledging their allegiance to either the Adeptus Terra or Adeptus Mechanicus. Each world is ruled by one or more Knight Houses, led by nobles who pilot mighty Knight suits into battle.

Ranks and Titles

To become a Knight Pilot, one must undergo the grueling Ritual of Becoming. Within the Knight Houses, various ranks and titles exist. Those sworn to the Adeptus Terra are led by a High Monarch, with Barons ruling over fiefs of territory. The baronial rank of Kingsward protects the liege on the field and at court, denoted by a pair of crossed swords. Other roles include the King’s herald and gatekeeper of his fortress.

Mechanicum-Sworn Houses

Knight Houses sworn to the Adeptus Mechanicus often accompany the Collegia Titanica into battle or garrison key Forge Worlds. Their organizational structure is similar to those Houses sworn to the Adeptus Terra, with a Princeps leading the House and Barons holding various titles. Unlike their Terra-sworn counterparts, Mechanicum-sworn Houses may be stationed with a Titan Legion permanently.

Household Ranks

Beyond the broad titles and ranks, several lesser-known Household ranks exist. These include:

  • Seneschal: Masters of ceremony and martial tradition
  • Arbalester: Scions excelling at ranged combat
  • Aucteller: Sacrificial Scions oath-sworn to strike down enemy warriors
  • Dolorus: Famed beast slayers known for their ferocity
  • Preceptor: Technological experts with a deep bond between man and machine
  • Uhlan: Hot-blooded Knights seeking close-range combat
  • Aspirant: Younger Scions taking apprenticeships with older Knights

The Commoners

A sub-class of Drovers exists, responsible for caring for animal herds. Despite facing threats from predators and xenos raids, Drovers are not armed and rely on the Knights for protection. This creates a dependency comfortable for the nobles, making revolt virtually impossible. Men-at-arms, resembling Planetary Defence Forces, are also employed by each House, along with artificers and technicians who maintain the Knight walkers and arbitrate between the Knight Houses.

The Chivalry

With the acceptance of the values of Duty, Honour, and Valour, the Knights became known as The Chivalry. They conduct frequent battles against indigenous predators, honing their martial skills into a deadly art. Knights retire when they reach old age, passing their Battle Armour down to their heir and donning the armour of a Knight Warden.

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