Since the earliest days of the kingdom, this unique ordo of knights has served the monarch directly. Its task is to seek out the followers of Night Lords, Dark Gods, and any who undermine the Realm. By book and blade, these knights are trained in the deep secrets of hunting the darkest forces of the world.

The finest and strongest horses, those bred and trained specifically for war, are called destriers, and nowhere are they found in such numbers and such quality as in Equitaine. The pride of knights and lords alike, these noble beasts are in large part responsible for the kingdom’s military strength.

Equitaine is home to many strange creatures; some are suitable for riding even if they’re not large enough to become knightly mounts. Perytons – part eagle, part deer – are particularly prized for their agility, among other winged combinations. Such animals are often depicted on coats of arms: valiant symbols of the Realm, descending upon enemies in a mighty storm.

While all horses are beloved by Equitans, the legendary unicorn is the only steed subject to outright worship. Intelligent beings able to cross the Veil at will, they rarely appear to mortals and only accept the Lady’s closest servants as riders. Magically connected to the natural world cherished by the Goddess, wild regions hold no dangers for a unicorn’s allies.

These mounts are prized above all others in Equitaine, and with good reason. Among all the peoples of the world, only the Equitans have learned the secrets of breeding pegasi in captivity. From their origins at Whitewing’s Abbey, these winged steeds have carried the flower of Equitaine’s chivalry to victory in battle for generations.

The largest of the mortal mounts commonly used by Equitans in battle, hippogriffs are ferocious beasts combining the front half of an eagle and the back half of a horse. Powerful both over ground and in the air, the cost of their breeding and maintenance means that only the lords of the land can feasibly afford to keep such a prized animal.

The mythic horses that dwell in the Lady’s Realm are seen in the material world only when ridden by the supernal entourage of the Evermaiden. But in exceptional circumstances, truly worthy mortals have also earned or tamed such a mount. From nuckelavees to kelpies and brags, some resemble mundane horses, others are more fantastical. All are mysterious and magically warded.

These knights are often the younger sons of the nobility, or other landless warriors who have not attained a permanent place in a lord’s retinue. Typically young and headstrong, they favour agile cob mounts that give them speed over safety, and throw themselves into every fray to prove their valour and secure a place.

Not all who join the ordos are clerks, teachers and spiritual guides. Some of their number embrace the faith by joining in battle against the enemies of the Lady, bringing Her word to those who have yet to hear it. Their rounceys are superb all-purpose horses, fine steeds for war and peace alike.

Part of the obligation laid upon the lower orders of Equitaine is some form of service to a local lord. Usually this is paid in labour, but in time of war, they may be brought to battle to support the lord’s knights, fight on foot, and fulfil the menial duties of which all armies are in need.

The tradition of archery has long been mandated in northern Equitaine, while in the south both longbow and crossbow are held in great esteem. Skilled bowmen command higher wages and privileges than their levied brethren, and are often exempt from the general toil of the camps, acting as perimeter guards and ranged support for the army.

Monks, nuns, and all manner of zealous lowborn seek battle against the enemies of the Queen of Cups. Following holy leaders or popular causes, many bring the sacred relics of the faith with them into battle, including Sainted remains. Inspired by this proximity to the divine, they in turn incite the faithful to greater acts of piety and valour.

Dukes claim the allegiance of dozens, often hundreds of knights. Their courts are a bustle of politics and intrigue, with frequent contests of arms. The greatest knights, their mettle tested in battles and tourneys, may be chosen as close retainers, to remain permanently at court. Equipped with the finest arms, both mundane and magical, they can achieve supernatural feats of heroism on the field. % The greatest of the knights of Equitaine become famed among their peers for their skill and elan, often established at tourneys where they hone the art of the unstoppable charge. The strongest of these acclaimed knights are invited to join colourful fellowships in mixed livery, leading Equitan armies or pledged to protect a specific lord.

Knights who have dishonored themselves are given leave to seek atonement through the three tenets of the faith, joining crusades or noble lords to wipe clean the stain on their souls. Their determination and ferocity is the surest path back, and their most feared aspect. They use the largest steeds and heaviest weapons, representing the weight of their sins.

These knights have set aside their status and ambition in the realms of men to take up the mantle of the Quest. Embracing hardship and toil, they must achieve great deeds of valour, often by slaying particular foes. Enduring many forms of encounter during their holy missions, these living martyrs choose to put aside the lance and rely on the versatility of large swords.

Yeomen hold the highest position of soldiery allowed to the lowborn. These outriders are placed in charge of their lord’s riding horses and dogs, acting as patrolmen and vanguards; their own steeds are bred and famed for swiftness. Yeomen are given the best food and pay among the milites, and are sworn to permanent service to their lord’s household.

Seeking remission for their crimes or a release from traditional feudal contracts, Equitaine’s rugged outlaws may agree to fight for lords willing to grant them pardon. Harrying enemies with keen shooting and stalking unseen in the wilds, they are an effective if irregular scout force.

Traditionally an honour granted by the king, the use of a pegasus is a sign of great distinction for any knight. After choosing and bonding with the mount, they must train together and with fellow airborne knights for months or years before they reach their full potential in battle.

The most trusted of a lord’s yeomen are his sky heralds. These retainers are charged with mastery of flying mounts which lack the strength to bear a fully armoured knight to the skies, but are nonetheless fierce and useful. Mount and master are cunning and clever, hunting enemies at the flanks and from above.

From Giants of the Ninth Age