glorify theinstitution he represents. A paladin attacks an enemy without hesitation, continuing to fightuntil the enemy withdraws or is defeated. Whenever possible, a paladin chooses the mostformidable enemya powerful monster, a giant, a dragon, or the leader of an armyas hisprimary opponent. In general, a paladin prefers melee to missile combat, so hecan engage his opponent face to face. Examples: A moment ago, SirGeffen and his companions were riding peacefully through a shaded valley when they were ambushed by a brutish hillgiant. The giant snatched young Fredrin from his horse and is now waving him in the air likea trophy. "I claim thisyouth as my slave!'' thunders the giant. "If you want him back, send your best man to fight!'' Withouthesitation, Sir Geffen rides forward. Locked in battlewith an army of ogres, Sir Geffen's party is suffering mounting casualties. "Withdraw!'' shouts Bordu, a friend ofGeffen. "We will regroup and fight another day!'' Sir Geffen'scompanions scramble from the battlefield, but Geffen lingers behind. "Come with us!'' cries Bordu. "You can't win!'' "Perhapsnot,'' says Geffen, steeling himself for a phalanx of charging ogres. "ButI shall cover your withdrawal as long as I can.'' At the DM'sdiscretion, a paladin can withdraw with honor if outnumbered by more than 2:1 in hit dice. If the paladin belongs to an eliteorganization, the DM might allow the paladin to withdraw if he faces odds of more than 3:1.If the player suspects such a situation exists, he may ask the DM whether a withdrawalwith honor is possible. With the DM's permission, the paladin may withdraw withoutviolating his ethos.Honor An honorablepaladin conducts himself with integrity regardless of circumstance. He behaves in a morally sound manner even when he's by himselfor when no one else will know of his actions. It's an admirable act to comfort adying friend, but an act of honor to comfort a dying enemy. Honor alsoinvolves respect, not just for the paladin's peers and superiors, but for anyone sharing the paladin's commitment to goodness. Thepaladin shows mercy to the repentant, and refuses to inflict unduesuffering even on the vilest evildoer. Additionally, anhonorable paladin: Defers to thejudgment of all chaotic good characters of superior social class, rank, and level. Acknowledges thedignity of all chaotic good people, regardless of their race, class, or economic status, by treating them with courtesy and respect. Accepts allchallenges to duel or fight given by those of comparable status and power. (A challenge from an arrogant youngster or a drunkenwarrior may go unheeded). Dies beforecompromising his principles, betraying his liege or faith, or abandoning a protected charge. Examples: After a lengthybattle, the king of the lizard men lies bleeding at Sir Geffen's feet. "I beg you,'' gasps the lizard king, "Let me live.'' SirGeffen reflects. The lizard king is old and broken. He can no longer be considered a threat. And hehas fought honorably. Sir Geffensheathes his sword. He motions for his aides to haul the lizard king away. The king will spend his remaining years in prison. Sir Geffen has beencaptured by a cult of evil clerics. Bound with chains, Sir Geffen stares