How to be a paladin... or not

[Xanfyrst]

Paladins are a beacon (or bastion, depending on playstyle) of light in a world engulfed by darkness. They are the embodiment of justice, ethical law, order and sacrifice. They never back down from injustice, regardless who commits it. They help the needy in any way possible, when possible, even at their own expense. They are "married" to their god's dogma, always holding it closest to their hearts and do their best to never be tempted by anything in conflict with it.

That last bit is the whole struggle of being paladin. And yes, paladins are ALWAYS struggling. It's their strength and their weakness. Some fall because they have been dealing with evil so long it's getting increasingly harder to see the line between the two, with some paladins starting to do questionable things "for the greater good" instead. Road to hell is paved with good intentions, after all.

Some start to question their crusade against evil, maybe starting to find it pointless to waste their lives on something that looks to be futile. Others are hit by a personal tragedy that evokes something stronger inside them than loyalty and service to their deity and their order.

In my book, those made evil are far more dangerous than those born evil, as those made evil have tasted good in their life. They know how good thinks and acts better than any fiend ever will. It's why a fallen paladin is one of the most scary things among mortals. (fallen angels are worse)