Knights Errant

All noble sons of the Bretonnia are committed to the path of knighthood from the moment they are born. Though birth into nobility guarantees his place within the circles of knighthood, a young noble is not honored until he has proven his worth. Some earn status through faithful service to their lords, others through powerful connections and family ties, but the most glorious and true way for a young knight to fulfill his calling is to test himself agasint the foe on the field of battle.

Knights Errant project an air of bravado, dealing with peasants and fellow knights alike with a brash self-confidence and haughty manner. Eager to prove their skill, and thus attain status and renown, these young nobles are bold and enthusiastic to the point of recklessness. When a duke begins to marshall support for a crusade, Knights Errant flock to his banner in the tens of thousands. In the prime of youth, these ill-experienced but highly enthusiastic warriors comprise a significant portion of many Bretonnian armies. On the battlefield they are impetuous, eager to earn fame and honor in the thick of the fight. They charge bold into the fray, heedless of danger and earning either great honor or a glorious death. Fighting on horseback, these Knights often engage the best enemy regiments in their eagerness to earn the title of a Knight of the Realm. The older, more experienced knights rarely discourage them. Some see it as a way of pruning the ranks, others as a suitable outlet for the enthusiasm of youth, but none would deny a young knight his destiny. Those whose skill and bravery are proven will go on to become Knights of the Realm.

Source

 * Armybook: Bretonnia (7th Edition) pg. 48