During the grinding conquests of the rimward half of the Imperium, the story goes, the founding of the Knights Imperial came on a world with a linguistic history that included the so-called Romance languages of old Terra. While awarding a number of local heroes with Imperial Knighthood, the translation for the local populace's newscasts rendered their titles as "Chevalier Emperialle". Through what was undoubtedly a comedy of diplomatic correctness, the name, rendered as "Knights Imperial", made its way into the communiques back to Capital. Emperor Jerome decided to honor the linguistic lapse, and gracefully accepted his role as the Grand Master of yet another Order. Despite this, the Knights Imperial and the Knights of the Third Imperium present in the rimward campaigns considered themselves to be brothers in the same Order for years after, only officially splitting when the Moot confirmed the Emperor's actions in 575.
This Order has become the largest in the Third Imperium. Along with the Honorable Order of the Emperor's Guard, it is one of the most common Orders encountered.
Ordinary members are known as Companion of the Knights Imperial (C.K.I.). Members who acquire some renown rise to become Knights of the Knights Imperial (K.K.I.). Higher-ranking members of the order are known as Knight Commanders of the Knights Imperial (K.C.K.I.). The order has about 30 Knight Commanders. The head of the order is the Knight Grand Commander of the Knights Imperial (G.C.K.I.), a position automatically assumed by the Emperor, as the Duke of Core Sector. He may resign and appoint a successor, but this has never been done.
The badge of the order is 'sable, an astral crowned Imperial Sunburst or'.
The headquarters of the order are located on Capital. An manned information desk for members is located in the highport, with a few facilities for visiting members. The groundside complex is large complex, appropriate considering its size. It contains several archives, a museum, three dining facilties, a hostel, a facility of luxury accommodations (available at additional charge), and a spa. It has undergone numerous renovations over the centuries, the most recent ending in 1035.
This Order is considered among the "Knights Ordinary", and shares seniority with the Order of the Third Imperium, and the Order of the Empire.
Established: 575
Headquarters: Capital (Core 2118)
Leader: Emperor Strephon