What I have found is not all folks 'get' the religion thing the first time they attempt it. Empowered characters are a bear and paladins are contantly under the microscope. Because you didn't get the thrust of the religion the first time, I would hope you keep at it to see what it is all about. You have the makings of a competent paladin if you are willing to take what you learn from any errors you made. For empoweree, I am willing to take the time to see if I can help folks work through any problems. Because empowerment is reduced or a tattoo taken, does not mean the character isn't viable or cannot be redeemed in the religion.

innis@carrionfields.com