Hmm. First you agreed that you were nothing but a gear-gatherer, now you seem to want to argue it. Maybe Shokai is wrong, maybe the imms were watching at all the wrong times. Maybe you really weren't as bad as some people think.

I think that Shokai didn't do what he did to be a jerk. It's my opinion that he noticed some sketchy things (or someone else) and tried to set you in the right direction. Paladins are empowerment classes, which means that they are subject to the whim of their God at all times. If he saw you mess up the *only* time you did, which I just highly doubt, then he's still right. Take it is a learning tool. What better way to get back at Shokai then to show him that you really aren't greedy and make him re-empower you, retitle you, and maybe even tattoo you?

My best advice: Let this one go, you did some really good things as a Paladin, but if you do some bad things too... Well then you didn't do your job roleplaying a Paladin. If you can get a good idea of what the concept of chivalry is about, that's the best place to start when roleplaying a paladin. Most of the Paladin Code has to do with respect. Respect yourself and your comrades, and even your enemies. If you ever think that your doing something might be disrespectful or borderline, don't do it.

I have a feeling that your next character is going to learn from these mistakes, but I wouldn't recommend playing a Paladin just yet. Take a break and come out with your Paladin with the mind frame: "I'm really going to show people what being a Paladin is all about." I'd recommend not playing a Shokai paladin either, try something with not so much of a combat aspect (though played properly, combat is probably inevitable) so you can really get into your role instead of raiding/retrieving all the time.

Nicolette