Your basic fighting man who has been ennobled. This is the lowest level of noblity. Not all of Knights held fiefs, or even lands. Once a year, the kings of France, England and the Holy Roman Emperor (for players in the Empire) and the pope (for players in Spain and Italy) may knight three NPCs. They have "Sir", "Chevalier", "Ritter" etc. added to their first name and get a one time stature boost of "1". This process is automated for the Kings of England and France, the Game Sysop will handle the technical details for the HRE and Pope. Only NPCs of exceptional merit should be so honored, not just your favorite bailiff.