does "smite" translate in attack, or does "smite" in DnD not necessarily mean violence? I am wondering because of the last lines of your response.
It does translate as violence. In this game it would be very difficult to play a pacifist who would qualify for national service instead of the draft, i.e., someone who wouldn't defend themselves if attacked. You would need to instead only play someone who tries their utmost to avoid violence and then only uses the amount necessary to fend of attack.
If the game would support this they could fix the issue with non lethal attacks (right now subdued enemies attack once they wake up), bring in nets as weapons, allow enemies to be tied up, and institute a surrender mechanic. (because right now I really need to beat those tieflings near the goblin cage -- come on guys you are defeated)
This is if you go the serious route. You could also go comic-cynical. Think how much violence in our world is justified in terms of peace. Peace keepers, officers sworn to uphold the peace . . . peacekeeper missiles for macaroni's sake. You could make a paladin with a very legalistic view of violence.
Also, I have always assumed but by now I feel like maybe I should ask - paladins would remain lawful or neutral at worst (like LG, NG, LN, N etc), right? I'd have a hard time imagining a paladin as chaotic... But perhaps one could build a character - like a paladin steward / apprentice that is more chaotic leaning but being led into the more lawful side by their mentor (which is a "true" paladin)?
I think that's most consistent with the original archetype, yes. And if that feel authentic you should go with it. I kinda wish that WotC called non lawful paladins "champions" or some such.
But I could see a champion of chaos -- Haer'Dalis in BG2 was a bit of one. Someone who was committed to tearing down old structures, someone who rejoiced in the ending of things and supports any and all rebels.
I had character concept that I never ran in 3.5 -- wanted to run a chaotic neutral characters who was neither crazy or carefree. Young girl born as a slave in Thay, one day her master travels to a Thayan enclave in another city and she uses the opportunity to escape and seek sanctuary in a temple of Helm. After much discussion among the priests about the nature of law the Helmites return her to her old master. Later, as an adult, she escapes again and emerges from Thay with a burning hatred for the law, dedicating her life to tearing down the law in all its forms.
I wanted to run her as a wizard but would do even better as a champion of chaos -- someone or something heard her cursing the law under her breath and responded by giving her power.
But, yes, if you are thinking Joan of Arc or Lancelot you want to play a lawful alignment.
