How to Play a Good-Aligned Character

[denthor]

So let me ask you this-you clearly have to think before using poison. Do you have to think before stabbing someone to death? Because again-that's something D&D adventurers do ALL THE FLIPPING TIME.

Please understand I have a deep unbridled distain for the paladin class. I am irrational towards it.

One of the very little used rules is a paladin can not strike first. 2nd edition.

If you opponents use deadly force it is considered justified to return such force.

So to your question never start the fight always react.