So, as we all know, one of the requirements of becoming a Hellknight is:
【The character must slay a devil with HD greater than his character level. This victory must be witnessed by a Hell Knight.】
And as expanded by the rulebook:
【Running a Hell Knight Test: The Hell Knight test requires each would-be Hell Knight to slay a devil whose Hit Dice exceed her own. Such a test is typically performed to fulfill the requirements of the Hell Knight or Hell Knight signifer prestige class, which many classes can access by 5th level. As such, 6-HD bearded devils are the fiends most commonly battled during the test (higher-level initiates must face higher-level devils). Those taking the test are allowed to carry into battle any weapons, armor, wands, potions, and other equipment they wish. Additionally, they may receive the benefits of allies’ magic, so long as it is cast prior to the test’s start. The ceremony preceding the test typically lasts over an hour, meaning that spells with a duration in minutes typically wear off before combat begins. During the test, should an armiger receive aid from outside the testing ring, she is disqualified and imprisoned (along with her conspirators). Such cheaters typically face a brief trial and execution.】
However, what is the 'exact timing' one would become a true Hellknight in the context of PFS, which calculates EXP meticulously? Is it when a character is at level 5 maxed exp and ready to level up into level 6, ask the GM from PFS to run a Hellknight test encounter, and if they emerge victorious they take all of the 1st level Hellknight stuff as their 6th level?
Or is it possible to take the test at the beginning of level 5 (but not have enough exp to level up just yet), emerge victorious, then however much time later they level up and become a Hellknight?
What happens if the character decides to *not* take the Hellknight level immediately? Like having passed the test at level 5, but taking Fighter 6 and planning to get Hellknight at level 7? What are the consequences? (Aside from being sneered at by your Hellknight peers for delaying) Would they still qualify, or would they need to retake the test at the new level?