THE IMPERIAL THEODOSIAN COURT

[ErosTea 1084]

Penned by,

His Highness, 

the Prince of Alstion

Anno Domini, 15th of Godfrey’s Triumph, 2037

 

The Imperial Court of Man Stylized in Paradisian Garb; Prince Hadrian pictured left, Prince Maximilian next to him, 

Emperor Tiberias center, Empress Circe to his right, the High Pontifex, Courtiers; Lord and Lady of Alba pictured far right.

 

•• ━━━━━ •• ✠ •• ━━━━━ ••

 

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THE IMPERIAL THEODOSIAN COURT

 

LET IT BE KNOWN, in the year of the Lord our GOD, two-thousand and thirty-seven, it is by decree of Their Imperial Majesties, Tiberias I Horen, Emperor of Man, Holy Imperator, and Circe Horen, née Mareno, Empress of Man, that this Imperial Court be established as the unified body in which all of man might gather, not solely for governance and the convening of great bodies but to drink their fill from the great spring that is Our court. It is through this proclamation that all men shall adhere to the purview of the Imperial Court in regard to address, fashion, etiquette, moral standing, and conduct of life. That it may be the central axis upon which the Lords and Ladies of the Empire shall commune with one another and the Imperial Crown.

 

The Imperial Theodosian Court takes its name in reverence of Empress Theodosia, who, though oft unseen, stood ever at Emperor Aurelius' side. While the forefront of his reign was one of prosperity and clarity, it was the good Empress Theodosia who acted as her husband's hands when he could not. She was his confidante, his scribe, his mirror in thought. And together, they exemplified the pillars upon which true balance is built: the display of power and the charity of good counsel. So shall the Empire now be girded by two pillars—its legionaries and its court. Like Empress Theodosia herself, the latter shall be the realm's guiding voice. By naming it in her honor, we bind ourselves to the legacy of Aurelius and Theodosia, a testament that Our great Empire's sovereignty lies not only in the sword's power but in the quiet resolve of assembly and instruction.

 

All titled Lords and Ladies, raised as stewards of land and people with the assent of His Imperial Majesty, are by right and duty made members of this Court. Within Our Imperial Assembly, they shall be expected to render more than appearance; they are to maintain an active presence in the governance, ceremonial life, stewardship of the realm’s customs, culture, and above all else, faith. While it is an afforded responsibility, it is one of privilege; failure to uphold the standards of Our body is to forsake the generosity of their Imperial Majesties and the gentility of one’s peers. To be dismissed from Court would be to find one’s cup emptied of all favor. Thus, let each member of this Court commit themselves, in full, to the prosperity of Our body lest they be severed from her fruits entirely.

 

This guiding compendium shall discuss the established roles and courtesies within the Imperial Court of Man, let it be the standard of principles upon which man, once fractured, shall maintain its unity through the pursuits and custodianship of Our body. Through this Court, its offices, its rites, and its expectations, the realm shall be girdled in dignity, its traditions preserved, and its people led in strength and civility. Herein are laid the forms of address, the duties of office, and the customs both spoken and unspoken that govern Our gathering. Let no Lord or Lady claim ignorance, for the path of proper conduct is now made plain.

 

GOD SAVE THE EMPEROR! LONG LIVE THE EMPIRE!

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 

 

𝕀 | INSTITUTIONS OF COURT

A codex on the offices of the Theodosian Court.

𝕀𝕀 | COURT HONORIFICS

A codex on the address of the Noble peers.

𝕀𝕀𝕀 | IMPERIAL FAMILY

A codex on the Imperial Family and their stylings.

𝕀𝕍 | ETIQUETTE

A codex on expected courtly manners.

𝕍 | FASHION

A codex on expected courtly attire.

𝕍𝕀 | AFTERWORD

Remarks as penned by His Highness of Alstion.

Page 1

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𝕀. INSTITUTIONS OF COURT

LADY SENESCHAL, HEAD OF THE ROYAL RETINUE

Her Excellency, Elaine Vander

The Lady Seneschal is the leading officer of the Royal Household’s Retinue. Responsible for the governance and cohesion of those closest to the Royal Family, the Lady Seneschal oversees the hiring, management, and conduct of all those who may cross the threshold into the most inner chambers of the Royal Family. Beyond staffing, the Lady Seneschal holds the second-highest rank within the Theodosian Court, only second to the Chamberlain, and shall defer to the Lord Chamberlain or Her Imperial Majesty in regard to the daily runnings of the court.

 

Those under the purview of the Lady Seneschal:

 

GOVERNESS

Her Excellency, Cosima von Leopold

Governors and Governesses are charged with the stewarding and education of the Royal Household and the young Lords and Ladies who ward within the Theodosian Court. All prospective tutors are required to take and pass tests on the histories of man, court etiquette, and advanced arithmetic, all to be administered by the Lord Seneschal.

HIGH ALMONER

His Holiness, Harrentzedek, High Pontifex

The Lord High Almoner, appointed by the Lord Seneschal with input of the Holy Mother Church, oversees the Royal Household’s religious endowments, acting as a spiritual advisor for the Crown and the Theodosian Court and ensuring His Imperial Majesty’s mercy reaches the poor through the administration of alms and charity. 

NOBLE ATTENDANTS

The Lords and Ladies in Waiting of the Theodosian Court are appointed by the Lord Seneschal, or at the pleasure of Their Imperial Majesties, to be the personal companions to the members of the Royal Household. Gentlemen ushers, headed by the Groom of the Stool, shall attend to the male members of the Household whilst Ladies in Waiting, headed by the First Lady of Honor, shall attend to the female members of the Household.

WARDS

Wards submitted for tutelage under the Theodosian Court, approved by the Lord Seneschal and cared for by their guardians, shall be regarded and recognized as Pages and Maids of Honor. The process of warding can begin as early as five and ends, typically, at the age of eighteen, where they then may be officially recognized as a gentleman or lady of the court, or offered a higher position within the Theodosian Court.

 

Only those with a recognized position within the Theodosian Court might be afforded a ward, up to two, whilst Their Imperial Majesties may take up as many wards as they see fit or choose to bestow a ward upon a member of the Court.

SERVANTRY

The backbone of the Lord Seneschal’s office, the servantry, composed of maids and butlers, are tasked with ensuring the ease of events and catering to the needs of the Royal Household. While the servantry shall remain ever discreet and unobtrusive in the presence of the Crown, they are expected to maintain the highest standards of decorum, vigilance, and readiness. 

LORD CHAMBERLAIN, HEAD OF THE COURT ASSEMBLY

His Imperial Excellency, Prince Edward Alstion, Archduke of Alba

The Lord Chamberlain is the leading officer of the Theodosian Court. As the first contact for all matters regarding this court, he is responsible for the health and nurturing of its assembly. As liaison on behalf of Their Imperial Majesties, he oversees the reception of guests, the presentation of petitions, and the observance of protocol in all formal gatherings. No person, whether noble, foreign dignitary, or commoner, may presume upon the privileges of the court without first being acknowledged through this office.
 

Those under the purview of the Lord Chamberlain:

 

LADY SENESCHAL

Her Excellency, Elaine Vander

The Lady Seneschal is the leading officer of the Royal Household’s Retinue. Responsible for the governance and cohesion of those closest to the Royal Family, the Lady Seneschal oversees the hiring, management, and conduct of all those who may cross the threshold into the innermost chambers of the Royal Family.

IMPERIAL ARCHIVIST

His Excellency, Lord Konstantin Leon von Augusten, Margrave of Schwyz

The Lord Archivist serves as the chief steward of the written and remembered history of the Theodosian Court and royal family. They are entrusted with the careful recording of all royal events, decrees, and proceedings, serving as the court’s scribe during ceremonies and councils. Beyond chronicling, the Lord Archivist oversees the preservation and organization of the kingdom’s artifacts and relics.

LORD PHYSICIAN

The Lord Physician holds responsibility for the health and well-being of the Royal Household and those who serve within the Theodosian Court. All physicians must undergo examinations in herbcraft and alchemy, with their qualifications certified and reviewed by the Lord Chamberlain. The Lord Physician shall also serve as the premier head of medicinal practices within the Kingdom of Burgundy.

MASTER OF GAMES

The Master of Games oversees all entertainments, tournaments, and hunts held within the Theodosian Court. Tasked with arranging both leisure and ceremonial sport, the Master of Games must also maintain the kennels, stables, and the training of all creatures used for noble pastime.

MASTER OF ROBES

Her Excellency, Princess Madelief Mareno, Princess of Myrine

The Master of Robes attends to the apparel and presentation of the Theodosian Court, ensuring that garments for every ceremony, courtly appearance, and rite are prepared to the highest standard whilst also ensuring every lord adheres to a set of strict sumptuary laws. Tailors, seamstresses, and jewelers shall labor under the Master of Robes careful supervision.

IMPERIAL COURT MAGE

Her Excellency, Vivien Maelstorm

The Imperial Court Mage serves as the chief authority on all arcane matters within the Theodosian Court, acting as the primary advisor and enforcer of magical affairs on behalf of His Imperial Majesty. Tasked with overseeing the lawful use of magic throughout the realm, the Court Mage ensures that all enchantments, divinations, and protections conducted within the Realm of Man adhere to sanctioned protocols. Sorcerers, alchemists, and mages shall answer to the Court Mage's purview.

MEMBERS OF THE COURT

The Gentlemen and Ladies of the Theodosian Court are drawn from the lordly families of the realm and shall be regarded with the respect due to their station. To be acknowledged as a Gentleman or Lady of the Court is to have one's position formally recognized, with the attendant expectation of upholding the customs and etiquette befitting the court. Visiting dignitaries and those of low birth may be granted recognition within the court only upon presenting themselves to the Lord Chamberlain or directly to Their Imperial Majesties.

 

IMPERIAL ARCHCHANCELLOR, HEAD OF THE IMPERIAL PRIVY OF MIDDELAN

His Imperial Excellency, Lord Ledicort de Senna, Margrave of Mount Santa-Lorina

The Imperial Archchancellor is the chief legal officer of the Kingdom of Burgundy, holding the highest appointed position beneath His Majesty. As confidant and advisor to the Crown, the Lord Chancellor bears the responsibility as keeper of the Great Seal, distributing all royal decrees to the public on behalf of His Majesty. As the head of His Majesty’s Privy, the Council of Middelan, he shall ease the running of the Kingdom by effectively distributing tasks and maintaining transparency to the council.

 

Those under the purview of the Imperial Archchancellor:

 

LORD CHAMBERLAIN

His Imperial Excellency, Prince Edward Alstion, Archduke of Alba

The Lord Chamberlain is the leading officer of the Theodosian Court. As the first contact to all matters regarding this court, he is responsible for the health and nurturing of its assembly. As a seated member of the Council of Middelan, the Lord Chamberlain shall report on the current proceedings of the Court and bring to the council's attention any significant events that may require their counsel or aid.

LORD TREASURER

His Imperial Excellency, Hugh le Gras

The Lord Treasurer is the holder of the Privy Purse and keeper of the Royal Treasury. As the first contact to all matters regarding the economic state, he is responsible for taxes, funding public projects, and the maintenance of His Majesty’s Lands. As a seated member of the Council of Middelan, the Lord Treasurer shall report on the current wealth of Burgundy’s coffers and shall provide regular updates on losses and ways to invigorate the Royal Treasury.

LORD JUSTICAR

His Imperial Excellency, Imperial Prince Hadrian Horen, Crown Prince

The Lord Justicar serves as a chief enforcer of the realm's laws, acting with authority granted by the Crown to ensure justice is swiftly and fairly administered. As the first contact to carry out the King's justice, the Lord Justicar presides over legal matters both great and small. As a seated member of the Council of Middelan, the Lord Justicar shall work closely with the Lord Chancellor to aid in the interpretation and enforcement of royal decrees and report on the developments of criminal offenses within Burgundy.

IMPERIAL MARSHAL

His Imperial Excellency, Manfred von Berkhoven

The Lord Marshal is the head of the Burgundian Soldiers. As the first contact to all matters regarding the military, he is responsible for maintaining and training of Burgundy’s armed forces. As a seated member of the Council of Middelan, the Lord Marshal shall report on the current progress of the military and bring to the council's attention any developments regarding the safety and security of Burgundy and her people.

IMPERIAL GRAND KNIGHT

His Imperial Excellency, Ser Sirius Mareno, Dragon’s Right Eye

The Lord Knight Commander is leader of His Majesty’s Kings Guard and the Order of Red Scales. As the first contact to the direct safety of the Royal Household and members of the Theodosian Court, he is responsible for their protection at all times and making records of all the knight orders within Burgundy. As a seated member of the Council of Middelan, the Lord Knight Commander shall report on the developments of the Order of Red Scales.

LORD PRAETOR

His Imperial Excellency, Prince Coenraed van Aert, Prince of Blackvale

The Lord Praetor is a seat-holding officer of the Theodosian Court tasked with overseeing matters of intra-imperial bellicose conflict. He is responsible for the adjudication of rules of engagement, the articulation of vassal war goals, and the impartial tracking of victory conditions. Working in close accord with the Imperial Marshal and the Justiciar, the Lord Praetor shall hear complaints related to military and judicial affairs, and execute the Emperor’s will where necessary.

 

Page 2

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𝕀𝕀. HONORIFICS

ROLL OF ADDRESS

A lexicon of every given title and their respective stylings.

IMPERIAL ADDRESS

The Emperor
Styled as: His Imperial Majesty, Emperor of Man

Letter Address: Your Imperial Majesty

Oral Address: Your Imperial Majesty, and thereafter, Majesty

 

The Empress
Styled as: Her Imperial Majesty, Empress of Man

Letter Address: Your Imperial Majesty

Oral Address: Your Imperial Majesty, and thereafter, Majesty

 

The Imperial Crown Prince
Styled as: His Imperial Highness, Imperial Crown Prince of Man

Letter Address: Your Imperial Highness

Oral Address: Your Imperial Highness, and thereafter, Highness

 

An Imperial Prince
Styled as: His Imperial Highness, Imperial Prince of Man

Letter Address: Your Imperial Highness

Oral Address: Your Imperial Highness, and thereafter, Highness

 

An Imperial Princess
Styled as: Her Imperial Highness, Imperial Princess of Man

Letter Address: Your Imperial Highness

Oral Address: Your Imperial Highness, and thereafter, Highness

 

An Imperial Councilor
Styled as: His Imperial Excellency, The Lord [Office]

Letter Address: Your Imperial Excellency
Oral Address: Your Imperial Excellency, and thereafter, Sir/Madam

ROYAL ADDRESS

A King
Styled as: His Majesty, King of [relevant title]

Letter Address: Your Majesty
Oral Address: Your Majesty, and thereafter, Majesty

 

A Queen or Queen-Regnant
Styled as: Her Majesty, Queen of [relevant title]

Letter Address: Your Majesty
Oral Address: Your Majesty, and thereafter, Majesty

 

A Prince-Consort
Styled as: His Royal Highness, King-Consort of [relevant title]

Letter Address: Your Royal Highness
Oral Address: Your Royal Highness, and thereafter, Highness

 

PRINCELY ADDRESS

An Archduke
Styled as: His Royal Highness, Archduke of [relevant title]

Letter Address: Your Royal Highness
Oral Address: Your Royal Highness, and thereafter, Highness

 

An Archduchess
Styled as: Her Royal Highness, Archduchess of [relevant title]

Letter Address: Your Royal Highness
Oral Address: Your Royal Highness, and thereafter, Highness

 

A Sovereign Prince
Styled as: His Princely Highness, Prince of [relevant title]

Letter Address: Your Princely Highness
Oral Address: Your Princely Highness, and thereafter, My Prince

 

A Sovereign Princess
Styled as: Her Princely Highness, Princess of [relevant title]

Letter Address: Your Princely Highness
Oral Address: Your Princely Highness, and thereafter, My Princess

 

A Titular Prince
Styled as: His Highness, Prince of [relevant title]

Letter Address: Your Highness
Oral Address: Your Highness, and thereafter, My Prince

 

DUCAL ADDRESS

A Grand Duke
Styled as: His Grace, Grand Duke of [relevant title]

Letter Address: My Lord Grand Duke
Oral Address: Your Grace, and thereafter, My Lord

 

A Grand Duchess
Styled as: Her Grace, Grand Duchess of [relevant title]

Letter Address: My Lady Grand Duchess
Oral Address: Your Grace, and thereafter, My Lady

 

A Duke
Styled as: His Grace, Duke of [relevant title]

Letter Address: My Lord Duke
Oral Address: Your Grace, and thereafter, My Lord

 

A Duchess
Styled as: Her Grace, Duchess of [relevant title]

Letter Address: My Lady Duchess
Oral Address: Your Grace, and thereafter, My Lady

 

MARGRAVIAL ADDRESS

A Margrave
Styled as: The Most Honorable, Margrave of [relevant title]

Letter Address: My Lord
Oral Address: Your Lordship, and thereafter, My Lord

 

A Margravine
Styled as: The Most Honorable, Margravine of [relevant title]

Letter Address: My Lady
Oral Address: Your Lordship, and thereafter, My Lady

 

COMITAL ADDRESS

A Count
Styled as: The Right Honorable, Count of [relevant title]

Letter Address: My Lord
Oral Address: Your Lordship, and thereafter, My Lord

 

A Countess
Styled as: The Right Honorable, Countess of [relevant title]

Letter Address: My Lady

Oral Address: Your Ladyship, and thereafter, My Lady

 

VISCOMITAL ADDRESS

A Viscount
Styled as: The Honorable, Viscount of [relevant title]

Letter Address: My Lord
Oral Address: Your Lordship, and thereafter, My Lord

 

A Viscountess
Styled as: The Honorable, Viscountess of [relevant title]

Letter Address: My Lady

Oral Address: Your Ladyship, and thereafter, My Lady

 

BARONIAL ADDRESS

A Baron
Styled as: His Lordship, Baron of [relevant title]

Letter Address: My Lord
Oral Address: Your Lordship, and thereafter, My Lord

 

A Baroness
Styled as: Her Ladyship, Baroness of [relevant title]

Letter Address: My Lady

Oral Address: Your Ladyship, and thereafter, My Lady

 

LESSER AND COMMON ADDRESS

A Baronet
Styled as: The Baronet of [relevant title]

Letter Address: Sir

Oral Address: Sir, and thereafter, Sir

 

A Baronetess
Styled as: The Baronetess of [relevant title]

Letter Address: Dame

Oral Address: Dame, and thereafter, Madam

 

A Knight
Styled as: Sir

Letter Address: Sir

Oral Address: Sir, and thereafter, Sir

 

A Dame
Styled as: Dame

Letter Address: Dame

Oral Address: Dame, and thereafter, Madam

 

An Official
Styled as: His Excellency

Letter Address: Your Excellency
Oral Address: Your Excellency, and thereafter, Sir/Madam

 

CLERICAL ADDRESS

The High Pontiff
Styled as: His Holiness, the High Pontifex 

Letter Address: Your Holiness
Oral Address: Your Holiness, and thereafter, Holy Father

 

A Cardinal
Styled as: His Eminence, Cardinal [name]

Letter Address: Your Eminence
Oral Address: Your Eminence, and thereafter, Eminence

 

An Archbishop
Styled as: The Most Reverend, Archbishop of [archdiocese]

Letter Address: The Most Reverend
Oral Address: Your Excellency, and thereafter, Excellency

 

A Bishop
Styled as: The Right Reverend, Bishop of [diocese]

Letter Address: The Right Reverend
Oral Address: Your Excellency, and thereafter, Excellency

 

A Priest
Styled as: Father [name]

Letter Address: Father
Oral Address: Father, and thereafter, Father
 

A Priestess
Styled as: Mother [name]

Letter Address: Mother
Oral Address: Mother, and thereafter, Mother
 

An Abbot or Abbess
Styled as: The Reverend, Abbot, Abbess of [monastery, abbey]

Letter Address: The Reverend
Oral Address: Reverend Father, Reverend Mother, and thereafter, Abbot, Abbess

 

A Monk or Nun
Styled as: Brother, Sister

Letter Address: Brother, Sister
Oral Address: Brother, Sister, and thereafter, Brother, Sister
 

Page 3

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𝕀𝕀𝕀. THE IMPERIAL FAMILY

 

Page 4

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𝕀𝕍. ETIQUETTE

IMPERIAL ETIQUETTE
A compendium of the expected etiquette of all Imperial citizens, lordly or otherwise.

 

𝕀. ON INTRODUCTION & GREETINGS

✷ . . . As is within the Imperial Court

✠ One must always offer greeting befitting both one’s own station and that of the other. Any err in initial address is to be regarded as a slight..

✠ Should a man greet a woman of equal or higher station, he shall bow with one foot forward from the waist and incline his head three-quarters on the way down. Should the lady offer her hand in turn, he may kiss it lightly, but never presume to grasp it unbidden.

✠ Should a woman greet a man of equal or higher station, she shall rest a foot behind the other as to perform a curtsy whilst averting direct eye contact, awaiting any gesture that might permit further conversation.

✠ Should a man greet another man of equal station, he shall offer a simple nod of his head toward him with acknowledgement of the other’s status.

✠ Should a man greet another man of higher station, he shall bow as stated previously, and speak only when invited to, deferring to the other’s word and gesture.

✠ Should a woman greet another woman of equal station, she shall offer a simple nod of her head toward her with acknowledgement of the other’s status.

✠ Should a woman greet another woman of higher station, she shall curtsy as stated previously, and speak only when invited to, deferring to the other’s word and gesture.

✠ It is expected that a woman of high-station would never grasp her skirts when curtsying, as it is expected a man of high-station would never need rely on resting an arm at his core when bowing. It is often admired from a lord or lady who might showcase their skills in dance with a flourish of their arms.

✠ All lowborn are expected to give proper due when greeting by performing full displays of deep bows and full curtsies.

✠ Any lapse of formality and greeting by a member of a Lord’s retinue is a direct reflection upon such Lord and their failings to uphold due etiquette within Our court.

 

𝕀𝕀. ON PUBLIC EXPECTATIONS

✷ . . . As is within the Imperial Court

✠ All subjects of the Realm shall conduct themselves with dignity, restraint, and piety in public, that the honor of Our court be upheld.

✠ All subjects are expected to uphold and defend the honor of Their Imperial Majesties, the Empire, and our Holy Mother Church, lest dishonor be brought swiftly upon them.

✠ One may always be permitted to publicly correct any person who does not adhere to the rules and stylings of Our court, unless they be of a higher station.

✠ One shall keep one’s person clean and attire in good repair. Any lapse in appearance shall be expected to be met with ejection from Our court.

✠ One must never levy vulgar or distasteful speech in public, especially not in the presence of Their Imperial Majesties, lest they wish to lose a tongue.

✠ One must always offer cordiality and courtesy to all official envoys and guests of the Imperial Crown.

✠ One must take their leave of absence when in poor health, for spreading a sickness, intended or not, would be a grave slight upon the Lords of Our court.

 

𝕀𝕀𝕀. ON RANK & STATION

✷ . . . As is within the Imperial Court

✠ All subjects shall know their place within the Imperial Court and bear themselves accordingly, and display the honors, insignia, and privileges proper to their rank, never claiming more than is their due.

✠ One should not presume to speak or stand before a peer of higher station unless first summoned or acknowledged.

✠ One must acknowledge rank first over other nominal identifiers, such as age or gender. Such that a young Lord of higher station would always take precedence over an aged Lord of lower station.

✠ Lords of equal station shall assume precedence based on offices held in service unto the Crown, but should neither lord hold an appointed office, then precedence shall be given to the more senior house.

✠ One should not presume to speak or stand before a peer of higher station unless first summoned or acknowledged.

✠ One should not presume to sit in the presence of a peer of higher station unless invited or commanded to do so.

✠ One must never address a peer of higher or equal station in terms suited for the comforts of private company, nor by given name alone, unless kin by blood or bound by law
✠ One of lower station must always yield passage in halls, chambers, or rooms with an accompanied bow or curtsy out of due respect.

 

𝕀𝕍. ON IMPERIAL PRESENCE

✷ . . . As is within the Imperial Court

✠ One must acknowledge and offer due tribute to Their Imperial Majesties with a curtsy or bow when entering or being graced by their presence. Men might briefly remove their hats when bowing.

✠ One must never turn their back to Their Imperial Majesties, always retreat by taking careful steps backward to one’s former place.

✠ One must avert their gaze should Their Imperial Majesties choose to speak in confidence or withdraw from open audience as it is discourteous to behold the Imperial countenance unbidden.

✠ One must never refer to members of the Imperial Family by their first names unless in a private setting or a member of said family.

✠ One may not speak in the presence of Their Imperial Majesties unless acknowledged or invited to, if the matter is urgent one might ask permission with the phrase, “Your Imperial Majesty, if I may…” or “Your Imperial Majesty, might I approach…?”
✠ One must never raise one’s voice above that of Their Imperial Majesties, nor speak over or interrupt them in any manner.

✠ One may not take their leave of the Imperial presence unless dismissed, if the matter is urgent one might ask permission with the phrase, “Your Imperial Majesty, might I take leave...?"

✠ One must remain standing in the presence of Their Imperial Majesties unless given permission to sit. Exceptions may be given to the elderly.

✠ One must not seat themselves higher than Their Imperial Majesties, nor stand upon any dais or step that would render them so.

✠ One must remain ungloved when offering tribute, petitions, or gifts, that the sincerity of one’s hands be laid bare before the Throne.

✠ One must never attempt to touch a member of the Imperial Family or draw sword in their presence whilst not a member of the Imperial Retinue, unless they intend to forfeit one’s own hand, or their life.
 

Page 5

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𝕍. FASHION

IMPERIAL FASHION

A compendium of the expected adherence to fashion for all Imperial Citizens.

 

𝕀. ON HAIR & HEADWEAR

✷ . . . As is within the Imperial Court

✠ All exposed hair is expected to be well-groomed and maintained, as cleanliness is next to Godliness.

✠ Whilst it is expected to see the full length of a young woman’s hair, as it is traditionally so rarely ever cut, young women’s hair should be pinned up when in the presence of the court.

✠ Whilst lower cuts are often popular amongst the men of the Imperial Army and those familiar with war, it is normal to see young men sport hair at shoulder length, showing their juvenile standing within the court.

✠ The married, widowed, and elderly are expected to cover their heads with hats, veils, and other sorts of approved head coverings of their respective standing.

✠ For men, it is expected to remove one’s hat whilst in a place of worship and in the Imperial’s direct presence.

✠ To display one’s balding hair is considered impolite and is best shaved bald in the spotting area.

 

𝕀𝕀. ON FACIAL GROOMING

✷ . . . As is within the Imperial Court

✠ Men, unmarried or under the age of thirty, are expected to be cleanly shaven.

✠ Married men, or those of the above seniority, are allowed to wear beards only if connected by the burnsides. If one is unable to grow a beard in full, it is rather expected to wear a moustache instead. Either style must be well-maintained at court.

✠ It is considered unsanitary to let their beard grow longer than two inches off the face.

✠ Women and Men should maintain a forehead length of no more than four fingers. 

✠ Whilst powdered rouges and lip tint are customary, it is considered gauche to wear a full face of makeup or to lighten one’s complexion.

 

𝕀𝕀𝕀. ON JEWELS & ADORNMENTS

✷ . . . As is within the Imperial Court
✠ Closed Crowns are reserved for Their Imperial Majesties and foreign Royalty.

✠ Open Crowns and Coronets are reserved for those with the title of Kingdom or Archduchy, respectively.
✠  Diadems and Tiaras are reserved for the direct Imperial Family and the direct Household of Royal Families under the Empire.

✠ Circlets are reserved for the Imperial Family, the direct Household of Royal Families, and titular Princes.

✠ Those of any noble standing might wear fillets.

✠ All crown regalia worn by men are strictly forbade in the presence of Their Imperial Majesties, unless given express permission or of a foreign body.

✠ The Lorraine is one's best accessory and often seen either around one’s neck or upon one's belt.

✠ Necklaces, rings, bracelets, and brooches are generally worn among the nobility, though lowborn people are not necessarily prohibited from donning them.
✠ If a person is wed, they are expected to maintain a keepsake of their spouse on them at all times. Such things can include rings, locks of hair in an amulet, bracelets and the like. 

✠ It is considered distasteful to adorn your body with piercings of any kind, including rings that adorn the ears.

 

𝕀𝕍. ON ARMOR & WEAPONS

✷ . . . As is within the Imperial Court

✠ Whilst wearing armor in court is not prohibited, and rather respected, those donning the plate must keep their face free of any obstruction unless there are a member of the Imperial Army.

✠ When worn in court, one must make sure to keep their armor clean and undented.

✠ One’s sword must be sheathed at all times, unless a member of the Imperial Army.

✠ All ranged weapons are forbade from Court, unless a member of the Imperial Army.

✠ Drawing one’s sword, or weapon of choice, in the presence of Their Imperial Majesties would be seen as treasonous unless in defense of Their Imperial Presence.

✠ Armor trimmed, gilded, or smithed with gold is strictly forbidden unless a member of the Imperial Army.

✠ Sashes over armor are reserved only for recognised Lords of the Empire and those with the assent of HIM and must be in a shade differing from Burgundy or Tiberian purple.

✠ Those under the age of fourteen are forbade from carrying a pointed weapon any longer than six inches.

 

𝕍. ON TEXTILES

✷ . . . As is within the Imperial Court

✠ The use of textiles in the shades of Burgundy or Tiberian Purple is forbidden unless a member of the Imperial Family or those in direct service to the Imperial Household

✠ All clothing in shades of black are only to be worn in times of mourning, to wear such otherwise would be considered rude to the families of the recently parted.

✠ Trim of golden thread or in shades imitating the metal are reserved for the Lordly Households.

✠ The color of true red is reserved for Lordly Households.

✠ Ermine and Sable are reserved for the direct households of Princely, Royal, and Imperial families.

✠ Those of common birth are prohibited from wearing silk, satin, and velvet.

✠ The mixing of silver and gold on fabric is prohibited.

✠ The shades of purple and black may not be quartered together in any fashion unless worn by the Imperial Family.

Spoiler

 

𝕍𝕀. ON MEN’S FASHION

✷ . . . As is within the Imperial Court

✠ Men’s fashion begins with a simple shift of plain linen, such is expected of a man of good hygiene.

✠ Men should never be seen shirtless in public. 

✠ On top of the shift, a man might traditionally wear a tunic or a kirtle, that falls to the knees, variations might depend on the region.

✠ A man’s tunic or houppelande may not exceed in length of four inches above the ankle and must be longer than at least twelve inches below the waist.

✠ Men’s fashion - much like women’s, may show patterns.

✠ Arms and shoulders are expected to be covered.

✠ Men might often wear Hoses of particularly striking colors as a fashionable statement.

✠ Men might wear capes or long covers but such are expected to reach the ground or hover a maximum of six inches above.
✠ Men may wear wear all different kinds of footwear; boots, poulaines, ankle boots, … though it is forbidden to wear something open-footed.

 

𝕍𝕀𝕀. ON WOMEN’S FASHION

✷ . . . As is within the Imperial Court

✠ Women’s fashion begins with a simple shift of plain linen, such is expected of a woman of good hygiene.
✠ To keep their legs warm, women wear stockings and shoes made of sturdy leather. 

✠ A shoe should be practical above all. It is considered vain to wear tall heels.

✠ Above the shift, a woman traditionally wears a kirtle or a tunic, which may be embellished or plain.

✠ Alternatively, some women opt to wear a cotehardie over their shift.
✠ Over the kirtle, a woman may opt to wear a surcoat, which is a
✠ Instead of a surcoat, some women prefer wearing a houppelande or a herigaut.

✠ Dresses are expected to reach the ankles.

✠ Arms and shoulders are expected to be covered.

✠ Sleeves may be worn long. Some women opt to have their sleeves long enough to almost touch the floor.

✠ During winter months, women can be seen wearing fur coats or thick cloaks over their gowns.

✠ During court, noble ladies are expected to represent their House, so it is not uncommon to see women wearing their houses coat of arms embroidered into their gowns.
 

Page 6

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𝕍𝕀. AFTERWORD

THE IMPERIAL THEODOSIAN COURT

 

BY THE GRACE OF THEIR IMPERIAL MAJESTIES,

Let all who have read this compendium now be moved to action, for the Imperial Court is not a static monument but a living body. All Lords and Ladies, as well as those recognized by Our Court, are invited to send letters of intent or inquiry to the Lord Chamberlain, should they wish to serve, become a ward, or otherwise join the workings of Our esteemed assembly.

Let it also be remembered: this compendium is not a mere ornament, but the very foundation of Courtly order. Study it well, for in its pages are laid the standards by which all conduct, address, and ceremonial life shall be measured. From the tallest Lord to the shortest man, any lapse of expectations is no longer to be hidden under the guise of ignorance.

As the Imperial Theodosian Court stands as the center of unity and culture in Our Empire, it is imperative each citizen holds fast to the honor the sanctity of its demands, lest we lose what separates man from all else. 

H V M A N I T A S   I N V I C T A !

Page 7

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H V M A N I T A S    I N V I C T A

“Für Gott und Kaiser,”

 

HIS IMPERIAL MAJESTY, Tiberias I of the House Horen, by the Grace of GOD, 

Emperor of Man, Holy Imperator, King of Burgundy, Seventis, Salvus, Renatus & Oren, 

Duke of Middelan, Helena, Lorraine, Sunholdt and Reutov, Baron of Pestilles,

Protector of Grense, Protector of the Heartlanders,

Patriarch of House Horen & the Tiberian Dynasty,

Captain-General of the Church, Defender of the Faith.

 

HER IMPERIAL MAJESTY, Circe of the House Horen, by the Grace of GOD, 

Empress of Man, Queen of Burgundy, Seventis, Salvus, Renatus & Oren, 

Duchess of Middelan, Helena, Lorraine, Sunholdt and Reutov, Baroness of Pestilles, Lady of Marine.

 

BVRGVNDIA IMPVRIVM

 

HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, Edward of the House Alstion, Lord Chamberlain,

Prince of Alstion, Archduke of Alba, Duke of Balamena, Count of Enswerp and Thesmer,

Baron of Placentia, Lord of Elizabeth, Defender of the Godwinites, Protector of the Franklands,

Patriarch of the Johannian Dynasty, etcetera.

[Xtessisold222 484]

Good man eros thx 4 pages and counting

 

[Cheese 8881]

Spoiler

This is the most beautiful thing i've ever seen in my life

 

[Crevel 7557]

Father Martin, a Reinmaren clergyman, reads through the entire compendium offhandedly in Alba after publishing his treatise on unity among the faithful. With each etiquette standard he read that seemed to trample on the commonfolk, he groaned and exhaled deep sighs before prompting him to make an outward aversion to himself in utterance about the very restrictive standard, "God does not care about this... for any of this... all are equal before Him. All this will do is cause a divide between the faithful." he shakes his head, knowing that his input will likely have no difference in the Empire's social class division.

[Kabaffahp 566]

Spoiler

This is amazing, Eros! Love all the details and it's really helpful, especially that page about how to refer to people because I'm always struggling with that. 😂😂

 

[clearlynoko 201]

Adonis Rovare, of Stirland, reads the notice with some confusion. He then puts four fingers to his forehead... safe. God forbid he balds at thirteen....

[Flynnigan 267]

"...and don't forget!" said the little girl dramatically to her cousin Diego. Inti held the scroll open, drawling out the words in an over-the-top accent as her cousin rolled along the floor, laughing loudly. "This is SERIOUS!" she cried. "Don't you get it! You can't WEAR purple, it's OUR color!" Inti gasped dramatically, before continuing. "If you don't follow our rules, oh, my!" Inti fanned herself dramatically, tilting back her head. Diego continued to cackle on the floor, barely able to breathe. 

 

With a dramatic gasp, Inti pointed to him. "Oh, my good sir! Is that an ANKLE I see?! This simply won't do! You have DISHONORED the court!" she exclaimed, shaking her head, the two children continuing to mock the, in their eyes, absurd dress code.

[resurectionist 138]

1 minute ago, Flynnigan said:

"...and don't forget!" said the little girl dramatically to her cousin Diego. Inti held the scroll open, drawling out the words in an over-the-top accent as her cousin rolled along the floor, laughing loudly. "This is SERIOUS!" she cried. "Don't you get it! You can't WEAR purple, it's OUR color!" Inti gasped dramatically, before continuing. "If you don't follow our rules, oh, my!" Inti fanned herself dramatically, tilting back her head. Diego continued to cackle on the floor, barely able to breathe. 

 

With a dramatic gasp, Inti pointed to him. "Oh, my good sir! Is that an ANKLE I see?! This simply won't do! You have DISHONORED the court!" she exclaimed, shaking her head, the two children continuing to mock the, in their eyes, absurd dress code.

"Mija, stop making fun and stand still. Every time you complain I add a ruffle." She consulted the endless list of rules, adding a few changes to the apparently very strict court dresses her girls would need.