IMPERIAL SUMMONS TO THE HEIRS

[Eryane 3698]

As penned by 

Lady Aliénor de Bruges

Anno Domini, 8th of Sun's Smile, 2041

 

 

 

 

 

he Imperial Theodosian Court calls on the lords and ladies of the empire—the heirs of our common future—to embrace the duty of tending to the empire’s cultivation. This summons to the imperial court will stand as a testament to the empire’s storied past and vibrant, multicultural present. This grand celebration of imperial unity seeks to honor the rich culture of each vassal and house, while showcasing the enduring cohesion of the empire through a series of extraordinary events. These spectacles are not meant to be merely displays of pageantry and extravagancy, but profound expressions of what it means to partake in the imperial identity.

 

Beyond its celebration of unity through multiculturalism, this summons also stands as a distinguished rite of passage for the empire’s noble youth, offering a formal introduction into the imperial court and the imperial society at large. Young men and women make their societal debut amid the splendor of these festivities.

 

In the last saint’s year, the Imperial Theodosian Court and vassals across the empire have come together to present the itinerary attached here, with events set to occur across the empire. Inquiries about hosting an event may be sent to Lady Aliénor de Bruges (Eryane) or HSH Rosceline de Rouen, Princess of Savoy, Archduchess of Drusco (@amyselia).

 

Lords and ladies of noble birth who will be between the ages of 15 and 25 in the year 2042 are especially invited to take part in the grand opening ceremony of these imperial festivities as the debutants of the season (which, to note, is for all lords and ladies meeting the aforementioned requirements). This occasion will present the empire’s debutants—both young men and women—in a ceremony honoring the unique cultural heritage, traditions, and values of each noble house that wishes to partake. These debuting lords and ladies will be collectively judged by the organizing committee for diligence, temperance, and compassion whilst simultaneously representing their families. At the concluding ball, the Grand Ball of Man, three debutants shall be selected as exemplars of these virtues and awarded one of the following gifts as a testament to their representation of the virtue: a pair of finely-made leather gloves representing St. Catherine of Felsen (compassion), a golden hummingbird representing St. Thomas of Ager (diligence), and a golden crow representing St. Charles of Petrus (temperance).

 

The events are open for all to attend, although debuting is reserved for those of noble birth within the age of 15 to 25 (in 2042). For those wishing to debut, please fill out the attached form. 

 

 

Spoiler

DEBUTANT FORM: here. Thank you @Cubicitafor making it!

 

Join the Imperial Theodosian Court discord here

 

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he following events comprise the contents of this summons, calling forth the future of our empire to gather and partake in celebrations that showcase the collective richness of our shared heritage. Those who are interested in hosting an additional event are strongly encouraged to do so, and may contact Lady Aliénor de Bruges to have their event added to the itinerary. If you are interested in hosting another pre-debut event in the saint’s days prior (for example, like the etiquette lesson below), please also contact the event organizing committee. 

 

 

THE MONTH OF TOBIAS’S BOUNTY

ETIQUETTE AND SOCIAL DEBUT LESSON | Saturday, August 16, 3pm EST | Imperial Palace, Throne Room 

Prior to the Ceremony of Social Debut, those seeking to debut are offered lessons by the Imperial Court to prepare in advance. The leading courtiers organizing the ceremony will not only review how the presentation will take place, but how to behave throughout the entirety of the ensuing festivities in accordance with the etiquette of the Imperial Theodosian Court. HSH Madelief of Blackvale, Princess of Myrine (@kuerbis), Lady Aliénor de Bruges, and TRH Lady Helaine of Aldersberg, the Countess of Dover (@Cubicita). Others are welcome to spectate the lesson, although only those who are participating in the event later that saint’s day are allowed to partake—as this event is specifically curated to ensure they are prepared for the upcoming ceremony. 

 

CEREMONY OF SOCIAL DEBUT | Saturday, August 16, 4:30pm EST | Imperial Palace, Throne Room 

The Ceremony will begin with a prayer for all in attendance, marking the official opening of this summons. Debutants are strongly encouraged to don traditional attire of their house and/or their house colors. The proceedings shall then commence as follows, as the debutants are presented before the Imperial Theodosian Court, before the eyes of HIH Princess Elizabeth of Alba, Duchess of Grense (@brujera):

I. All debutants must arrive 20 saint’s minutes prior to the ceremony to be organized in the order they will be called upon, and to address any final questions they may have to the event organizers. They will then be properly arranged by official order of precedence within the empire. Last minute arrival will be noted.

II. Debuting lords and ladies will be presented alongside their noble house, following the official order of precedence within the empire. Each house will be called forth by a designated imperial herald. Only once their name has been announced may the house approach the dais, and no earlier.

III. The titled lord and lady of the house are requested to accompany their debutants. During the presentation, the family representative shall introduce the debutants in a manner similar to the following: “Your Imperial Highness, I present to you mine nieces the ladies Julia and Henriqua, of sixteen and fifteen summers.”

IV. After each presentation, HIH Princess Elizabeth of Alba may pose questions to the debutants regarding their interests, achievements, and contributions to the empire. Debutants must remain at the dais until formally dismissed by Her Imperial Highness.

 

 

THE OPENING BALL | Saturday, August 16, 7:00pm EST | Imperial Palace Gardens

The Opening Ball will commence immediately following the conclusion of the Ceremony of Social Debut. Upon entry, each guest will receive a card bearing the image of a Prophet, Saint, Blessed, or Venerable. Once all cards have been distributed, guests must seek out the individual holding the matching card. This person shall be their partner for the opening dance. Once every pair has been united, the first dance shall begin. Thereafter, the floor will be open for general dancing throughout the evening, unless guests request a reshuffling of the cards and a second round of randomly assigned partners.

 

 

THE MONTH OF SUN’S SMILE

ARTISTS’ EVENING IN RETHEL | Sunday, August 17, 7:00pm EST | Barony of Rethel

In the Barony of Rethel, hosted by Her Ladyship, Dame Lorelei Enswerp (@annanicole__), all subjects of the empire are cordially invited to partake in a tranquil evening of artistic creation. Though the title may suggest otherwise, this gathering warmly welcomes any and all with a passion for painting. Attendees, upon the event’s commencement, must find a partner to paint. Within the framework of the evening’s proceedings, and by the Baroness’s decree, each pair shall embark upon the unique challenge of painting one another’s likeness. 

 

 

THE MONTH OF HARREN’S FOLLEY

KONSTADT GRAND BRAWL | Monday, August 18, 3:00pm EST | Konstadt, Margraviate of Schwyz

Hosted by the House of Augusten and led by TH Sigismund Leon von Augusten, Viscount of Azor and Heir to the Margraviate of Schwyz (@Cycloth_), this contest shall be held in celebration of their proud Waldenian heritage. Warriors from across the Empire are invited to gather within the stone-clad arena of Konstadt for a trial of strength, skill, and endurance [PVP]. The champion shall be awarded a purse of 200 minae, and their name shall be inscribed among the honored record of past victors. After the contest, all will be invited to the Feast hall to enjoy traditional Waldenian dishes and fine refreshments.

 

BANQUET OF ASHFORD SAINTS | Monday, August 18, 6:00pm EST | Imperial Palace 

Hosted by the Archduchy of Drusco and led by HH Princess Rosceline de Rouen, Archduchess of Rouen (@amyselia), this banquet is held in honor of all canonized, beatified, and venerable figures of the Holy Church. Several Saints will have devoted altars throughout the banquet hall, where attendees of the banquet are requested to place an offering of their own cultural foods before a Saint’s altar. The evening will be filled with fine drink and an abundant feast for all to revel in and enjoy with merriment.

 

 

THE MONTH OF SIGISMUND’S END

MYRINE ICE FISHING | Tuesday, August 19, 3:00pm EST | Principality of Myrine

Those daring enough to come near the Mountain are welcomed to the ice-covered lands of Myrine for a day of dancing upon a lake of ice by the invitation of Lady Circe of Myrine (@zuziee). Guests are encouraged to bring their own fishing rods to take part in this traditional Mareno Fishing Competition of a spirited contest of skill and luck, with mina awarded to the most successful anglers.

 

PETALS AND PROMENADE | Tuesday, August 19, 7:00pm EST | Imperial Palace Gardens 

Petals and Promenade shall be a garden party held within the imperial palace gardens, graciously hosted by Lady Helaine Aldersberg, Countess of Dover. Guests will enjoy a selection of fine teas and delicate refreshments, complemented by games of croquet. One-on-one promenades are warmly encouraged, offering an opportunity for more private conversation among new and longstanding friends and acquaintances, as one strolls through the exquisite imperial gardens—decorated for the occasion.

 

 

THE MONTH OF HOREN’S CALLING

OBNOVYN DJEN FESTIVAL | August 20, 6:00pm EST | The Barony of Silasia 

Obnovyn Djen, or Day of Renewal, shall be hosted by the Barony of Silasia as a day devoted to the renewal of spirit, fellowship, and cultural identity. Rooted in the Silasian belief that true strength comes from harmony with the land, the festival offers guests a glimpse into the heart of Silasia through shared meals, artisan displays, and interactive traditions. This event will be led by the hostess Lady Nuvilta Svajonė Whitewood (@Dramatude ).

 

 

THE MONTH OF OWYN’S FLAME

LESSONS OF ST. JULIA - DUTIES OF A STEADFAST NOBLE MOTHER  | August 21, 7:00pm EST | Imperial Palace Gardens
Join HSH Rosceline de Rouen in the imperial palace gardens over fine wine and other refreshments, where Lady Rosceline will offer insight into the duties and expectations of a consort. Attendees are encouraged to engage in thoughtful conversation, pose questions regarding Lady Rosceline’s own experiences, and seek her guidance on matters of courtly life and the duty of a consort.

 

 

THE MONTH OF GODFREY’S TRIUMPH

THE GRAND BALL OF MAN | August 22, 5pm EST | Imperial Throne Room & Palace Gardens

Upon arriving, all attendees will be granted a dance card. However, the final ball concluding the festivities shall begin again on a prayer. All debutants will gather before the dais, where the organizing committee shall name the three debutants—among all the lords and ladies—as the embodiment of one of the following: diligence, temperance, and compassion. The finely crafted symbols of each of these virtues will be bestowed upon the three individuals respectively. 

 

After the trio depicting these virtues is presented to the court, the ball shall commence. A brief period to enjoy wine and drink shall first ensue, where men and women must find 3 dance partners to fill out their cards. When the music begins, the pairs must find one another with haste, and prepare to start their first waltz. 

 

Meanwhile, guests are encouraged to enjoy a promenade in the imperial gardens, where a painter will be available for friends, dance partners, and couples alike. Performers who would like to showcase their talents are encouraged to contact Lady Aliénor to perform during the ball.

 

Spoiler

For ease of access, please see the following spreadsheet with the itinerary: Imperial Summons of 2042-43, Itinerary

 

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M E M B E R S

o f   t h e

O R G A N I Z I N G   C O M M I T T E E

he following individuals are charged with the assessment of the debuting individuals and collectively discussing the diligence, compassion, and/or temperance of debuting lords and ladies. For any questions or concerns throughout the event proceedings, please seek these individuals out.

 

ORGANIZING COMMITTEE LEADS

HSH Rosceline de Rouen, Princess-consort of Savoy, Archduchess of Drusco (@amyselia)

Lady Aliénor de Bruges (@Eryane)

 

ORGANIZING COMMITTEE MEMBERS

HIH Princess Elizabeth of Alba, Duchess consort of Grense (@brujera)

HIH Princess Marcella of Man, Duchess of Lorraine (@Rainalyn)

HRH Prince Edward I, Lord Chamberlain, Prince of Alstion, Archduke of Alba (@ErosTea)

HRH Princess Cecily I, Arbiter-Draconis, Princess of Alstion, Archduchess of Alba (@Axelu)

HSH Princess Madelief of Blackvale, Princess-consort of Myrine (@kuerbis)

TRH Lady Helaine Aldersberg, Countess of Dover (@Cubicita)

Lady Devana of Metterden (@Mady)

 

 

Spoiler

massive thank you to all of the people above for contributing all their ideas for this event, as well as @FireAGN @Dramatude@zuziee @Cycloth_ & @annanicole__:) 

 

format largely inspired by @Ivoreyy's social season posts

 

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Edited August 11, 2025 by Eryane