Eryane

A Haeseni Queen of a time long ago ponders the reoccurring sadness endured by the ill-fated Barbanov princesses, destined for misfortune from birth. It seemed to be an endless cycle, as she watched on from the seven skies in sorrow.

“My, do I feel old,” commented Empress Anastasia I as she received an invitation to the wedding of her flower girl from all those years ago. A relief seemed to wash over her as she recognized the name of the groom then, for no one but the best should be wed to such a sweet girl. “You’re quite lucky with this one!” she shouted to the Archchancellor, whose office was close by. @Taketheshot

“Get yourself together, boy!” shouted an old lady, who was severely depressed without having a watermelon to talk to.

In passing, word reached the empress of the priestess’s death. Although at first unaware of the full content of the situation, she later pressed for further information. It might have been surprising to many, given the priestess’s public protests against the excommunicated monarchs and shouts to see them overthrown, but Anastasia mourned in her private chambers - as she reflected over a woman dedicated to her faith. Perhaps in another time, another place, they might have been good acquaintances if not given the circumstances of years ago. Ileana was dutiful, faithful, resilient. Anastasia could not help but admire it as she thought of her few interactions with the woman. “We must all fulfill our duties in life. She was only doing hers.”

Empress Anastasia I finds this missive to be the greatest of all she has seen so far, and ventures to tell her children so she may purchase hats for them.

factual.

Empress Anastasia I laughs as she sees this proclamation and continues on with her day. "Anyways," she begins, and proceeds with the meeting she had been having prior to it having been disrupted by the missive given to her by a courier. “Our work shall continue as always.”

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE HIGH PONTIFF To His Holiness, High Pontiff Everard VI, Political meddling has never been a worthwhile venture for previous Pontiffs. What came of Darfey, who colluded with pagan powers against the flock? What came of your namesake, Everard V, who sought to support a claimant against the Renatian Empire, vainly using his office for political gain? Your schemes to divide the Empire having failed, you turn to recruiting its own peers to use against it. Who is this Leopold Alstion that you support, who claims himself as your representative, unseen on the field of battle or alongside the people with those he hopes to dominate over? The Empire stands with the Holy Mother Church. Our faith does not falter in the Church, yet it does in you, Yaromir. You allow for there to be blood spilt between Canonists nations, and when there is a chance for peace following the deaths of thousands of Canonist men and women you attempt to squash such through the promotion of internal conflict. The world asks for peace, and you are the one who holds the key to it yet you would rather throw it away and watch as innocent lives are slaughtered around you. You scheme to place a foreigner on the imperial throne, a man who has only set foot upon our soil to cause havoc amongst our people. When you are asked to reveal evidence of the allegations against the imperial crown, you refuse to show it. Your Cardinals know the truth behind all your lies and attempts to incite chaos. We know of your planned meeting in the Principality of Savoy. We hold no ill will for the Savoyards, who have informed us of this as well - a nation that needs time to heal and grow rather than to be used akin to puppets. The empire shall not falter by your petty schemes. Ave Orenia. A series of letters were attached to the public missive; [!] "It is an honor to write to you, sir. I send this letter in the hopes that you might acquiesce a meeting with me, of a location best for you. My name is Leopold Alstion, and I write on behalf of the High Pontiff. - Signed, Leopold" [!] "The High Pontiff wants to make it known that all men still under the yolk of Oren must relinquish their ties in accordance with the laws surrounding anathema and the lengthy excommunication of your monarch. The location is your choice, we will come unarmed. - Signed, Leopold" SIGNED, HIS IMPERIAL MAJESTY, Philip III, Holy Orenian Emperor, forever August, King of Renatus, Curon, Kaedrin, Salvus, and Seventis, Grand Duke of Ves, Duke of Helena, Novellen, Furnestock, Adria, and Lorraine, Baron of Renzfeld, Protector of the Heartlanders, Orenian Highlanders, and Farfolk, etcetera HER IMPERIAL MAJESTY, Anastasia I, Holy Orenian Empress, forever August, Queen of Renatus, Curon, Kaedrin, Salvus, and Seventis, Grand Duchess of Ves, Duchess of Helena, Novellen, Furnestock, Adria, and Lorraine, Baroness of Renzfeld, Protector of the Heartlanders, Orenian Highlanders, and Farfolk, etcetera HIS IMPERIAL HIGHNESS, Prince John Casimir of Renzfeld HIS IMPERIAL HIGHNESS, Prince George Maximilian, Count of Huntshill HER IMPERIAL HIGHNESS, Princess Amelia Margaret, Secretary of Civil Affairs, Countess of Vanderfall HIS IMPERIAL HIGHNESS, Prince Adrian Novellen-Temesch, Count of Temesch HER IMPERIAL HIGHNESS, Princess Anne Caroline of Oren, Secretary of the Imperial Treasury of State, Duchess of Auvergne, Viscountess-consort of Rivia HIS IMPERIAL HIGHNESS, Prince George Novellen-Aldersberg, Count of Aldersberg HIS SERENE HIGHNESS, Minuvas Melphestaus, Princeps of the Ebonwood HIS IMPERIAL EXCELLENCY, Joseph Ledicort d’Azor, Archchancellor of the Holy Orenian Empire, Duke of Azor HIS IMPERIAL EXCELLENCY, Victor Simon Vasile, Count-consort of Vanderfall, Minister of Intelligence, Secretary of the Campagnois Chapter HIS GRACE, Thomas Andrew Helvets, Duke of Cathalon HIS GRACE, Erik var Ruthern, Duke of Reutov, General of the Imperial State Army, Knight of the Order of the Lion, Colonel of the 1st Regiment THE RIGHT HONORABLE, Erik Othaman, Count of Valles, Knight Commander of the Order of the Lion, Major of the 1st Regiment, Lord-Commissar of the Imperial State Army THE RIGHT HONORABLE, Amadie Marlene Pruvia, Countess of Provins THE RIGHT HONORABLE, Archibald Galbraith, Viscount of Rivia, Duke consort of Auvergne, Major of the 1st and 3rd Brigades, Knight of the Order of the Lion THE RIGHT HONORABLE, Theodosia Illeana O'Rourke, Countess of Halstaig, Steward of New Esbec THE RIGHT HONORABLE, Quinn Darkwood, Viscount of Darkwood, Lieutenant Colonel of the Imperial State Army THE RIGHT HONORABLE, Fyodor Carrion-Tuvyic, Count of Dobrov THE RIGHT HONORABLE, Anastasios Alexios Basrid, Viscount of Susa THE RIGHT HONORABLE, Rev Vuiller, Viscount of Vuillermoz THE HONORABLE, Helena Eleanor Sarkozy-Pompourelia, Baroness of Pompourelia THE HONORABLE, Manfred von Arichsdorf, Baron of Arichsdorf THE HONORABLE, Evangeline Halcourt, Baroness of Artois THE HONORABLE, Otis de Rosius, Baron Rosius THE HONORABLE, Arthur Komnenos, Baron of St. Lothar THE HONORABLE, Leopold Draskovic, Baron Draskovic, Knight of the Order of the Lion THE HONORABLE, Wilhelm Lucius d’Arkent, Baron Carrington THE HONORABLE, Henrik Komnenos, Baron of Westfall

Empress Anastasia I raises a glass of wine in cheers.

EDICT OF PETRA 11th of Godfrey’s Triumph, 1855 I.) PREAMBLE For decades, there has been much debate around the purpose of the ancestral nobility of the Holy Orenian Empire. In return for leal service of an exemplary magnitude, hereditary and titular peerages are regularly bestowed as a reward for loyalty and deeds of great renown. However, a certain stagnancy within the nobility has necessitated a series of reforms. Thus, in consultation with our peers, the Imperial Crown has seen fit to issue a new set of formal guidelines and clarifications regarding the privileges and responsibilities bestowed upon noble families of the realm. II.) PRIVILEGES & RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE NOBILITY In return for their loyalty and service, those families which have been ennobled by the Imperial Crown shall be entitled to a series of extended privileges. I.) The imperial peerage of the Holy Orenian Empire shall be granted the privilege of serving as landlords on behalf of the Crown. Thus, they shall be granted the ability to host tenets on their land and collect taxes therein. i. Plans for construction beyond the primary manor or keep must be submitted to the Home Office for approval. II.) The imperial peerage shall be granted the privilege of building either manors or keeps upon their land, to serve as a seat befitting of their families. i. The construction of all keeps must be approved by the Imperial Crown through the Home Office. ii. Extensive fortresses and military defenses are not to be incorporated into these keeps without the express permission of the Imperial Crown through the War Office. III.) In addition to tax, additional duties and responsibilities may be specifically bestowed upon families of the imperial peerage to take charge of at the behest of the Imperial Crown. i. The nature of this duty is to be decided on an individual basis, pertaining to the strengths of each family and the needs of the Empire, as the Imperial Crown sees fit. ii. The responsibilities entailed by the holding of an imperial peerage may be administrative, material, or ceremonial in nature based on the judgment of the Imperial Crown. III.) THE ADRIATIC COURT In order to administer the affairs of the nobility, the Adriatic Court will be formed to serve as an advisory body for the governance of affairs pertaining to the imperial peerage. I.) Upon the calling into session of the Adriatic Court, the peerage of the Holy Orenian Empire shall be summoned to advise the Imperial Crown on whatever matters it may deem fit. i. Cases of treason, misconduct, or a failure to uphold noble duties within the nobility may be considered by the Adriatic Court. ii. Matters of succession may also be raised by the Imperial Crown before the Adriatic Court in the event of a peerage lacking a rightful inheritor. iii. The Adriatic Court shall possess the ability to pass an Imperial Ban upon a standing peer should the conduct of said peer be deemed as warranting of such. This punishment may entail anything the council deems fit, including the stripping or reallocation of an imperial peerage. iv. This body shall advise the Imperial Crown on matters pertaining to the affairs of the nobility as requested, thus serving as an apparatus to oversee the imperial peerage. II.) The privilege of attendance in the Adriatic Court shall be extended to the entire imperial peerage, without the necessity of being appointed. i. Only peers in good standing who are present at these proceedings shall be granted the right to vote on the matters being discussed at a session of the Adriatic Court. The practice of voting or rendering advice in absentia will only be permitted in certain instances at the express permission of the Imperial Crown. IV.) IMPERIAL CIRCLES In order to promote cooperation among peers of similar cultural and geographical standing, two administrative regions, known as Imperial Circles, shall be created. I.) All peers residing within their respective Imperial Circle are charged with a number of duties to be done in collaboration with the other peers of said Circle. These duties include, but are not limited to: i. The promotion and systemization of a common regional culture. ii. The collective management of a central municipality aside from the private, individual holdings of the various peers. iii. The collaboration in the Imperial Diet and the Adriatic Court in order to present issues and interests pertaining to their respective Imperial Circle before the Crown. II.) One Imperial Vicar from each Imperial Circle shall be appointed by the Imperial Crown on the advice of the peers within said Circle. i. The Imperial Vicar is the primary peer within their Imperial Circle, acting as the intermediary between the Imperial Crown and the Imperial Circle as well as the speaker for all peers within their circle. ii. Imperial Vicar shall be held for life unless resigned from or stripped by the Imperial Crown. iii. Imperial Vicar is not a hereditary position, and upon the death or resignation of the previous Imperial Vicar, a new Imperial Vicar shall be appointed by the Imperial Crown. iv. The Imperial Vicar shall have the final say in matters regarding the governance of the Crown-chartered municipalities within their Circle. III.) Four Imperial Circles will be created from the existing territories of the Empire; i. The Grenz Circle, comprised of the peers residing in the East Grenz and West Grenz regions. ii. The Petra Circle, comprised of the peers residing in the Southern Upper Petra and Lower Petra regions. iii. The Arentania Circle, comprised of peers residing in the Outer Arentania, South Arentania, and Oltremont. iv. The Aregnac Circle, comprised of peers residing in the Northern Upper Petra region. HIS IMPERIAL MAJESTY, Philip III, Holy Orenian Emperor, forever August, King of Renatus, Curon, Kaedrin, Salvus, and Seventis, Grand Duke of Ves, Duke of Helena, Novellen, Furnestock, Adria, and Lorraine, Baron of Renzfeld, Protector of the Heartlanders, Orenian Highlanders, and Farfolk, etcetera HER IMPERIAL MAJESTY, Anastasia I, Holy Orenian Empress, forever August, Queen of Renatus, Curon, Kaedrin, Salvus, and Seventis, Grand Duchess of Ves, Duchess of Helena, Novellen, Furnestock, Adria, and Lorraine, Baroness of Renzfeld, Protector of the Heartlanders, Orenian Highlanders, and Farfolk, etcetera

Anastasia I sobs.

A S T E R C A L I A T H E I M P E R I A L T E M P O R E 1856 - 1857 MONTH OF OWYN’S FLAME Preparation for the Presentation of Debutantes Throughout the months leading up to Astercalia, debutantes and bachelors are encouraged to prepare for the upcoming series of events with their respective families or, for the common born, sponsors. However, a formal preparation and lesson shall be hosted by HIH Princess Amelia of Renzfeld to ready the lady debutantes for the upcoming presentation. Thursday, 20th of January - 7pm EST MONTH OF GODFREY’S TRIUMPH Ceremony of Nobles All nobles are summoned to the imperial throne room by the Emperor and Empress for a private court known as the Ceremony of Nobles on the month of Godfrey’s Triumph; wherein, nobles are asked to bring the full capacity of their household before the imperial crown. Nobles shall present their finest accomplishments of the past years as each noble household presents themselves before the dais in the finest clothing, if not a representation of the family’s traditions and formal attire. Friday, 21st of January - 6pm EST MONTH OF TOBIAS’S BOUNTY Presentation of the Debutantes The Presentation of Debutantes is one of the most important moments within Astercalia. A decades long tradition entailing the showcase of the high standing ladies of our Empire. Each noble family presents their daughters before HIM The Empress and the Aster Council for commentary and approval of their behavior and etiquette. Saturday, 22nd of January - 7pm EST MONTH OF SUN’S SMILE Amadistus; the Amadean Ball As per what is to be tradition of Astercalia, Amadistus is to be hosted amidst the month of Sun’s Smile - one saint’s day following the debutante’s presentation. Peers, consorts, debutantes and bachelors shall be announced upon entrance to the ball at its beginning. It is recommended that all families, including their respective debutantes and bachelors, enter the ball together. Following the commencement of the first ball of this imperial tempore, a brief period of mingling shall begin before the official waltzes. During this time, lady debutantes must have a slip of paper known as a ‘name card’ on hand with 5 open slots, and debuting bachelors may approach varying ladies to ask for a dance. Going down the list, the ladies must then - if accepting the bachelor’s dance - proceed to waltz with those as listed on their card. To identify debutantes, it is encouraged for them to wear a flower in their hair. Other attendees will be lined up with women and men on each side, and step forth into a formal waltz whilst the debutantes and bachelors go through their name card lists for dances. Sunday, 23rd of January - 7pm EST MONTH OF HARREN’S FOLLY Debutante House Calls & Noble Feasts The noble families of the empire are thus given the entire month of Harren’s Folly to host house calls within their own respective lands or within the imperial palace itself (upon request to the Aster Council). It is asked that those who do host house calls do so with the entire family of the debutante present for when a bachelor is to attend, although such is at the behest and decision of each participating family. However, beyond the debuting portion that is Astercalia, it is furthermore encouraged for nobles to host feasts between one another upon invitation. This may be an additional part of house calls, where the debutante and bachelor meet together there, or a separate event. Monday, 24th of January - ALL DAY MONTH OF SIGISMUND’S END The Emperor’s Grand Hunt In customary form, HIM Philip III will host a grant hunt for the lords and ladies to partake in. The event will start in front of the city and horses will be rode to the forest beside Dobrov to partake in the fetching of game. The house who fetches the best catch will receive an honorary trophy from the Emperor and Empress. Tuesday, 25th of January - 8pm EST Events may be hosted from Sigismund’s End ((Tuesday)) to Owyn’s Flame ((Thursday)) upon being arranged with the Aster Council. Upon their official arrangement and confirmation, they shall be promptly added to the Astercalian Calendar. MONTH OF GODFREY’S TRIUMPH Performance of “To the End” [Pending] In the New Providence city theater, all citizenry are welcomed to attend the tragedy known as ‘To The End’, which is a fictitious retelling of the final days of Emperor Philip I, known for his rise to power in the aftermath of the Year of the Four Emperors and the destruction of his capital city, Johannesburg. This play stars Lord Edward Novellen-Aldersberg as Emperor Philip I and Miss Rosemary Gendik as Princess Charlotte of Alstion. Friday, 28th of January - 7pm EST MONTH OF TOBIAS’S BOUNTY Solis et Lunae Masquerade The closing masquerade will feature the theme of the sun and moon, colors relating to each. Oranges, reds, yellow and gold attire will represent the sun and stars. White, blues, grays and silver colors and clothing shall represent the moon. It will announce the pairings who met through Astercalia, as well as the most outstanding noble house that has earned the respect and notice of the monarchs and the Imperial family. Saturday, 29th of January - 6pm EST MONTH OF SUN’S SMILE Grand Tourney of Furnestock A showcase of strength, among all else, is deemed fit and necessary amidst the festivities and ceremonies of Astercalia. The finest imperial soldiers, swordsmen, and knights from each family’s household are to join in a variety of matches against one another to inevitably reveal the champion of the eve, who shall be declared as the Champion of Furnestock. Such a title will be held until the following Astercalia, where the title will be contested once again. At the event itself, debutantes are welcomed to be present in the front seats to be gifted any roses from participants, or to exchange a handkerchief (or to otherwise symbolize a token of their favoritism, or wish for those participating to have good luck) from the debutantes themselves. Sunday, 30th of January - 4pm EST

Empress Anastasia continues to work with peers, alongside her husband, for the relocation of estates after having published an edict that had been long before approved and drafted - too busy to focus on those attempting to sow dissent.

Anastasia had been explained the full meaning behind this by her sister-in-law, who she was now sharing a glass of wine with. @libbybelle

THE EDICT OF SETTLEMENT 13th of Harren’s Folly, 1854 It is the desire of Their Imperial Majesties, acting on the basis of years of cooperation, collaboration and otherwise fraternity with the kharajyr of the Empire, to reserve for them a stake of land of their personal domain with which to settle under the protection of the Crown. This reservation, defined as the Pale of Settlement or simply the Pale in shorthand, shall be established from the time of the proclamation of this decree, the terms of such settlement defined therein with this very resolution. As such, We do resolve... PROVISION I: On the Pale, sovereignty and nationality That the Pale is comprised of a portion of the Plains of Jonah, due north of the city of Providence. That the Pale be defined as a reservation for the kharajyr under the personal protection of Their Imperial Majesties. That the Pale be established as the sovereign territory of the Holy Orenian Empire with the status of a reservation, with specific details of governance established in further provisions of this document. That the kharajyr resident in the Pale be considered Imperial subjects, or in the shorthand Imperials, for all legal intents and purposes, and as such they are to be considered loyal countrymen of the Empire, who are hostile to all her enemies. PROVISION II: On jurisdiction, privileges and terms of settlement That the Pale be outside of the normal jurisdiction of the Holy Orenian Empire for the purposes of courts of judicature, civil government and ecclesiastical parishes, as a personal reservation of property set aside by Their Imperial Majesties. That the Pale be permitted to legislate its own laws in respect to its devolved powers, so long as said laws are compatible with the Imperial Constitution and the terms of this decree, and that in the case of any contradictions between such legislation and this decree, this document shall take precedence. That the Pale’s jurisdiction over criminal and civil offenses extend only to those offenses committed within its territory. That the Pale’s kharajyr residents, in the event that they were to commit criminal or civil offenses outside of the Pale, be subject to the normal jurisdiction of the Empire. That the Pale be permitted to maintain its own policing force as it deems fit, outside of the command of the Imperial State Army, insofar as any combatants of said policing force may be levied by the General Staff or Their Imperial Majesties personally, in defense of the Empire and for other uses against her enemies. That the Pale be free from the ordinary garrison or otherwise presence of a military force with the exception of instances of defense, clear travel through (defined as ‘through’ or ‘across’, for strategic purposes) or an emergency. That the Pale be home only to kharajyr with the exception of those non-kharajyr granted explicit permission to be resident there by its government. PROVISION III: On the government of the Pale That the Pale’s executive personage in question is entitled the Warden of the Pale, who shall serve as the territory’s head of government, judicial authority and the general representative of its kharajyr residents, discharging his duties as a loyal subject of Their Imperial Majesties. PROVISION IV: On devolved and reserved powers That the Pale’s devolved powers, on which their government may enact legislation or otherwise act on within the bounds of their physical jurisdiction, consist of: Agriculture and construction. Courts and judicature, including law enforcement. Education. Health. Religion. That the Empire’s reserved powers, on which the Pale’s government may not enact legislation involving or contradictory to, consist of: Capital offenses (espionage, treason and murder). Foreign affairs as well as terrorism both domestic and external. Trade (exports, imports and tariffs). PROVISION V: On the interpretation of this document That in the case of any provision of this document’s wording being ambiguous or otherwise requiring interpretation, in the case of a dispute, it shall be subject to arbitration by Their Imperial Majesties. IN NOMINE DEI, HIS IMPERIAL MAJESTY, Philip III, Holy Orenian Emperor, forever August, King of Renatus, Curon, Kaedrin, Salvus, and Seventis, Grand Duke of Ves, Duke of Helena, Novellen, Furnestock, Adria, and Lorraine, Baron of Renzfeld, Protector of the Heartlanders, Highlanders, and Farfolk, etcetera HER IMPERIAL MAJESTY, Anastasia I, Holy Orenian Empress, forever August, Queen of Renatus, Curon, Kaedrin, Salvus, and Seventis, Grand Duchess of Ves, Duke of Helena, Novellen, Furnestock, Adria, and Lorraine, Baroness of Renzfeld, Protector of the Heartlanders, Highlanders, and Farfolk, etcetera

A S T E R C A L I A “The Imperial Tempore” In honor of the nobility of the Holy Orenian Empire, thus is Astercalia announced as a year long celebration and showcase of the empire’s peers to be called upon at the behest of the Emperor, Empress, or Princess Imperial. This series of ceremonies and festivities shall be to display the greatness of each individual house upon their own efforts to do so, and simultaneously allowing for the seeking and fulfillment of betrothals and marriages with the ladies’ debutante presentation. Astercalia is a recurring event, defining the very prestige one’s house holds. Contents | I | Astercalia II | Debuting III | Calendar IV | Etiquette I | ASTERCALIA In the interest of illustrating the esteemed noble houses of the empire, furthermore all that encompasses such of high society, Astercalia is a collection of formal events in recurrence at a minimum of six years to a maximum of eight. Whilst these events are subject to change from each tempore, a selection of events (with some as listed below in The Astercalia Calendar) are marked as tradition to the event itself to occur each time. Namely, the most significant being that of the Ceremony of Nobles and the Presentation of the Debutantes, with one showcasing the accomplishments of individual houses and the other introducing young women of the empire into high society. Such is to be assembled at the behest of HIM The Empress or HIH The Princess Imperial, with consideration to the time frame as stated prior. II | DEBUTING Similarly to its predecessor, being that of the Social Season, such an occurrence assembles the young ladies of the empire to debut on regulated schedules. Debutantes must be of nobility and between the ages of sixteen to twenty-four to participate, although women of ages younger or older may partake in the events of Astercalia nevertheless (disregarding that of presenting oneself). Noting that of the tempore’s purpose, debutantes are to don clothing representing their family, be it one’s house colors to traditional garb. Clothing must be in adherence with courtly etiquette and finery. Amidst the presentation, no debutante must speak unless spoken to by the person whom they are presenting themselves before. Debutantes will approach the dais in collections of their families, although given the size of each family and preference of the debutantes, some families may be split into smaller groupings. It is custom that one presents a curtsy, well-practiced and highly refined, upon arrival before the dais in which they are to halt themselves before. On the Common Woman; Sponsorship to Debut Whilst it is seen as a requirement to be of noble birth to debut, exceptions may be made towards those common-born on two accounts; sponsorship or a debuting fee. To achieve sponsorship, one must contact a noble family in request of such, or a member of the imperial family. Each noble house can sponsor a total of two commoners, and each individual imperial family member may sponsor one of their own. However, without sponsorship and a desire to partake, a commoner (with note to the age limitations of debuting) may pay a 50 mina debut fee to participate. Sponsorship must be submitted with a signature, direct letter, or conversation from the peer in question directly to HIM The Empress or HE The Lady Chamberlain. This must be done at most a day prior to the debutantes’ presentation to the Aster Council, as well as those wishing to simply pay the 50 mina debut fee. In summarization; 1. Debutantes must be between the ages of sixteen to twenty-four to partake in debuting. 2. Furthermore, debutantes must be of noble birth with two exceptions for commoners; sponsorship or a debut fee. 3. Noble houses may sponsor at maximum two women; individual members of the imperial family may sponsor one. 4. The debuting fee for commoners without sponsorship is that of 50 mina. All proceedings will be returned to the Imperial State Army. III | THE ASTERCALIA CALENDAR This formal, prestigious occurrence lays groundwork to the very nature and outlook of a noble house; thus, it lacks any informalities that may be seen in events and the like beyond. Etiquette and high respect, moreover one’s mannerisms, play a most vital role in Astercalia, with strictness and relegation on a nobleman or noblewoman’s ability to present themselves proper at its highest. The following events and ceremonies are considered crucial and required for the occurrence of Astercalia, yet events are not limited to such; Ceremony of Nobles Upon the commencement of Astercalia, all nobles are summoned to the imperial throne room by the Emperor and Empress for a private court known as the Ceremony of Nobles; wherein, nobles are asked to bring the full capacity of their household before the imperial crown. Nobles shall present their finest accomplishments of the past years as each noble household presents themselves before the dais in the finest clothing, if not a representation of the family’s traditions and formal attire. Presentation of the Debutantes The decades-old ceremony known as the Presentation of the Debutantes, first drafted and hosted by HIH The Princess Imperial Elizabeth Anne of Oren, is the second occurrence of Astercalia. Women who are presented as lady debutantes must demonstrate imperial mannerisms and class, whilst displaying their household to the fullest extent. This may be done in attire, the colors of a noble peerage, or through the showcasing of heirlooms upon one’s person (reference: Heirlooms in Etiquette portion). Such is a public, ceremonial acceptance into the imperial court whilst allowing a formal demonstration of one’s familial and cultural values. Amadistus; The Amadean Ball In accordance with tradition, a formal ball is to succeed the debutante presentation hosted particularly for those involved (in what was once the Social Season), whether it be later in the eve of that saint’s day or the following. Thus is Amadistus formed, opened to public attendance whilst maintaining honor to the lady debutantes and male debuts and upholding the strict requirements of etiquette therein. It may also be referred to as the Amadean Ball in honor of the late HIH Princess Amadea of Pompourelia. All debutantes will be announced upon entrance, as will peers, consorts, and imperial family. Waltzes done in orderly lines and once in a circle shall be conducted at the behest of the host. Grand Tourney of Furnestock A showcase of strength, among all else, is deemed fit and necessary amidst the festivities and ceremonies of Astercalia. The finest imperial soldiers, swordsmen, and knights from each family’s household are to join in a variety of matches against one another to inevitably reveal the champion of the eve, who shall be declared as the Champion of Furnestock. Such a title will be held until the following Astercalia, where the title will be contested once again. At the event itself, debutantes will be present in the front to be gifted any roses from participants, or to exchange a handkerchief (or to otherwise symbolize a token of their favoritism, or wish for those participating to have good luck) from the debutantes themselves. IV | ETIQUETTE The proper etiquette of Astercalia maintains that of regular mannerisms of the imperial court, yet is regulated and watched to the highest extent by the members of the Aster Council. The following must be noted in months preparing for the event; Tiaras and circlets, although otherwise disallowed, are permitted for all debutantes of peers who obtain heirlooms. Debutantes of peers all below a ducal title may only wear these if approved by the Keeper of the Imperial Crown Jewels. Crowns and diadems are strictly prohibited. Brooches and other headpieces are encouraged among ladies whilst styling one’s hair. The dais must remain unmolested throughout all events, save for those directly invited to join HRM The Empress or HIH The Princess Imperial. Amidst the debutante, lady debutantes must not speak unless spoken to and must present a curtsy before the imperial entourage and Aster Council. Proper addressments must be maintained throughout in introductions and conclusions of conversations. Following, male peers and consorts may be addressed as Lord [TITLE], Lady [TITLE], or simply “my lord.” Female peers and consorts may be addressed as Lady [TITLE], or simply “my lady.” All attendees of Astercalia are recommended to discuss etiquette rules and restrictions with Aster Councilors, and the Mistress of Etiquette.

Empress Anastasia receives news of the fallen Ruthern, having heard his name throughout her childhood from the imperial lands - the house long since split. Although an enemy amidst the siege, she lit a candle nonetheless in the name of House Ruthern.

One of the most hard-working people I have ever met, and you truly deserve your retirement from GM after all that you have done. You've come a long way and it's really cool to see as someone who has known you for so long.

Empress Anastasia marked her calendar and informed all of her children of such a wedding.

“Huh?” Said Empress Anastasia. She tossed the paper aside.

About the palace, on almost every window sill, a faint flicker of a candle illuminated the area about it. Empress Anastasia remained in the cathedral after lighting the last of them, where she prayed for the rest of the evening for a fallen, great man.

THE IMPERIAL HOUSEHOLD BACKGROUND A quick reference guide for the current members of the Imperial household and their correct titles, styles and forms of address, as well as the line of succession. Those with the right to style themselves as members of the Imperial Household are the direct descendants (by 1 generation) and legitimate dynastic siblings of the current regnant Novellen monarch of the Holy Orenian Empire. The title of Prince(ss) may exist outside of the Imperial Household, but is not attained by any outside of the extant monarch’s direct ancestors or descendants. Upon the succession of the throne, the Imperial Household resets and all Princes that do not fit the above requirements become members of the auxiliary households, relinquishing their regal responsibilities unless otherwise stated by the monarch. THE IMPERIAL FAMILY TREE HIM The Emperor HIM The Empress HIH The Princess Imperial HG The Duke of Westmark Lord Franz of Pompourelia Lady Irena of Pompourelia Lady Anastasia of Pompourelia Lady Laurentina of Pompourelia HIH The Prince of Providence HIH Princess Victoria of Oren HIH Prince James of Oren HIH Princess Anna of Oren HIH Prince Frederick of Oren HIH Princess Lorena of Oren HIH Prince John of Renzfeld HIH The Count of Huntshill HIH The Countess of Huntshill Lady Annabelle of Huntshill Lady Catherine of Huntshill Lord John of Huntshill HIH The Countess of Vanderfall Lady Margaret of Vanderfall Lord Joseph of Vanderfall Lord Marcel of Vanderfall Lady Victoria of Vanderfall HIH Princess Christina of Renzfeld THE IMPERIAL HOUSES “The Imperial Houses'' refer to the households of the children and siblings of the reigning Holy Orenian Emperor. They are to extend no further than the nieces and nephews of HIM The Emperor, except in the case of direct Imperial succession to a different line. As such, this list includes the households of the Count of Renzfeld and the Prince of Crestfall. In the cases of the marriages of Imperial Princesses (who are not children or siblings to the reigning Emperor) to peers of the realm or foreign nobility, they are to be excluded from the ‘Imperial Houses’ list. THE HOUSE OF NOVELLEN HIM The Emperor Philip Amadeus His Imperial Majesty Philip III, Holy Orenian Emperor Born in 1815 to HIH Prince Philip Aurelian, Count of Renzfeld & HIH Princess Amadea of Pompourelia @Nectorist R. 1849 – present HIM The Empress Anastasya Victoria Helen Her Imperial Majesty Anastasia I, Holy Orenian Empress Born in 1818 to Princess Helen of Crestfall & TH Lord Viktor Ruthern @Eryane T. 1849 – 1852 R. 1852 – present HIH The Princess Imperial Catherine Anastasia Sophia Her Imperial Highness Princess Catherine of Oren, Princess Imperial, Duchess of Westmark Born in 1838 to Philip III, Holy Orenian Emperor & Anastasia, Holy Orenian Empress @AndrewTech HIH The Prince of Providence Peter Augustus His Imperial Highness Prince Peter of Furnestock, Prince of Providence, Duke of Petra Born in 1842 to Philip III, Holy Orenian Emperor & Anastasia, Holy Orenian Empress @Da_Emperors HIH Princess Victoria of Furnestock Victoria Augusta Emma Her Imperial Highness Princess Victoria of Oren Born in 1843 to Philip III, Holy Orenian Emperor & Anastasia, Holy Orenian Empress @Asutto HIH Prince James of Furnestock James Maximilian His Imperial Highness Prince James of Oren Born in 1844 to Philip III, Holy Orenian Emperor & Anastasia, Holy Orenian Empress @CharmingCavalier HIH Princess Anna of Furnestock Anna Ulyssa Aurelia Her Imperial Highness Princess Anna of Oren Born in 1845 to Philip III, Holy Orenian Emperor & Anastasia, Holy Orenian Empress @amyselia HIH Prince Frederick of Furnestock Frederick Charles His Imperial Highness Prince Frederick of Oren Born in 1847 to Philip III, Holy Orenian Emperor & Anastasia, Holy Orenian Empress @Lionhz HIH Princess Lorena of Furnestock Lorena Theodosia Valera Her Imperial Highness Princess Lorena of Oren Born in 1851 to Philip III, Holy Orenian Emperor & Anastasia, Holy Orenian Empress @Azie THE HOUSE OF WESTMARK HIH The Princess Imperial Catherine Anastasia Sophia Her Imperial Highness Princess Catherine of Oren, Princess Imperial and Duchess of Westmark Born in 1838 to Philip III, Holy Orenian Emperor & Anastasia, Holy Orenian Empress @AndrewTech TH Baron of Pompourelia Joseph Clement His Grace Joseph Clement, Duke of Westmark and Baron of Pompourelia Born in 1837 to Lady Helena Eleanor, Baroness of Pompourelia & Mister Demetriano d’Montelliano @sashimichopped TH Lord Franz Sarkozic Franz Iosifovich The Honorable Lord Franz Iosifovich of Pompourelia Born in 1862 to Catherine, Princess Imperial & Joseph Clement, Baron of Pompourelia @Matheaww TH Lady Irena Sarkoza Irena Iosifovna The Honorable Lady Irena Iosifovna of Pompourelia Born in 1863 to Catherine, Princess Imperial & Joseph Clement, Baron of Pompourelia @libertyybelle TH Lady Anastasia Sarkoza Anastasia Iosifovna The Honorable Lady Anastasia Iosifovna of Pompourelia Born in 1864 to Catherine, Princess Imperial &Joseph Clement, Baron of Pompourelia @TheIchorDruid TH Lady Laurentina Sarkoza Laurentina Iosifovna The Honorable Lady Laurentina Iosifovna of Pompourelia Born in 1864 to Catherine, Princess Imperial & Joseph Clement, Baron of Pompourelia @tilly THE HOUSE OF HUNTSHILL HIH The Count of Huntshill George Maximilian His Imperial Highness, Prince George of Renzfeld, Count of Huntshill Born in 1819 to Prince Philip Aurelian, Count of Renzfeld & Princess Amadea of Pompourelia @FredrickTeufel HIH The Countess of Huntshill Isabella Maria Her Imperial Highness Princess Isabella of Kositz, Countess of Huntshill Born in 1822 to TH Lord Vladrick Ruthern & Lady Amie Halcourt @MapleSunflower TH Lady Annabelle of Huntshill Annabelle Augusta The Honorable Lady Annabelle of Huntshill Born in 1840 to Prince George, Count of Huntshill & Princess Isabella, Countess of Huntshill @Azie TH Lady Catherine of Huntshill Catherine Maria The Honorable Lady Catherine of Huntshill Born in 1843 to Prince George, Count of Huntshill & Princess Isabella, Countess of Huntshill @SapphirePool TH Lord John of Huntshill John Aurelian The Honorable Lord John of Huntshill Born in 1844 to Prince George, Count of Huntshill & Princess Isabella, Countess of Huntshill @CanadaMatt THE HOUSE OF VANDERFALL HIH The Countess Vanderfall Amelia Margaret Her Imperial Highness, Amelia Margaret, Countess of Vanderfall Born in 1823 to Prince Philip Aurelian, Count of Renzfeld & Princess Amadea of Pompourelia @libertyybelle TH Lady Margaret of Vanderfall Margaret Cecile The Honorable Lady Margaret of Vanderfall Born in 1856 to Princess Amelia Margaret, Countess of Vanderfall & Lord Victor Halcourt @tilly TH Lord Joseph of Vanderfall Joseph Amadeus The Honorable Joseph of Vanderfall Born in 1858 to Princess Amelia Margaret, Countess of Vanderall & Lord Victor Halcourt @Cubicita TH Lord Marcel of Vanderfall Marcel Amos The Honorable Marcel of Vanderfall Born in 1858 to Princess Amelia Margaret, Countess of Vanderfall & Lord Victor Halcourt @HeyitsNano TH Lady Victoria of Vanderfall Victoria Anastasie The Honorable Lady Victoria of Vanderfall Born in 1860 to Princess Amelia Margaret, Countess of Vanderfall & Lord Victor Halcourt @Rainalyn THE LINE OF SUCCESSION HIM The Emperor & HIM The Empress 1. HIH The Prince of Providence 2. HIH Prince James of Furnestock 3. HIH Prince Frederick of Furnestock 4. HIH The Princess Imperial 5. Lord Franz of Pompourelia 6. Lady Irena of Pompourelia 7. Lady Anastasia of Pompourelia 8. Lady Laurentina of Pompourelia 9. HIH Princess Victoria of Furnestock 10. HIH Princess Anna of Furrnestock 11. HIH Princess Lorena of Furnestock 12. HIH Prince John of Renzfeld 13. HIH Princess Christina of Renzfeld 14. HIH Prince Robert of Crestfall 15. TRH The Count of Temesch **(1786) HIH The Countess of Rosemoor (b. 1755) and any descendants are explicitly excluded from the line of succession on account of her morganatic marriage. ***(1786) HIH The Count of Kaphro (b. 1762) and any descendants excluded from the line of succession on account of his morganatic marriage. ***(1819) HIH Princess Elisabeth of Aldersberg (b. 1796) and any descendants are explicitly excluded from the line of succession on account of her marriage without Imperial assent. ****(1838) HIH The Count of Huntshill (b. 1819) and any descendants are explicitly excluded from the line of succession on account of his morganatic marriage. *****(1853) HIH Princess Charlotte of Aldersberg (b. 1792) and any descendants are explicitly excluded from the line of succession on account of treason and disownment. ******(1855) HIH The Countess of Vanderfall (b. 1823) and any descendants are explicitly excluded from the line of succession on account of her morganatic marriage.