Peerage of Auresia

History of the Auresian Nobility

From the earliest days of the Auresian Empire, the peerage system has been fundamental to its governance. Many nobles descend from individuals who collaborated with or were part of the empire's founding figures. These nobles are collectively known as "The Peerage" or "The Noble Orders." A distinct characteristic is that nobility can only be officially recognized if one possesses the letters patent stamped and confirmed with the Privy Seal of the Dynast Emperor. The letters are presented by the emperor himself in the presence of the Lord Privy Seal and two other lords paramount. The investiture ceremony, wherein a new noble is recognized, is traditionally held in the Celestial Basilica.

Structure of the Peerage

• The Dynasts: These are the families holding hereditary titles, and their lineage can be traced back to the Janessari, who were confidants and top commanders of Cephorus I. Informally referred to as the "upper aristocracy" or "aristo imperialis," they represent some of the oldest and most influential names in the empire. Notable Dynast Houses include:
  • House of Acilida
  • House of Alexandros
  • House of Avenicci (and so on...) Except for the Imperial House, these houses possess all the dukedoms in the empire. Notably, only dynasts outside of imperial princes and princesses can be addressed as "Serene Highness."
• The Patricians: Although not dynasts, these nobles can still hold titles and don't have the esteemed distinction of descending from Janessari blood. They are primarily Auresians who supported the empire in later stages and were honored for their allegiance and service. They represent the middle tier of the empire's aristocracy. Titles Include:
  • Duke
  • Marquess
  • Count
  • Baron
• The Equestrians: These are the minor nobility or the "lower aristocracy." Typically, they own modest lands and are affluent but not on the scale of the patricians or dynast families.

Titles & Stature

• Crown Prince/Princess: Exclusively for the immediate successor to the Golden Lion throne.
• Prince Imperial: Reserved for the first through twelfth in line for succession.
• Prince/Princess: Pertains to the siblings of the reigning Dynast Emperor, their offspring, and the offspring of the emperor's siblings.

Peerage Honors

• Archduke/Archduchess: Not granted as a life peerage, they administer a province.
• Duke/Duchess: They oversee a prefecture.
• Count/Countess: Supervise a district.
• Baron/Baroness: Most common for life peers; they manage a municipality.

Additional Honors

• Knight: Addressed as "Sir" or "Dame." They don't hold lands outside of personal estates. This title is bestowed upon those who earn high imperial honors and can be replaced if a peerage is awarded.