tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69551308153986945092024-03-12T18:31:08.991-07:00The World of DanielA fantasy world of Royalty, Royal Jewels and Events all in 1/6th scale miniature.The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.comBlogger464125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-31083317681480721962015-07-04T09:15:00.000-07:002015-07-04T11:58:19.516-07:00The Imperial Coronation Part 3 (The Procession and Balcony)<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Part 3</b></span></div>
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<b>The Post Coronation Procession and Balcony Appearance.</b><br />
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At 12:00 the ceremony was completed and the Emperor and Empress were ready to take the processional route back to the Aldarian Palace. Donning their Imperial Blue Robes of State they exited the cathedral to the National anthems of Scotney and Britania followed by the applause of the congregation and the acclaim of the crowds outside. </div>
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With the Emperor and Empress comfortably seated in the Coronation Coach they began the 20 minute processional ride back to the palace. </div>
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The Coronation Coach was to be at the head of a train of several coaches, carriages and limousines carrying all the dignitaries back to the palace for a banquet in celebration of the day's events. The banquet will not be allowed any media coverage to allow a respite for the VIP's after the strains of the day. </div>
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The Imperial Family sends the Coronation Coach off as they wait for the arrival of their processional transport. </div>
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The Coronation Coach is lead by the Earl Basquith who's ancestors have held that honour for over 7 generations. </div>
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Directly behind the Coronation Coach Princess Augusta and Princess Kirsten followed in a State Landau.<br />
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They in turn were followed by the Duke of Swann, Prince Dillon and the Mithrandir.<br />
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Apart from the Coronation Coach, the Duke of Swann garnered some of the greatest shouts from the crowd.<br />
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The Grand Duke and Grand Duchess of Reichethal can be see in this carriage...<br />
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...along with the Grand Duchess' sister the Shahbahnou of Perlistan.<br />
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The Prince and Princess of Monagask.<br />
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The Fulco D'Este's and their cousin the Duke of Banbury.<br />
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the King and Queen of Syldavia. To post the entire procession would take far to much space so we hope our selection will suffice for this report.<br />
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Finally after almost two hours, the procession was complete which did afford some rest to the Imperial Couple who arrived at the Aldarian Palace first. Then at about 15:00 the much awaited balcony appearance of the new Emperor and Empress and the Imperial Family was received to tumultuous acclaim of the electrified crowd.<br />
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Imperial waves abounded as did beaming smiles and a continuous roar from the crowd.<br />
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The Duke of Swann shared in the glorious moment as did many members of the family.<br />
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After several balcony appearances lasting quite a while, the Imperial Family retired to prepare for the banquet. A fireworks display has been planned for 21:00 tonight at which point the Empress and Empress will reappear. That will not be blogged as the bank holiday demands celebration and our staff will be out on the streets enjoying the celebration along with the whole nation. We truly see this as one of the greatest milestones and social victories in the history of the entire Europa and along with the Mithrandir we hope and pray for a new day and bright future for all...<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>...and they all lived happily ever after. </b></span><br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-51752880335579931962015-07-04T06:13:00.000-07:002015-07-04T11:56:04.469-07:00The Imperial Coronation Part 2 (The Ceremony)<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Part 2</b></span></div>
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<b>The Coronation Ceremony</b><br />
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After the Emperor took his place at the Throne the actual ceremony was officially about to begin. </div>
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The Emperor positioned himself before the Throne and after another fanfare was announced by the State Herald as His Imperial Majesty the Emperor Chritian-Victor of the United Empire and King of the Scots and Britanians. </div>
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The Mithradir presided over the Prayer of Blessing for the Nation of Scotney and the Nation of Britania. This was followed by the hymn "Amazing Grace". The Coronation Liturgy also includes a reading and revelationary teaching from the Scripture.</div>
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The Mithrandir then proceed down from the Pulpit of the Lion's Voice to consecrate the Coronation Regalia in the presence of the Royal assembly. </div>
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After the consecration prayer, the St. Christian's Crown is brought to the Throne and placed on a pedestal next to it. The Emperor then received a direct prophetic prayer and blessing from the Mithrandir which was vocally affirmed by the congregation shouting: "...on earth as it is in heaven..." </div>
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The Crown is raised by His Holiness...</div>
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...and the Emperor is crowned King of the Scots and King of the Britanians by the will of God. The congregation voice their acclaim: "...God save the King, long live the King..." three times. A 24 gun salute is fired from Imperial Park outside the cathedral as crowds audibly cheer. </div>
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The Empress then proceeds down to the Holy Altar and curtseys to the Mithrandir. </div>
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The First Princess, Princess Augusta then present the Consort Crown of Scotney and Britania. </div>
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It is acknowledged by the Empress who touches it. She is then acclaimed by the congregation " ...Long live the Queen...". The wife of the King ( as the will of God) receives her queenly dignity through marriage and is thus not crowned. </div>
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A Duke of Swann traditionally receives his Chain of Office from the King of the Scots upon his ascension to the throne however our current Duke did not have the opportunity as the Kingdom of the Scots was disbanded at the time. As part of this coronation ceremony the Duke of Swann was afforded this belated traditional honour. </div>
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The Emperor offered the chain with the words: "To our most Royal and Noble cousin we acknowledge and affirm the rulership and friendship to and from the Principality of Swann." </div>
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The congregation then affirms His Royal Highness with an applause. </div>
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The Duke of Swann recedes from the throne taking three steps back and returns to his position in the cathedral. This brings us to the next part of the ceremony. A short 15 minute interval allows everybody a break while the Emperor, Empress and attendants retire to the small Imperial Chapel behind the Throne. </div>
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The Imperial Couple reappear and are ceremonially disrobed in the presence of the reassemble congregation. The Emperor, as King of the Scots and Britanians is assisted by Blue Cardinal in the process of removing his Red Robe. </div>
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The Emperor will also swap his Royal Chain of Office for the Imperial equivalent. </div>
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Empress Odeliah is assisted by Princess Kirsten in her disrobing. </div>
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The Imperial Couple then don the Imperial Blue Robes of State before the Holy Altar. Empress Odeliah also swaps all her jewellery of Royal Scotney and Britanian association for an Imperial Tiara, Necklace, Earrings and Brooch.</div>
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The Mithrandir ascends the pulpit to declare a blessing and the will of the people to submit to an Elected Holy Emperor. </div>
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The Emperor is presented in turn with the Sword of State, the Imperial Sceptre and Orb of Dominion. Each is accompanied by a vow and a consecrating prayer.</div>
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After which the Emperor returns to the Throne and is joined by Empress Odeliah. At this point the congregation cheers: "...Long live the Emperor..."</div>
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As the Emperor holds his dignity by election, he is not crowned but " bears the crown" in the humility of equality with the peoples of Europa. </div>
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However, the Empress holds her dignity as Empress by the will of her husband, who then crowns her as such to the acclaim of the congregation who voice their affirmation of the Emperor's will with three cheers of: " Hurrah!".</div>
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The Empress then promises her faithful alliegence, first to her husband and then to her Emperor.</div>
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The Crown of Empress Crystobel used to crown Empress Odeliah and all Her Majesty's Imperial jewels can be seen in detail in this spectacular photo. </div>
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The Emperor then poses in State with the Royal and Imperial Crowns for a set of coreographed photo opportunities. </div>
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The Imperial Family are also recored in a photo for the history books. </div>
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The Royal guests...</div>
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...and the Scot-Britanian Nobles are all photographed as the Emperor and Empress prepare for the procession back to the Aldarian Palace. <span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-61348700610877230122015-07-04T04:29:00.002-07:002015-07-04T11:54:00.010-07:00The Coronation of Their Imperial Majesties the Emperor and Empress of the United Empire Part 1 (The Arrivals)<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Part 1</b></span><br />
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<b>The Arrivals</b><br />
<b><br /></b>Coronation Day is finally here and we are all overjoyed! It has been called the event of the century and such it may well be as the whole of Europa and most certainly Scotney and Britania focus their attention on today's media spectacular. The long awaited Imperial Coronation promises to be the most spectacular event witnessed in Europa. </div>
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As early as 5 o clock this morning the streets of Londinium have been positively electric with excitement as Royal watchers who camped on the streets on route to the Cathedral started waking up and preparing for the day's festivities. </div>
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Crowds of onlookers and security are lining the streets clamoring for a comfortable view to see the procession of the Emperor and Empress. The Imperial couple and all the invited dignitaries will ride to and from the cathedral in a vast cortege of carriages, coaches and limousines. The Gold Imperial Coach will see use in public for the first time in over two decades and the spectacle will be a sight to remeber.</div>
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The throne had been set up as part of the weeks long preparations for the event. All the coronation elements were painstakingly prepared along with the rest of the cathedral as is necessary per protocol requirements for the ancient ritual. </div>
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Inside the Cathedral of the Lion Heart, His Holiness the Mithrandir and the Silver and Blue Cardinals have finalized all preparations and are the first to await the arrival of the dignitaries.<br />
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The Coronation Regalia inclusive of the Imperial Crown and the St. Christian Crown arrived in state last night and have since been displayed on the Holy Altar.<br />
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The clergy had to perform all the blessing rituals in accordance with the sun rising on Coronation Day as tradition dictates. This symbolizes the predestination of God's will and the faithful dawning of a new day.<br />
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At the entrance of the Cathedral of the Lion Heart stands the historic Statue of the Angel of Prayer where the Emperor will stop today upon arrival to say a prayer before his coronation. </div>
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The first fanfare announces the first wave of official arrivals, that of the lower nobility. These include all those of the aristocracy ranking below Duke. Dress code for an Imperial Coronation is formal suits, court dress or uniforms and full length gowns in tones of white silver and gold for the ladies. The first arrivals began at 8;30.<br />
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The Baron and Baroness D'Rothchild.</div>
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The Baron Oliver.</div>
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The Baron Van Heerden.<br />
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The Viscount Faraway.<br />
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The Viscount and Viscountess Hayz.<br />
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The Earl and Countess Basquith.<br />
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The Earl and Countess Cartwright.<br />
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The Marchioness of Londonderry.<br />
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The next fanfare announces the Higher Nobility which includes all the Dukes.<br />
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The Duchess of Lancaster.<br />
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The Duke and Duchess of Marlboro.<br />
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The Duke and Duchess of Argyle.<br />
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The Duchess of Roswind.<br />
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Next, without fanfare all the foreign Royal relations and extended dignitaries who are guests not required by the coronation protocol to attend are announced.<br />
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Prince Valmont D'Pont Du Lac.<br />
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The Duke of Banbury.<br />
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The Countess of Bo'hemia.<br />
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The Princess Von Thurn und Taxis.<br />
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The Grand Duke and Grand Duchess of Reichenthal.<br />
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The Grand Duke and Grand Duchess of Serbieski.<br />
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The ceiling mounted cameras saw the cathedral fill itself steadily as guests arrived.<br />
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The cathedral was filled to capacity with many needing to take their designated positions in the raised galleries.<br />
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The next group of official guests to arrive were also announced with fanfare. These were all the pretenders to currently defunct thrones but was a sensitive moment as the Imperial Coronation celebrates the restoration, at least to a major degree if not all, of the monarchies of Scotney and Britania.<br />
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Their Serene Highnesses, the Prince and Princess of Monagask.<br />
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Princess Oktavia arrived with her husband Prince Gerard who has only recently fully assumed his historic role as official pretender to the Principality of Monagask.<br />
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Three lady pretenders then arrived in a group. From left the Duchess Di Giorgio Pretender to the Throne of Romagna, the Grand Duchess Xenia Alexandrovna Pretender to the Throne of Ruskiana and the nominally restored Shahbahnou of Perlistan.<br />
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The three would- be rulers with Grand Duchess Xenia in the center of the photo, looked the part their Royal rank demanded.<br />
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The Duchess Di Giorgio.<br />
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The Shahbahnou of Perlistan.<br />
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Next arrived the Prince Louis of Franconia, Pretender to the Throne of Franconia.<br />
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Finally, the Pretender to the Throne of Fulco D'Este, Arch Duke Otto and his wife Arch Duchess Marie-Elizabeth.<br />
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The Arch Duchess is the sister of the famous Duke of Swann.<br />
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Some shots from the cathedral cams show the guests as they take their seats.<br />
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A spectacular view of the Holy Altar amidst the arriving guests.<br />
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The next fanfare sounded to announce the arrival of reigning monarchs.<br />
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Her Majesty the Queen of Ophiri and her brother Prince Shaka.<br />
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Her Serene Highness the Grand Princess of Wallachia and her husband the Baron Bagrazia.<br />
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Queen Gloria of Normandia was accompanied by her husband the Prince of Northwold.<br />
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The Emperor's cousin Queen Maxima and King Nikolas III of Syldavia.<br />
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As usual Lady Arcwhite made for quite an imposing and stylish figure.<br />
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Her Majesty the Queen of Hispania.<br />
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Their Royal Highnesses The Grand Duke and Grand Duchess of Hanoveria are also cousins of the Emperor.<br />
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The Duke of Swann arrived last at the end of the arriving procession. His Royal Highness did so in his own carriage.<br />
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The Duke of Swann was accompanied by his cousin and heir, Prince Dillon.<br />
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The Empress' two attendants are Princess Kirsten...<br />
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...and Princess Augusta who arrived directly in advance of the Imperial Coach. They are to attend the Imperial couple with their robes as they alight from the coach and enter the cathedral. They also serve the official role of attending the Empress specifically during the Coronation Ceremony. The Duke of Swann fulfills that role for the Emperor.<br />
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Then the Imperial Fanfare sounded the arrival of the Emperor and Empress at 9;34 as the crowds cheered outside the cathedral.<br />
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A spectacular sight awed all onlookers as the Imperial couple exited the coach.<br />
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The Emperor and Empress wear the Royal Red Robes of State as indicative of the Royal titles of Kingly Authority in Scotney and Britania. Once crowned they will swap these for the Imperial Blue Robes of Imperial Authority.<br />
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The Emperor wore the dress uniform of a High Admiral of the Fleet and Empress Odeliah wore a Silver Rose Themed Gown created by Stephanie Couture. The rose is highly symbolic of Royalty and the lifelong sacrifice to serve their people.<br />
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After the Emperor said his prayer at the Statue of the Angel of Prayer to devote his heart to God for the proceedings the Imperial Couple prepared to enter the cathedral.<br />
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The Imperial March was played as the Emperor and Empress entered.<br />
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The Emperor walks to the center of the cathedral just before the Holy Altar and stops.<br />
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He is met there by the Mithrandir who awaited his entry at the Throne. Here His Imperial Majesty is officially received and blessed.<br />
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The Empress follows close behind...<br />
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...and in turn followed by the attendants.<br />
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The Emperor then waits at the Throne for his wife.<br />
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Finally the Emperor prepares to take his position at the Throne for the Coronation Ceremony to begin as planned at 10;00 exactly.<br />
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We will post Part 2 in an hour or so once our photography and news feeds allow us to report on the ceremony. That will be followed by the return procession and Aldarian Palace Balcony appearance.<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-48337031808293017852015-07-02T22:08:00.000-07:002015-07-03T01:57:09.703-07:00Breaking News (Pre-Coronation Imperial Family Banquet)<div style="text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_329436447"></span><span id="goog_329436448"></span>Today we feature our second post since our previous one unofficially announced what was essentially the first post of Coronation Week. This week has seen the influx to the city of Londinium of many diplomatic VIP's, Heads of State and Royalty from the world over to attend the Imperial Coronation.<br />
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The Duke of Swann, cousin of the Emperor, flew in on Tuesday with a small plane and minimal security.<br />
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The King of Syldavia's official car was also spotted by photographers yesterday making it's way from the airport. All these arrivals do count as State Visits but are not individually given a full State Reception due to the protocol surrounding the Imperial Coronation<br />
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Another sign of a foreign Royal presence in Londinium has been spotted by a paparazzi photographer. The raised Royal Standard of the Grand Duke of Hanoveria at the Hanoverian Embassy signifies that His Royal Highness Grand Duke George is in residence.<br />
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Among the official dignitaries descending on Londinium the new Emperor has many close family ties. As such the public event of the upcoming coronation is also an intimate family celebration. For this purpose the Emperor hosted a private function for his direct family at the Aldarian Palace last night. The Imperial Family Banquet was allowed media coverage although the invited guests only included the Emperor's immediate family. An entirely separate Coronation Banquet in honour of all the diplomatic VIP's is to be held after the coronation ceremony on Saturday evening but will be allowed no media access. </div>
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The Aldarian Palace has not seen glamour on par with the Imperial Family Banquet since before the 96 Revolution. A happy mood has now begun to entirely wipe away the bitter memories of the past for the entire Scot-Britanian people. This private banquet set the tone for what is to be a most remarkable weekend of festivities. In the photo above we see the members of the Emperor's Family arriving at last night's event. </div>
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Her Imperial Highness Princess Augusta arrived with the Duke of Swann. Her Alison Couture dress was perfectly complimented by her ruby parure.<br />
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Princess Kirsten Youssopoff arrived with her cousin the Duke of Banbury as her very busy husband was only to join the family on Sunday after the coronation. <br />
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Prince Dillon, the Heriditary Prince of Swann arrived with his aunt and uncle.<br />
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The Arch Duke and Arch Duchess of Fulco D'Este. The Arch Duchess poignantly chose to wear a necklace that belonged to Empress Crystobel in honour of her aunt's memory. <br />
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The Grand Duke and Grand Duchess of Hanoveria at right followed by the King and Queen of Syldavia ascend the staircase of the entrance hall to the Aldarian Palace to meet their cousin the new Emperor. <br />
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Queen Maxima looked radiant in a copper dress by Hilegonda Couture and Yellow diamonds.<br />
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Grand Duchess Alice chose white and the Hanoverian Aquamarines.<br />
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Their Imperial Majesties were decidedly happy to welcome their family as guests on this significant and intimate dinner. </div>
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Empress Odeliah looked positively majestic in the Crown Amethyst Parure and Stephanie Couture dress.<br />
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Protocol dictated the men bow and the ladies curtsy before the Imperial Couple. Aside from these small formalities the evening was a very relaxed affair.<br />
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The banquet table was set with the Imperial dinner service last used at the coronation of the previous Emperor and Empress.<br />
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A family portrait photo opportunity availed itself for posterity.<br />
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After the formalities and dinner the guests danced the night away.<br />
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The Empress sported an up-do for the first time in public and it truly did the Crown Aquamarines justice.<br />
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The Grand Duchess of hanoveria was also wearing Stephanie Couture in true Imperial style.<br />
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The jovial relaxed mood was genuinely celebratory for this intrinsically familial event and historic victory over the tragedies of the revolution.<br />
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Even the unmarried Duke of Swann got to take on the dance floor with his aunt-in-law, Princess Augusta.<br />
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Today, as we report, was declared a bank holiday in advance of Saturday's Coronation Celebration. Our next three posts will be our Saturday feature on the coronation ceremony itself. The Coronation Banquet will receive no media coverage to allow for the VIP guests a respite after this weeks stringent media coverage. We can now but wait excitedly for the happy day.<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-34297973631290682062015-06-26T23:39:00.001-07:002015-07-19T00:19:41.766-07:00Wonderful Weekends (State Portraits of the Emperor and Empress of the United Empire)<div style="text-align: center;">
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In Honour of Their Imperial Majesties the Emperor and Empress of the United Empire, King and Queen of the Scots and Britanians.<br />
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With exactly one week to the Imperial Coronation next Saturday, the Imperial Court has released a set of spectacular State Portraits of the Emperor and Empress, to remember history, commemorate the upcoming event and to acknowledge the King of the Scots and Britanians as Emperor of the United Empire. <br />
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The Emperor visited the partially destroyed ruin of Roswind Castle and posed for a portrait. The last time an Emperor set foot on the exact spot where the photo was taken was on the day the 1996 Revolution was sparked by a missile strike on Roswind Castle. It killed Emperor Christian and set events in motion that have now come full circle. The very personal moment is a poignant reminder of Scot-Britania's tragic past but also of lessons learnt, forgiveness and hope in a better future.<br />
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As King of the Scots and Britanians, Emperor Christian-Victor posed for a series of portraits wearing the uniform of Admiral with the Order of the Diamond Star. and the Royal Chain of Kingship.<br />
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We can also see the badges of the Order of the Hanoverian Polar Star and of the Purple Swan.<br />
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His Majesty also posed with the Sword of Knighthood.<br />
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As Queen of the Scots and Britanians, Empress Odeliah joined her husband in this truly spectacular set of portraits. She chose to wear rarely seen parts of the Crown Jewels, like the Imperial Sapphire Tiara.<br />
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Empress Odeliah also wore Two brooches in the fashion of an Imperial Stomacher to great effect.<br />
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As a couple the Emperor and Empress struck a majestic pose giving us a hint of the glory of the coronation to come.<br />
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Here, as King and Queen of the Scots and Britanians we see the Crown of St Christian and the Queen's Crown in the photo.<br />
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His Imperial Majesty also posed for an official portrait in his capacity as Elected Head of the Europan Union, which in effect is his position of power as Emperor.<br />
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This formal shot of the Emperor portrays him in the corporate vein of his now very powerful role as Moderator of all Europa.<br />
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These photos are decidedly modern yet also links to the continuity of history in the symbol of the crown,<br />
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As Emperor and Imperial Couple, a series of photos where also taken in ceremonial dress.<br />
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His Imperial Majesty in Hussar Uniform and Chain of Imperial Office.<br />
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Empress Odeliah opted for the Crown Rubies and again revived the fashion for stomacher brooches.<br />
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This photo included the Empress' Crown.<br />
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Finally we can appreciate the Emperor and Empress in tantalizingly glorious style. All we can do is now wait on the edges of our seats for what promises to be the most amazing event in history.<br />
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From today all the invited dignitaries should start arriving in order to prepare for next week's historical event. It has been announced from the Aldarian palace that a Banquet will be hosted by the Emperor for his immediate family on Thursday night in advance of the Friday bank holiday just before Coronation Weekend. </div>
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-50799442199222717962015-06-24T00:39:00.000-07:002015-07-04T00:31:32.559-07:00What's Up Wednesday (Mithrandir Vision of the Future)<div style="text-align: center;">
With just over a week to go to the Imperial Coronation, the Mithrandir requested the presence of the Duke of Swann for his first official duty in his new capacity as Grey Cardinal and Heir to the Stone Throne. The Mithrandir is the highest ranking cleric in all Europa and the spiritual overseer of all the Royal Families. His Holiness has the mystical role of sensing the heart of Europa and God's will and plan for it's people. Historically the Mithrandir has always had the responsibility for officiating over coronation ceremonies. As such he will also be crowning the new Emperor on the 4th of July. As reported before His Holiness has appointed the Duke of Swann as his heir.<br />
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His Holiness the Mithrandir has as his Ceremonial Seat of Office, the Stone Throne. It has been the mystical place of meeting for the Mithrandir for centuries. The throne is in an undisclosed spot somewhere in the dense forests on the border of Swann and Andor.<br />
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His Royal Highness the Duke of Swann or rather His Eminent Highness the Grey Cardinal when in the presence of the Mithrandir, arrived for his audience requested by the Mithrandir as the Duke's first obligation in his new role as heir.<br />
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Protocol demands that those of lower rank, bow to the higher and only the Emperor is technically equal to the Mithrandir.<br />
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But this is also a meeting of friends and indeed a meeting for the discussion of deep spiritual intimacy. The Mithrandir asked the Duke to meet His Holiness in order to meditate on the future of Europa and to search his own heart in prayer for a Vision of the Future. As the future Mithrandir, the Duke of Swann has to receive a spiritual imprint of God's will for himself and his role as the "conscience" of Europa.<br />
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After praying together the Duke of Swann felt a strong unction to look East from the throne...</div>
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A vision was then revealed to His Royal Highness and the Mithrandir. In the Eastern skies a massive crystalline gem appeared reflecting all the colours of the rainbow. It seemed as large as a city and slowly rotated in all directions. The Duke of Swann stated that he heard the words; "...there is a treasure in the atmosphere..." Whatever this means is open to interpretation. However some obvious conclusions may easily be assumed, "a treasure" strongly implies a blessing, beauty and prosperity. His Royal Highness feels that due to it rising in the East that it implies "a new day dawning" for Europa and indeed the world. The Mithrandir concurred that a bright colourful time lays ahead but also exhorted that there may be much more to the vision. The absurdity of a hovering gemstone would naturally involve the miraculous and there is always far more to such mysteries of God than what we initially understand. Apart from these first impressions we will all have to see how this mystical vision unfolds in its entirety over time.<br />
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The Duke of Swann specifically wanted to share this personal encounter exclusively here on what has always been His Royal Highness' blog as the new day is dawning with the coronation of the Emperor next week. We hope and pray that this very spiritual encounter serves to bless our readers and the people of Europa for the future.<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-78854533351924714042015-06-20T00:26:00.001-07:002015-07-04T00:33:03.477-07:00Wonderful Weekends (1983 State Portraits of Queen Elizabeth of Britania)<div style="text-align: center;">
With two weeks till the 4th of July Imperial Coronation, this blog and indeed the whole of Europa have been busy and extremely preoccupied. We haven't posted much except the bare essentials and expect it to remain so until the wave of coronation posts hit. We have decided due to the scale of the coronation to post three posts on coronation day. Back to today's Wonderful Weekends.<br />
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We have had many old photos reappear since the restoration of the Scotney and Britanian monarchies. Most of these have been of the iconic Empress Crystobel as the last and most influential ruler of the former Empire and Kingdom of Scotney. However, this week, restoration work at the Aldarian Palace's interior have revealed extremely rare photos of the last Queen Consort of Britania. All photographic records of the new Emperor's grandmother was thought to have been lost to history due to the 1996 Revolution's destruction. However some old boxes revealed these negatives of photos taken of the Queen. We present with great joy the old State Portrait photos of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, Queen Consort of Britania. </div>
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The set of photos show Her Late Majesty wearing the Nizam Ruby Demi Parure with a tiara that looks exactly like one found last year in the Reichenthal Vault. The Reichenthal Vault tiara had no records and was thought to be a historical anomaly until now. Further investigation is now underway with the possibility of the tiara then returning to the Imperial Crown Collection.<br />
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These beautiful photos are a truly historical find that has just added impetus to the build up to the coronation in July.<br />
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One other photo was also discovered, that of Empress Crystobel's husband, Emperor Christian of the United Empire of Scot-Britania. It is one of only a few photos in existence of the first Emperor. The new Emperor Christian-Victor was very happy to receive the news of the discovery of his father's photo.<br />
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His Majesty Emperor Christian of the United Empire of Scot Britania.<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-60043822383230621912015-06-18T22:03:00.000-07:002015-06-18T22:03:04.590-07:00Fashion Friday (Empress Odeliah's Hats)<div style="text-align: center;">
We have seen a lot of the former Crown Princess Imperial, now Empress Odeliah, Queen of the Scots and Britanians, in the news of late. This is obviously due to the media interest as the build up towards the Imperial Coronation gains ever more momentum. </div>
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The Empress' fashion and style choices are also gaining far more interest than ever before and market researchers tell of how what the Empress wears affects their client demands. Today's feature will take a look at the Empress's choice in hats as she developed from shy farm girl, to Princess, to Empress.<br />
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For formal events during the day and evening events that are outdoors, hats are worn. Hats are often seen less than tiaras in the media and may seem a bit archaic to the man in the street due to their extreme formality. However they remain a powerful fashion and style statement when worn by ladies of rank at events where the dress code demand. </div>
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A matching Sahara toned hat complimented the Empress outfit earlier this year at one of the many events surrounding the ascension of her husband to the Royal thrones of Scotney and Britania. </div>
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<span id="goog_1921045513"></span><span id="goog_1921045514"></span>All black with matching hat for the official visit to the Imperial Mausoleum as part of the formal ascension ceremonies surrounding the build up toward the Imperial Coronation. The Empress style has evidently matured since her marriage to Prince Christian-Victor in 2010.<br />
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Bright summer colours accented by a purple hat set the tone for the celebration of the Imperial Memorial. The Empress is equally comfortable in celebratory colours as she is in somber black. She does show some interest in variety in her choice of hats but does not go all-out daring. </div>
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The start of 2015 was celebrated with a balcony appearance at the Aldarian Palace. The then still Princess Odeliah chose a bright red and black outfit with matching hat. </div>
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When the Empress is in an obvious happy mood she has been known to go for slightly broader brimmed hats like at the exuberant arrival of the Imperial Couple to permanently reside in the Scot-Britanian Isles after their exile was lifted. </div>
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The broad brimmed hat has become a favourite of the Empress who has worn it more than once also displaying her thriftiness in reusing hats.</div>
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Initially as Crown Princess Imperial, the Empress was not a fan of hats preferring to go without them for functions during the day. This was a testament to her humble beginnings as a farm girl from Muren. However the funeral of Empress Crystobel was her first major appearance in a head covering during the day. The formality of the event and her close relationship to her mother in law saw Odeliah wear a veil in accordance with protocol. </div>
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A veil may count as a hat especially for events of a religious overtone where attention grabbing hats may be seen as offensive or ostentatious. Her Majesty looked perfect in her obligatory white and veil for the Imperial funeral. </div>
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-48809393912858540952015-06-12T11:57:00.000-07:002015-06-12T11:57:38.134-07:00Wonderful Weekends (2015 State Portraits of the Princess of Wallachia and Abdication Commemoration Portraits of the Duke of Swann)<div style="text-align: center;">
Two Royal cousins have released State Portraits at the same time. We will feature these two sets of portraits here today. First up, the Princess of Wallachia has released her official 2015 State Portraits and have timed the publication as part of the popular build up toward the Imperial Coronation. </div>
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Her Serene Highness, the Princess of Wallachia and Baroness Bagrazia is seen here in red, wearing the Swann Dowry Tiara, the Order of the Ublient and the Wallachian Chain of Princely Office.</div>
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The Princess' spectacular dress was made by a Wallachian Couturier especially for this shoot. The photos were taken in the Royal Chapel of the Hunedoara Castle.<br />
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Next up we have our own Duke of Swann, cousin of the Princess of Wallachia. His Royal Highness wanted to commemorate his decision to abdicate with a set of symbolic State Portraits. Here follows the result. <br />
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The 1909 Rolls Royce that was made for the Duke's great grandfather has long been a favourite of the Duke and has never featured in a State Portrait. It may be seen as a powerful symbol of continuity carrying through for over 100 years down the line of ruling Dukes. It also may be seen that as a vehicle of being symbolic of taking a journey and as is the case with the Duke of Swann being appointed the successor of the Mithrandir, a new and unexpected future lays ahead of our famous Royal somewhere outside the Palace gates.<br />
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These portraits do have a very nostalgic feel almost like a farewell and that seems to have been the intent.<br />
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2015, "The year of change and new beginnings."</div>
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-49206393085319322202015-06-10T08:42:00.003-07:002015-06-11T22:01:53.212-07:00Fascinating Fridays (List of Royal Statues)<div style="text-align: center;">
The unveiling of the Empress Crystobel Memorial last week has inspired us to do a list featuring some of the major Royal and Imperial Statues that have been featured on this blog.<br />
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In 2013 the Duke of Swann visited Reichenthal and met up with his friend the Grand Duke at the Statue of the Imperial Eagle of Unification. <span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;">The massive solid brass statue was originally intended as a gift from the people of Reichenthal to Emperor Christian and Empress Crystobel of the United Empire in 1995 but ended up never being delivered due to the Revolution. It now stands as a testament of Reichentalian craftsmanship but also as a haunting reminder of a bygone era and a very personal one for the Duke of Swann of his deceased aunt. </span><br />
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The Empress Crystobel Memorial is erected on the site where the late Empress was assassinated in 2013. A previous Imperial Memorial was already on the spot and has since been removed for the new statue. Above is a photo of the old memorial which was a marble column surmounted by a stylized sculpted scene of the Empress and Emperor. </div>
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The new Crystobel Memorial centers around a black dolomite column surmounted by a solid brass statue of an angelic Nike or Victory meant to symbolize the victory of Empress Crystobel's legacy against all odds.<br />
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The recently restored statue of Queen Crystobel I of Scotney is in the gardens of the Aldarian Palace.<br />
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This small statue of King Edward VII of Britania has its place of honour in the Cathedral of the Lion Heart in the Britanian capital.<br />
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This Statue of the IV Duke of Swann, the father of the present Duke is situated in the gardens of Duke's Court Palace. It was unveiled as part of the Duke's 15th Anniversary Celebrations.<br />
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This unusual dodecahedron statue belongs to the Duke of Swann and was ordered from Reichenthal by the Duke's grandfather. It was intended for the palace gardens but for unknown reasons stayed in Reichenthal and was hidden with many other treasures in a secret vault only to be discovered last year. It has since been delivered to Swann and has featured in a State Portrait of the Duke.<br />
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The 2012 Ladies Arcwhite Statue symbolizes the Office of the Ladies Arcwhite and not any one particular incumbent. </div>
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On a recent visit to the Kingdom of Ophiri, the Duke of Swann was shown a traditional style sculpted head of Queen Ukulunghile's deceased. The sculpture was done by ethnic villagers according to the typical rural style of her country but still bore a remarkable likeness. </div>
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The imposing Statue of the Angel of Prayer at the entrance to the Cathedral of the Lion Heart is world famous and has extreme religious and historical significance. It was those traits that saved the 600 year old work of art and the entire cathedral from destruction during the 1996 Revolution. The solid brass statue stands almost 5 meters tall from the base of its pedestal to the tips of its outstretched wings. In its hands, the angel holds two hanging incense bowls which symbolize the prayers of the faithful. People arriving at the doors of cathedral instinctively stop at the imposing statue and are reminded to direct the attention of their hearts and their prayers to God. Like incense the angel is believed to rise up into God's presence whereupon God then may receive our prayers like a sweet smelling aroma. During a coronation ceremony, the incumbent monarch traditional deliberately stops at the statue for a few seconds for this very purpose. </div>
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Four gilded statues also have place of honour in the Cathedral of the Lion Heart's main hall. These four effigies are of what many consider to be the preeminent Biblical characters outside of Christ. The photo above depicts Moses. He carries a shepherd's crook as symbol of leadership and in his left hands the law of God stands for justice.</div>
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This war-like statue is of King David like the life of David in the Bible, stands for courage and humility. </div>
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The statue of John the Baptist symbolizes new beginnings and hope. </div>
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Finally we see the Apostle Paul who based on the story of his life stands for God's love being open to all peoples and laying down one's life for that very principle. </div>
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We hope this lesson in historic art and tradition was if nothing else beautiful to look at as all these statues are aside from their symbolic value also exceptional works of art. </div>
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-88321847678765903722015-06-05T06:32:00.001-07:002015-06-05T06:32:55.492-07:00Wonderful Weekends (2015 State Portraits of Lady Arcwhite)<div style="text-align: center;">
It's almost weekend and as such time for my favourite State Portrait slot. The Islands of Arcwhite have released a set of State Portraits of their sovereign, Lady Arcwhite. The photos are intended to show that stability has fully returned to the Islands after last year's political crisis that threatened a Order of the Veil fueled civil war. The crisis was averted and it has taken several months for the islands to return to normality. The State Portraits are only the second of their kind in history as the tradition was always to not photograph the Lady Arcwhite. The current sovereign has for years now set new precedence and these photos seem to be setting a new mood after the ignominious fall of the notorious Order of the Veil.<br />
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Lady Arcwhite looked radiant photographed in the Arcwhite Throne Room. In another break with precedent she opted to wear silver instead of the traditional white. </div>
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Lady Arcwhite paired her silver dress with faux fur and the unbelievable Arcwhite sapphires. </div>
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It seems that Arcwhite's smile and positive demeanour hints at a future, safe in the hands of this resilient .<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-17723281181327530102015-06-02T23:20:00.001-07:002016-07-20T23:49:41.814-07:00What's Up Wednesday (Empress Crystobel Memorial)<div style="text-align: center;">
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With the Imperial Coronation literally only a few weeks away yet another glorious tip of the hat to the past was gestured with the unveiling of the Imperial Victory Memorial in Londinium this week.<br />
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The memorial was built over the last few months in remembrance of the upcoming anniversary of Empress Crystobel's death that tragically took place on the 8th July 2012. This falls in conjunction with the popularity the entire concept of Royalty and the restoration of the Scotney and Britanian monarchies. The new site is erected in the square at the Palace of Parliament on the exact spot where the Empress was shot in front of the previous memorial in honour of the Imperial Couple. The old memorial was entirely torn down and plans to honour the Empress's life and death was immediately put in place. Work was finally completed last week Friday and the unveiling took place yesterday afternoon.</div>
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The design of the memorial is of a columned half circle surrounding a central pedestal surmounted by a brass effigy of an angel holding a flaming torch. The angel is intended to be a symbol of victory through spiritual perseverance while following the inner call of true conviction. </div>
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The truly imposing memorial does much to evoke hope from forgiveness into a far more positive future as these are the very traits Empress Crystobel is now remembered for. </div>
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For the unveiling the new Emperor Christian-Victor and Empress Odeliah was joined by their closest family who at the same time represented some of Europa's most famous Royal Dynasties. The Duke of Swann flew in especially, immediately after his now famous abdication speech in order to support his cousin the Emperor. All the VIP's can be seen in the photo above starting from left: Princess Augusta, the Duke of Swann, Empress Odeliah, Emperor Christian-Victor, the Chancellor of Britania, the Grand Duke of Hanoveria and Grand Duchess Alice.</div>
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The Chancellor took this auspicious occasion as the perfect time to officially announce his personal joy at the tide of Royal popularity and the positive effect it has had on the Britanian economy. </div>
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Emperor Christian-Victor shared some of his personal memories of his mother, Empress Crystobel's life and expressed his joy at finally giving her the honour she may have lacked in her life of exile and her tragic death. </div>
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It was truly an emotional moment when the crowd responded with a standing ovation to the Emperor's speech.<br />
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The brass statue is a spectacular work of art and was sculpted by the Most Worshipful Society of Britanian Metalworkers.<br />
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Empress Odeliah looked colourful in her spring inspired dress and hat.<br />
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A very stylish Duke of Swann looked far less serious than normal in his yellow tie.<br />
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After the day's proceedings a surprise dinner was held for the V.I.P's at the Aldarian Palace as a cherry on the cake. In memory of the lifelong efforts of Empress Crystobel, four special Royals were earmarked to receive a once-off recognition award for their efforts in promoting the cause of Royalty on the International Stage. They were invited to this intimate gala dinner to receive their "Crystobel Award".<br />
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After the main course and with the dinner guests watching, the Emperor and Empress took to the stage and invited the honoured four to receive their awards.<br />
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Their Majesties, the Emperor and Empress of the United Empire, King and Queen of the Scots and Britanians.<br />
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The four selected members of the Europan Royal community were, from left: Queen Gloria of Normandia, the Duke of Swann, Lady Arcwhite and Queen Maria of Hispania.<br />
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The awards for Efforts to Promote the Cause of Royalty from left are: Best Royal Image, Most Noteworthy Male Royal, Most Noteworthy Female Royal and Friendliest Royal.<br />
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Best Royal Image might seem frivolous but Royal style does much for pushing the "brand" and showing the face of Royalty. Empress Crystobel was faultless in her appearance and always conveyed the perfect balance between regality and approachability. Lady Arcwhite was awarded this honour.<br />
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Friendliest Royal is awarded for being most in touch with the public and thus bridging the gap between the common man and the reigning dynasties. It also reflects popular opinion polls of the particular Royal in their home countries and quantifies the amount of charity work done in favour of the common man. Empress Crystobel was relentless in the field of charity and in the end reached levels of popularity that has solidified her iconic status. Queen Gloria received this honour.<br />
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Most Noteworthy Female Royal is awarded to the Royal who in light of and in spite of their position of privilege, power and responsibility has made the most quantifiable success of forwarding all the positive aspects of the concept of Royalty in their home country and on the international stage. Empress Crystobel is the quintessential " when life gives you lemons..." Royal and has done more through the worst era Royalty has ever faced, to end up " on top" even in death. Queen Maria reluctantly received this humbling award.<br />
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Most Noteworthy Male Royal like its female counterpart singles out the male equivalent. The Emperor, visibly moved, awarded this honour to: " my cousin and friend, hero of Europa" , the Duke of Swann. It is believed that this ceremony will be a once-off event, especially organised by the Emperor in his private capacity to personally honour those who have supported His Majesty and the cause of Royalty over the last decade. The event focuses even more media attention on the build up to the Imperial Coronation to take place on the 4th of July 2015.<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-53866413472131730432015-06-01T23:33:00.002-07:002015-06-01T23:33:52.947-07:00Tiaras and Trinkets on Tuesday (Exhaustive list of Crowns of the World)<div style="text-align: center;">
In the last two years we saw many historic treasures thought lost to history, return. Many of these items recovered are crowns from actual crown jewels collections. Let's take a look at a complete list of existing crowns to date.<br />
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Crowns in our list will only include those associated/worn by a monarch and his/her spouse and the crown/coronet worn by the heir if any exists. No consort tiaras will be listed here as we are aiming at making an exhaustive list of only the crowns still in existence in Europa<br />
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The Crown of St. Christian is the Sovereign Crown of Scotney but also served as the Crown of Britania from 1488 till 1546 when King Daniel ruled both Kingdoms in personal union. The Crown was thought looted and destroyed during the 1996 Revolution but was rediscovered in pieces early in 2015 and fully restored.<br />
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The Nuptial Crown of Scotney which was used also as the Consort Crown of Scotney by its Queens. Made in 1759 for the wedding of Queen Charlotte it was also thought lost during the revolution but was actually hidden in the safety of the Reichenthal secret vault where it was discovered amidst many other treasures in 2014.<br />
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The Imperial State Crown of the United Empire of Scot-Britania was made in 1993 for the Coronation of Emperor Christian of the United Empire of Scot-Britania. It survived the 1996 Revolution and today is the centerpiece of the Imperial Crown Jewel Collection.<br />
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The small Imperial State Crown or Consort Crown of the United Empire of Scot Britania was also made in 1993 for the Coronation of Empress Crystobel, Co-Regent of the United Empire. </div>
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The Crown Prince Imperial Crown of the United Empire of Scot-Britania is the altered Crown of the Crown Prince of Britania and served as the new Empire's Crown for the heir of the throne from 1993.<br />
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The Sovereign Crown of the Dukes of Swann has existed as the official Crown of the Realm since the inception of the Independent Principality of Swann.<br />
It is the oldest platinum jewellery piece in the world<br />
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The Consort Crown of Swann is a recent addition to the Crown Jewels of Swann made just after the Great War for the wedding of the Duke of Swann to Countess Suzanna of Pinhaar. As such it has since become the official "crown" worn by the Duchess Consorts where before they wore tiaras of their choice.<br />
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The Royal Crown of the Kingdom of Hispania is a new crown made to replace the medieval one destroyed during the 1996 Revolution. It does however contain gems and gold components taken from a far older crown that had fallen into disuse. That deteriorated crown used to create this new one, was originally used to crown a relic in the Royal Cathedral of St. Bartholomeas.<br />
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The Crown of Cataljone is the original 15th Century Crown of the then independent Principality of Cataljone. When the Principlality was annexed/conquered as part of greater Hispania in 1589 it became the crown of the heir to the Hispanian throne as the title of Prince of Cataljone was then also perpetually bestowed on the heir as well. The Crown was thought lost in the 1996 Revolution but survived with many other treasures safely hidden in the Reichenthal vault.<br />
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The Imperial State Crown of Ruskiana made in 1789 by Court Jeweller Bolinovich exist today thanks to the efforts of the Duke of Swann's great grandfather who smuggled it and the Consort's Crown out of Ruskiana before the outbreak of the Great War. They were safely hidden in a trunk in Hanoveria where they were discovered in 2013. The Crown is made from gold, silver, rubies and exceptionally large diamonds</div>
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The Empress Crown of Ruskiana was saved along with its larger male counterpart. Both crowns were made in the same style and materials although this one is far smaller in size. </div>
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The King and Queen's Crowns of Syldavia. The larger King's Crown is a medieval one known as the Crown of Ottokar I while the Queen's Crown is a new addition added by King Nikolas III at his private expense. </div>
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The Royal Crown of Hanoveria is a testament to the down-toned and relaxed monarchy. The Crown is rarely exhibited for State occasions and never worn. It was made in 1830 when the prestige of having Crown Jewels reached a peak in Europa. Although the Hanoverians had no traditional requirement for a Crown as national symbol this one was made and has become the official Crown of the Realm. </div>
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The brand new Crowns of Normandia were both made to replenish the ravaged coffers of the Normandian Crown Jewels. The smaller Queen's Crown was made in 2014 especially for Queen Gloria to wear tot the State Opening of Parliament. She had the Crown made at her own expense and has bequeathed it to the Nation as a permanent part of the National Crown Jewels. <br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Grand Princely Crowns of Wallachia are of a very early medieval design and manufacture. Manufactured in the 1300's from pure Wallachian gold and set alternatively with pear cut aquamarines and square cut amethysts. There are also Fleur d' Lys topped with Caspian Sea black pearls for the masculine crown and white pearls for the feminine crown. It was made for the legendary Prince Vlad III who needed new regalia after his treacherous brother stole and sold the original Crown Jewels to finance his rebellion.</span></span><br />
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The Hereditary Prince's Crown was made at the same time as it's two larger counterparts. It is just far smaller and it has been known that a ruling Prince would wear it to less formal occasions although it is technically meant for the heir to the throne.<br />
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Romagna's Royal Crown was found along with many other historic treasure in the now famous secret vault of Reichenthal.<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;">It was originally made to replace the old medieval crown that was destroyed in a fire in the Royal palace in 1802.</span></span><br />
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Franconia has recently had a new replica of the Crown of King Louis XV made to match the original Consort's Crown that was also found in the Reichenthal Vault.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;">Fulco D'Este, although a modern democracy that has ousted its monarchy, has retained its national symbols of which this Crown is the main feature. The Crown is made of iron and is symbolic more of the people of Fulco D'Este's independence than the former monarchs.</span><br />
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The Perlistan Crown Jewels are very distinctive in their design reflecting the style of the region. The Crowns are made from solid gold and Perlistani indigenous sapphires, emeralds and citrines. The heron feather in the 18th century Crown of the Shah is a centuries old symbol only allowed to be worn by the Shah himself. T<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;">he Empress Crown dates back a mere half a century. The reason being that in Perlistani traditional culture women had no public authority and where kept (culturally not physically) within domestic confines. As such the monarchy and Shah had no role for a consort seen in public. However, the old traditions made way for women to be allowed more public freedoms and thus the wife of the Shah gained a title, Shahbahnou and a crown in her role as consort.</span><br />
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The 1730 small Crown of Duchess Eleanore of Champagne is all that is left of the Crown Jewels of the Duchy of Champagne.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;">The 17th Century arched Crown of the Kings of Reichenthal rival any other in Europa and is a testament of the world famous Reichenthalian craftsmanship. </span><br />
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This early 14th Century Crown was made for Queen Sarah of Reichenthal and was since then used as the Queen's Crown. It is the oldest Crown in the Reichenthal collection.<br />
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The Crown of Danielovich I of Serbieski is a symbol of great historic pride and the oldest Crown in Europa. It was made in 1250 for Danielovich I and is considered a holy relic by the fiercely territorial people of Serbieski. It has served as the Crown of the first Krulls (tribal chiefs), Kings and now Grand Dukes of Serbieski. It was also thought destroyed at a stage but was recovered from the Reichenthal Vault where it was safely hidden.<br />
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Monagask has no crown per sé but a 2000 year old gold wreath was discovered by archeologists and is assumed to have belonged to rulers of the first settlers in the region.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.7900009155273px;">The Islands of Arcwhite do not employ symbolic Crown Jewels per s</span><span style="background-color: white;">é but they do have this Medieval Headpiece that is one of the oldest diadems in all of Europa and is worn during event of high formality in Arcwhite. </span></span><br />
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Ophiri monarchs are considered crowned by the sun itself and so also share a dignity with all men<br />
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The Crown of Britania made in 1680 as a statement of independence by the Britanian "rebel" King John and used into the 20th Century is documented as destroyed by the 1996 Revolutionary government who sough to eradicate all things linked to the previous monarchy.<br />
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We hope this list has served to inform and inspire as we build up excitement towards the July 3rd Imperial Coronation.<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-21063801529197085512015-06-01T05:54:00.000-07:002015-06-01T05:54:14.348-07:00Breaking News (Swann Abdication Part 2 - Ceremony)<div style="text-align: center;">
Following last week's announcement from the Principality of Swann we post the latest update in the abdication saga. In what has been called the most bittersweet moment of the century the "Hero of Europa" as he was informally named by his cousin the Emperor, the Duke of Swann, signed his Instrument of Abdication at Duke's Court Palace today in order to serve God in a more "spiritual" way. </div>
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The Palace and old city of Swann was abuzz with the news which most citizens consider to be inspiring. The Duke of Swann invited a news crew to film the day's proceedings.<br />
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To start, His Royal Highness unveiled a new painting he had painted over the last few months as he wrestled with the Mithrandir's offer to succeed His Holiness. The painting symbolizes the Duke's decision to accept the offer and the consequences upon his own life.<br />
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The painting is of a flaming swan rising into the air from the pond upon which it rested. The symbol of the swan is representative of the Duke taking flight into his new future as Mithrandir. The fire represents the spiritual nature of the call to the office of the Mithrandir and the pond represents His Royal Highness' life up until now. It is poignant that the swan remains a swan even though it takes on a new supernatural form. This alludes to the Duke's identity and familial roots that will always remain the predominat flavour of personality even though his office may change.<br />
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After the unveiling of the painting, the press were treated to a mid-morning tea while the Duke got dressed for the formal ceremony. The ceremony saw His Royal Highness in uniform and regalia giving a short speech detailing the events and his intent.<br />
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His Royal Highness the Duke of Swann making his abdication speech as broadcast to the world. </div>
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The Instrument of Abdication was then signed.<br />
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The Hereditary Prince of Swann, Prince Dillon was also in attendance to acknowledge him as the preeminent successor to the throne of Swann at this pivotal point. If the Mithrandir dies, then the Duke of Swann will succeed His Holiness and Prince Dillon would become the new Duke of Swann.<br />
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A photo opportunity was given to the press.<br />
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After the short ceremony and photos, the Duke of Swann and Hereditary Prince appeared on the palace balcony to acknowledge the crowd awaiting the finale of the morning's proceedings. </div>
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A happy and still very popular Duke of Swann has now embarked on his new path while still remaining in office. He is expected to officially visit the Mithrandir in the near future to receive His Holiness' Blessing of Induction into the Office of Grey Cardinal. </div>
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Prince Dillon looked remarkably elated on the balcony as he waved. He is the fresh face of the future of Swann and bring a colourful anticipation with a broad smile.<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-23993813887655845872015-05-28T22:41:00.001-07:002015-05-28T22:41:23.012-07:00Wonderful Weekends (2015 Official Portrait of Grand Duchess Xenia Alexandrovna)<div style="text-align: center;">
We start this Wonderful Weekend early on a Friday. With excitement growing for the upcoming Imperial Coronation on the 3rd of July, some preeminent Royal personages are catching the wave by releasing official portraits.<br />
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This weekend our blog was granted first publishing rights for the new portrait of H.I.H. Grand Duchess Xenia Alexandrovna, pretender to the Imperial Throne of Ruskiana.<br />
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For this official portrait the Grand Duchess wore the Ruskian Pink Diamond Tiara, the most valuable and most official tiara of the former Imperial Crown Collection. </div>
The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-6694081727503838012015-05-26T22:37:00.000-07:002015-05-26T22:37:00.557-07:00Breaking News (Swann Abdication Part 1 - Referendum and Imperial Consent)<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>An Official Report from the Principality of Swann: </b><br />
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His Royal Highness, the Prince Daniel, by Grace of God, Sovereign Duke of Swann has declared that he will assume the Most Holy Honour of Grey Cardinal in Succession of the Mithrandir. </div>
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Upon the passing of the Mithrandir, Prince Daniel will renounce all earthly obligations and become the next Mithrandir. He will then be succeeded by the Hereditary Prince of Swann, Prince Dillon who will then become the new Duke of Swann.<br />
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It is reported from Swann that, the Mithrandir made his desire for the Duke to become his successor known during last year's Arcwhite crisis when both His Holiness and the Duke worked closely to avert disaster. There was no obligation placed on the Duke to comply to the Mithrandir's request but the opportunity is of such a nature that finally the Duke chose in favour of it after months of thought and purported prayer. It is a very exciting yet bittersweet time for Swann and its beloved Duke as now His Royal Highness, after years as sovereign, may look forward to serve in an even higher call than that as ruler of Swann.<br />
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The Duke of Swann is seen above making the Royal Declaration this morning from Duke's Court Palace. It is officially viewed as a type of abdication but in stasis, where the Duke of Swann does not directly step down from the throne but has it on hold for the future event of the Mithrandir's death. The final announcement was made after an internet referendum run over the last two weeks. The results of the poll showed 89% of Swanobian citizens in favour of the Duke following his heart, especially in pursuit of this particular vocation of international self sacrificial service. The poll was run to gauge popular opinion as a courtesy to his people, as in the Principality of Swann, the Duke's autocratic power does not require a referendum to sanction his acts of state. It is now being written into law and after some ceremonials to follow, will be signed and enacted. Once done, the Duke will continue to rule as normal but will begin focussing more on being discipled by the Mithrandir. As such, His Royal Highness will gradually pass more Royal duties to Prince Dillon in order to teach him to become accustomed to his future role as ruler. The unmarried Duke will also officially then be committed to celibacy. He will also have the style Eminent Highness and title of Grey Cardinal added to his own.<br />
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His Royal Highness was officially visited earlier this week by his cousin the new Emperor and Empress of the United Empire. The visit was a friendly courtesy and show of familial support in this very special time. The Emperor was the first to know of the Duke's decision before today's official announcement and flew over to see his cousin in person on Sunday. These private photos of the visit was made available to this blog especially for our report. The Duke of Swann was also very happy to show his support and excitement in return for the upcoming coronation of the Emperor on the 3rd of July.<br />
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Empress Odeliah looked radiant on what most consider to be a farewell of sorts as both the Duke of Swann and the former Crown Prince Imperial embark on entirely new life directions.<br />
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A poignant handshake was recorded on camera as the future Mithrandir is congratulated by the new Emperor. A new day dawns for Europa and indeed the world.<br />
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God save His Royal Highness, Prince Daniel, the Duke of Swann, Prince of the United Empire, Knight of the Order of the Diamond Star, Grand Master of the Order of the Purple Swann and Eminent Grey Cardinal.<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-85262963727666769092015-05-19T22:34:00.000-07:002015-05-19T22:34:48.541-07:00What's Up Wednesday (Emperor Christian-Victor Tours Scotney and Britania and Visits Nobles)<div style="text-align: center;">
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His Majesty King Christian-Victor of the Scots and Britons, as the Emperor is known in his home countries, has made a quick tour of the Britanian Isles with his wife Queen Odeliah. The tour is to publicly present himself to his people in this time building up to the coronation in July. As part of the tour that had him visit public parks, museums and government building he also made formal stop overs at three of the premiere Noble Peers of the Realm. </div>
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The King and Queen used a small chartered jet to fly to their first stop, the Britanian city of York where they were scheduled for a walkabout outside the City Hall before sitting down to a lunch with the Mayor of York. They were greeted by an excited crowd which had gathered for hours before the Royal arrival.</div>
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The positively spectacular Royal couple was said to enjoy the walkabout tremendously taking almost half an hour to greet and chat to ecstatic onlookers. </div>
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The Queen-Empress stole the limelight but not selfishly by adding shine and glamour to the more reserved King-Emperor. who seemed to prefer the cameras favouring his wife.</div>
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From York the Royal couple drove the short distance by car over the border to Glen Coe Castle in Scotney. The ancestral home of the Earl's Dysart was to put them up for their first evening of the tour as the guests of the Duke and Duchess of Argyle. </div>
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The Duke and Duchess of Argyle were the highest ranking Nobles in Scotney to host the Royal Couple and prepared a banquet in their honour of their monarch. The Duchess of Argyle, also Countess Dysart, was more than thrilled to entertain the King and Queen in her Castle. </div>
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Queen Odelia looked radiant in a purple evening gown and the historic amethysts bought a couple of weeks ago at auction. </div>
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The Duke and Duchess looked their stylish selves as usual.<br />
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The Duchess wore the Dysart Amethysts piared with a snakeskin metallic print dress.<br />
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The historic Amethyst Parure is a new addition to the Imperial Jewellery Collection and had its first outing.<br />
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After a tour of some places of agricultural interst on the Scotney border the King and Queen flew back down to Britania and Castle Sherwood, the Family Seat of the Dukes of Marlboro.<br />
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The Duke and Duchess of Marlboro were the highest ranking Britanian Nobles to receive the Royal couple and also hosted a banquet in their Majesties' honour. The Marlboros are the biggest sheep farmers in the country and as such merited an Imperial visit aside from the Noble ties.<br />
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The Queen chose a red metallic dresspaired with diamonds and pink pearls.<br />
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The Duchess wore the Marlboro Family Tiara and was said to truly enjoy hosting the Imperial couple.<br />
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There were times when the Queen-Empress had to go at the glamour alone while her husband attended to the more "boring" engagements. Here she is seen one evening by herself attending the opening night of a theater production in the Scotney Capital while the King-Emperor was at a meeting discussing tourism in the extreme north of Scotney.<br />
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The tour was a great opportunity for Queen Odeliah to really showcase some of the Imperial jewellery and that she did. Here we see her wearing the rubies she inherited from Empress Crystobel on their first public outing.<br />
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Finally another dinner with the Marchioness of Londonderry on the way back to the Aldarian Palace. The Empress had more opportunities to wear a tiara in this week than she normally gets over a 6 month period. As such she gave her new amethysts a second outing. Traveling with so much historic jewellery is a logistic and security nightmare so she had to limit her options slightly.<br />
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The Marchioness looked radiant in a turquoise dress and the Londonderry Tiara.<br />
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Queen Odeliah added some variety by wearing the necklace along with the rest of the parure.<br />
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The Marchioness was quoted to be very honoured by the Royal visit and hopes that the restoration of the monarchy would bring prosperity to all the people of the Scot-Britanian Isles.<br />
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As we move closer to the coronation the atmosphere is gradually building up to the greatest excitement felt in decades.<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-81872571961007404282015-05-12T22:00:00.000-07:002015-05-12T22:00:27.962-07:00What's Up Wednesday (The Crown Jewels of Franconia Display)<div style="text-align: center;">
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Taking its ques from the recent developments in Scotney and Britania, Franconia has not been one to lag behind when it comes to topics of national pride. With the recent resurgence of Royal popularity all over Europa, Franconia has also done its part to reconstitute what may be seen as a National Crown Jewels Collection for the sake of remembering and preserving history. The main incentive in this endeavour was the miraculous discovery of the Franconian Royal Queen Consort Crown in the secret vault in Reichenthal. The truly historic find of a national treasure though lost to history caused a public outcry for preserving it and its historic legacy in the context of a national museum. The head of the Royal House in pretense to the Franconian throne, Prince Louis D'Pont Du Lac seized the opportunity to get involved. With funding from the Bank D'Rothchild and the government plans for a national exhibition center focused on the Royal History of Franconia was set in motion and is now finally completed.<br />
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His Royal Highness, Prince Louis D'Pont Du Lac now elevated to Prince of Franconia, agreed to accompany our photographer on a small tour of the new exhibit.<br />
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The Chateau Lafitte in Lyon will henceforth be the permanent home of the national exhibit.<br />
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This photo shows the main exhibition area where the Crown Jewels of Franconia, inclussive of the new replica crown, the historic Queen's Crown and the Goutte De La Mer Sapphire Tiara will be displayed. </div>
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Prince Louis poses for a photo-op in the new exhibition hall. </div>
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The Crown of Franconia, a modern replica made to exactly copy the original crown in appearance and materials, can be seen in its pride of place under its reinforced glass dome.<br />
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The Queen Consort's Crown shares a similar home...<br />
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...and so does the historic tiara, set with one of the world's largest and most valuable sapphires. </div>
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Prince Louis confessed his hopes that the exhibit will attract many visitors and tourist and thus be of an educational and publicity value and an economic contribution to Franconia. The Prince and his family also stand to gain from their own private investment and so to take even greater steps in becoming more and more of a diplomatic force for their country.<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-37161558085944882562015-05-10T13:19:00.002-07:002015-05-10T13:19:51.713-07:00Memory Monday (Last Official Portrait Photo Shoots of Empress Crystobel)<div style="text-align: center;">
We are fast approaching the coronation to be held on the 3rd of July but what we must not forget is that two years ago close to the end of June 2013 Empress Crystobel was assassinated on a friendly diplomatic visit to Britania. Being the previous co-ruler of Scot-Britania and the mother of the now restored monarch of Britania and Scotney it seems appropriate after yesterday's Mother's Day Celebration, that we make mention to the Empress in some posts leading up to the coronation.<br />
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The Empress Crystobel has never ceased to been mentioned in the media and rightly so with the cosmic rise in popularity of the former Royal and then Imperial Family of Scotney and Britania. Now with the restoration of those monarchies and the advent of King Christian-Victor's election to the title of Emperor is is even more relevant to make regular mention of his illustrious mother. Providence had it that some archive photos have come to light from the Aldarian Palace as renovations took place over the last few months. A set of entirely forgotten portraits of Empress Crystobel was found still undeveloped in an old secretarial file cabinet in what was formerly the administrative office of the household staff. These photos have been developed and digitized especially for our post today. </div>
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The photos depict the Empress in 1994 shortly after the creation of the Empire, posing officially in a resplendent silver dress and family jewellery within the Cathedral of the Lion Heart for what must have been a range of photos intended to be State Portraits. The style of the photos however are extremely relaxed and not as formal as one expects from State Portraits. These exude a softness that lend them an esoteric feel inviting the onlooker into what seems to be a more intimate glimpse into the Empress life albeit set in the historic and austere setting of the cathedral.<br />
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Empress Crystobel, in this haunting photo is clearly an Empress but appears almost ethereal as it seems like she is hovering toward the onlooker.<br />
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A gentle yet pensive smile can be seen as Empress Crystobel avoids eye contact in this close up. The avoidance of eye contact ironically just seems to draw the onlooker deeper into the photo. <br />
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Here Her Imperial Majesty, appropriately and serenely pose at the Imperial throne upon which her and her husband was crowned. At the moment of crowning she publicly accepted the heavy burden of responsibility to be the face and figurehead of an entire two nations.<br />
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The contrasts are clear as the beauty and regality of the photo also implies the gravitas and austerity of being Royal and being that before a people and God.<br />
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The highly artistic set of photos were taken by an unknown photographer as all records of the shoot have bee lost and nobody who may have memory of them are still alive after the 1996 revolution.<br />
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One sometimes forget that Empress Crystobel was also the Queen of Scotney in her own right and bore that title with pride before she became Empress. Being Queen was her first duty and also a separate commitment. She had a set of "new"State portraits taken in the capacity of Queen of Scotney almost a year after being crowned Empress. These photos were also thought lost but were found in the same file as the aforementioned set taken in the cathedral. Above we see one of the spectacular 1994 Scotney State Portraits. The negatives were in slightly better condition so allowed for better resolution upon development.<br />
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The last official time the Crown of St.Christian was used was for this 1994 set of State Portraits. It can clearly be seen in detail in this close up photo. Parts of the famous ruby parure was also worn for this photo along with the Order of the Diamond Star and the red Royal Mantel of Scotney. </div>
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We miss the Empress and truly enjoyed these long lost photos albeit with a bit of bittersweet reminiscence. However with the new day dawning we can but look forward to what it may bring.<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-9079597786166421832015-05-06T22:13:00.000-07:002015-05-17T08:40:19.134-07:00"To be or not to be" Thursday (Viscount Faraway)<div style="text-align: center;">
Today we will feature one of the most eligible bachelors and also rather controversial characters in our Royal circles. This is none other than the very handsome Viscount Faraway from Britania. Apart from his noble title he also serves as the current Second Sea Lord of Swann and beyond that is a volatile activist in matters concerning animal abuse and commercial exploitation in relation to marine life. </div>
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Born in Britannia in 1994, His Lordship Admiral Viscount Faraway has been a staunch vegan since childhood. He has always displayed a close, almost obsessive concern for animals balanced only by his tunnel vision in regards to physical fitness. His naval career began somewhat haphazardly, considering where he is today. The first vessel he served upon as a gung-ho 14 year old Naval Academy midshipman, the S.R.S. <i>Daring</i>, was sunk by a Scotney mine left over from the '96 Revolution. No lives were lost but the young Jack was briefly famous when word of him wading the flooding decks to rescue the ship's dogs reached the press.<br />
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This photo displays the 10 year old Lord Jack Faraway cuddling one of the kids from the family estate.<br />
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During the revolution, in which his father died, the two year old Faraway and his mother fled to Swanobia. His mother had served the Empress Crystobel as Lady-in-Waiting for years and now had the burden of raising her son as a single mom and also far below the means she was accustomed to. She did however make a success of it through hard work and shrewd financial choices in regards to her son's Switzer trust fund. Growing up at the coast, the young boy was frequently in trouble for sabotaging local fishing vessels, and had to be bailed from prison a couple of times. His youth and exuberance however spared him a conviction. He was also very popular with the town's girls miraculously not needing to ever marry as yet.</div>
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As soon as was possible, Faraway joined Swann's Royal Naval Academy, graduating swiftly. After the incident upon the <i>Daring</i>, the young Viscount had his first, albeit brief, encounter with future friend Prince Daniel, the ruling Duke of Swann whilst at a press conference covering the tragic loss of one of the Kingdom's finest ships. The Duke shook hands with the flash-in-the-pan celebrity, bemusedly commending him for his gallantry, before posing for a single photograph.</div>
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Soon after, Faraway spent a tour in the Royal Oceanic Conservation Society which helped educate him towards his plans for becoming an activist/protester.</div>
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<span id="goog_2006473057"></span>Here we see Viscount Faraway posed for his official portrait in 2014. He is seen wearing his Family chain of office and the Order of the Polar Star. Behind him is a coronet of rank for a Viscount of the Realm.<br />
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His Lordship, Jack Hyland, 3rd Viscount Faraway is, regardless of his swashbuckling pretense, a true Nobleman in the Peerage of Britania and Scot-Britania. He has also received the high honour of being inducted into the Ruskian Order of the Polar star for his work in animal conservation. In 2014 His Lordship was offered the position of Second Sea Lord of Swann and has been its youngest incumbent. The role is a largely ceremonial and advisory one and serves to be the Duke of Swann's direct liaison to the Swanobian Navy. <br />
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The Family Crest of the Viscountcy of Faraway is drawn from the family's close connection to the sea which did not originate with the 3rd Viscount but with his grandfather, the 1st Viscount Faraway who was elevated to the peerage by King George V of Britania.<br />
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Recently Viscount Faraway was involved with the Principality of Swann and indeed the world's most advanced sea rescue vessel as a consultant sea commander. His input and passion was invaluable in streamlining the program upon its launch into international waters.<br />
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The good looking young bachelor has since all the above begun to take the world by storm as an eligible trust fund heir. He has been romantically linked with a runway model, and an Olympian fencer. A night out with Lady Arcwhite had the paparazzi going wild and the gossip columns going even wilder but nothing has seemingly come of that, except that Lady Arcwhite was reported to say that she found the topic of a vegan diet "fascinating".<br />
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The Viscount has many interests and tried his hand at many hobbies. Among these have been rock climbing, fencing, scuba diving, bodybuilding, historic fire arms and period airplanes. He has even dabbled in movie making and there is talk of the Duke of Swann and the Viscount possibly producing a period drama film or series.<br />
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Last week the Viscount had a dream come true by being allowed to take a fully restored Bi-plane for its first flight since the turn of the former century. He was deeply involved, practically and financially, in its restoration as a museum piece.<br />
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It seems His Lordship has broad and bright horizon in view ahead of him. We expect much from him and will keep an eye on what exciting endeavours he finds himself in.<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-49214258153008351972015-05-05T22:39:00.000-07:002015-07-04T00:40:25.217-07:00What's Up Wednesday (Coronation 2015 Preparations)<div style="text-align: center;">
With expectation running high for the upcoming coronation of a new king and now Emperor to boot, preparations for the "event of the century" are fervently underway in the Scot-Britanian Isles. The governments of Scotney have both allocated budgets for the event that will co-labour with Emperor Chritian-Victor's own expenditure to make this truly a day to remember. The Europan Council is also committed to do their share even though the appointment of Emperor, is seen merely a bureaucratic announcement to them and a coronation ceremony was not expected but will now be included. The date has thus been set for Saturday the 4th of July 2015 making Friday 3rd a bank holiday. </div>
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The last event of such scale as this coronation promises to be, was the 1993 Coronation of Empress Crystobel and Emperor Christian of the United Empire of Scot-Britania. Most records and photos of that event was destroyed in the 1996 Revolution but some have survived. Above we see one of those very few photos of the Empress and Emperor on that day. It attests to its grandiosity and we can only wonder and be inspired as to how our new millennium coronation might look.<br />
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A photo of Princess Augusta also survived seen here as she appeared at the 1993 Coronation. She chose, as per her preferences at the time extreme minimalism, wearing only the coronet and order of chivalry required by protocol. <br />
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Now let us take a look at some of the preparations for the upcoming event.<br />
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This is the Invitation template prepared to go out to all the dignitaries asked to the June 2015 Coronation.<br />
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Preparations are obviously in full swing with organizing venues, parades, jewellery etc. Local town councils are also setting up public viewing screens as many might opt for a open festivity rather than staying at home and watching it on television. Diplomatic arrangements and security management of visiting V.I.P.'s pose the biggest issues. Hotels are reporting highest recorded booking rates as people from all over the world plan to flock the streets on coronation day.<br />
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No detail is overlooked. Earlier this year many restoration projects were undertaken refurbishing much of Scotney and Britania's Royal historic artifacts and other treasure. Now they will be given full context in relation to the coronation. A small statue of King Edward VII in the Cathedral of the Lion Heart had taken some wear over the decades but has been totally restored and with the rest of the cathedral will be the central venue for the event. </div>
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The Cathedral of the Lion Heart is almost completely restored setting the stage for the coronation.</div>
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The cathedral has been closed to the public during restoration and now for preparation for the July event.<br />
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The public can follow the preparations here on our blogt. </div>
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The Throne of Scot-Britania has been moved to its coronation location in the north anex of the cathedral.<br />
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The Coronation Coach, kept at the Imperial Mews has also been restored and will definitely be used to carry the new Emperor to and from the cathedral during the processional parade through the streets of Londinium.<br />
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Madame Frumsetta, world famous couturier, has been asked to restore the blue Imperial Robes of State to their former glory. The red Royal Robes on the other hand have been sent to a Scotney Couturier for the same treatment.<br />
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The Imperial Robes of State can be seen in this photo being inspected and fitted onto the Imperial couple.<br />
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Emperor Christian-Victor can be seen admiring the detail on his wife's robe. </div>
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This photo alludes to the upcoming grandeur of the coronation ceremony as Empress Odeliah strikes a regal pose next to the Emperor. So our imagination starts to wonder in expectation.<br />
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The flags of both countries, Scotney and Britania have been altered to commemorate the change from democracy to democratic constitutional monarchy. <br />
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Britania's flag as a monarchy.<br />
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Britania's flag as it has been from 1996 till 2015.<br />
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Scotney's monarchic flag.<br />
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Scotney's flag as a democratic republic.<br />
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In preparation for the coronation the Mausoleum of the former Emperor and Empress of Scot-Britania have also received attention.<br />
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The Imperial Mausoleum was visited by Emperor Christian-Victor and Empress Odeliah this week to remember the Emperor's parents and to celebrate their legacy and the restoration of monarchy.<br />
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It was as much a moment of symbolic statesmanship as a very private and what must have been an emotional one for the Imperial couple.<br />
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Their Majesties even in personal reflection did look sufficiently regal, again alluding to a colourful, inspiring and hopeful future as Emperor and Empress. It seems that forgiveness and time does heal all wounds and where great tragedy and loss has sought to destroy now a new day is about to dawn.<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-24779197073404313812015-04-27T22:05:00.000-07:002015-04-27T22:05:07.325-07:00Tiaras and Trinkets on Tuesday (Royal and Historic Jewellery in Museums Part 2)<div style="text-align: center;">
The Franconian State History Museum has received a Royal gift to mark contemporary jewellery design. The gift was sponsored by Princess Augusta and donated to the museum as a record of design in jewellery for the first part of the new millennium. The piece, a tiara, was specifically made for exhibition purposes and thus has never been worn by anybody except posed by Princess Augusta for this particular photo shoot commemorating the event. This is to at least allow the tiara its proper context once. </div>
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The platinum and diamond tiara can be seen in this detailed photo. It is of obvious modern design with clean lines and an overall futuristic look that will make it look not out of place in a Sci-Fi epic. The piece was made by Franconia's top jewellery firm, Bartier and as such stands as testament of the pinnacle of Europan craftsmanship.<br />
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Here Princess Augusta poses with he gift.<br />
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Here the tiara can be seen in detail in its proper context for the first and only time. It will from now on be exhibited at the museum in its Contemporary Jewellery Exhibition Hall.<br />
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On the other hand a historic jewellery piece from the Franconian Royal Collection, the Goutte de la Mer Sapphire Tiara will be leaving the museum.<br />
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The sapphire tiara may be returned to join the newly established Franconaian Crown Jewel Exhibit at the Chateau Lafitte in Lyon which means we may see it worn by a meber of the Franconian Royal Family in pretense or in an official photo if Prince Louis of Franconia ever gets married.<br />
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The Goutte de la Mer Sapphire Tiara was originally made in 1804 for Princess Marie Louise, Duchesse D'Angelille upon her marriage to the Duke of Viletta. She was the only surviving female granddaughter of the last King of Franconia. She died childless and her jewellery was dispersed through her husband's family descendants until in 1990 the tiara was purchased by the museum.</div>
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-3445255106841141992015-04-26T14:06:00.000-07:002015-04-26T14:06:13.792-07:00Memory Mondays (Style Icons 7 the Duke of Swann)<div style="text-align: center;">
His Royal Highness the Duke of Swann is the quintessential Royal, statesman and average man rolled up in one. His public role however places an expectancy on him to represent his country and to look the part. He has never failed in this in the arenas of style, fashion and protocol laden Royal tradition.<br />
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For his 2004 coronation the Duke of Swann, 21 years old at the time was obliged to wear what protocol dictates and had no free will. His job was to look the part of a reigning monarch and to look it successfully, which he did with flying colours. The photo above was taken at the ceremony and served as his official portrait.<br />
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Contrastingly in casual dress, with his shirt untucked, His Royal Highness still looks regal. Could it be the antique car and manor house or is it a natural bearing? Everything about His Royal Highness seems to come together to give the public a rounded impression of himself with the casualness always shining through even if it is just in the smile.<br />
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The hardworking Royal is committed to several charitable causes and as such is often called out to far out rural areas where he has to not just show face but actually work. Here the choice of clothing is casual but has to keep a slight air of authority as well seeing as lots of funding has to be accounted for.<br />
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To the manner and position born, the Royal limelight of official state occasions consisting of glittering ball rooms and heads of state is where the Duke is most accustomed. In this context, dress uniform is more common than tuxedos and heavy chains of office and other paraphernalia compete to encumber the wearer. The common man might say of a formal night out: "I wish I didn't have to wear a tie." A reigning monarch might wish he was. His Royal Highness however always makes it look like a breeze.<br />
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In dress uniform again in 2012 the Duke and his family show unity in complimentary colour choices.<br />
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For State Visits Tuxedos may be worn given the context, as was the case in Wallachia in 2014. The Tuxedo is another one of the Duke of Swann's completely conquered arenas as this photo proves.<br />
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As a Spanish dancer His Royal Highness trains a lot and even in rehearsal looks dashing. Then again, the posturing learnt in and required from this style of dance will do anybody a great service in their appearance. </div>
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On stage the full effect of the Spanish dancer is unmistakably impressive. </div>
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The hardworking, passionate and truly down to earth Royal Head of State has never set a foot wrong when it comes to his public appearance. We can all but wait to be impressed again whenever this red carpet regular is scheduled to appear before the media glare. </div>
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-50073599749062722372015-04-22T06:39:00.001-07:002015-05-13T05:28:05.199-07:00 Breaking News (Europan Council Declares Emperor)<div style="text-align: center;">
After a tabling of possible candidates for the proposed role of Emperor in Europa on Monday this week, a final verdict has been reached.<br />
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It is official, the Crown Prince Imperial, King of the Scots and King of the Britons was unanimously elected by the Europan Government Council as Emperor. His Majesty has officially accepted the offer via phone to the Chairman but is expected to make an announcement on SNN News Live. Henceforth the former Prince Christian-Victor will be known as His Supreme Majesty, Emperor Christian-Victor of the United Empire, King of the Scots, King of the Britons and Crown Prince Imperial of Scot-Britania and all her Realms. His wife will bear the same feminine title but will be known as Empress Odeliah in short.<br />
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It was a already truly proud moment for the peoples of Britania and Scotney a few weeks ago when a restoration of their separate monarchies was announced. Now their nations will be represented in this very auspicious way by having their King presiding as ceremoniously Emperor of the States of Europa and chairman of the Europan Council in practice. </div>
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At the Europan Council Meeting it was also decided to use the already existing Crown Jewels as the Regalia for the newly created title of Emperor of the United Empire. His Majesty will be invested with these symbols of office as part of the coronations ceremony already planned for him in regards to his Royal role in the Kingdoms of Scotney and Britania.<br />
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The Emperor's personal standard will also be the very same one currently accepted as the Imperial Standard for the Head of the House of Aldarian.<br />
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We are all overwhelmed with excitement and can feel the tangible surge of festive jubilation beginning to grow as we look forward to a coronation. This will be the event of the century.<br />
Long Live the Emperor and Empress!</div>
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6955130815398694509.post-10360988019475027382015-04-19T18:54:00.000-07:002015-04-19T18:54:38.109-07:00Memory Monday (Reichenthal Royal Wedding)<div style="text-align: center;">
Time for a historic post. In 1997 Syldavia had abolished its national monarchy in favour of a democracy but did face the problem of having absorbed many small regions who were independent monarchies and fiercely traditionally ethnic before the 1996 Revolution. Subsequently the Syldavian civil war broke out and subdued these regions into submission to the greater democratic system. In principle these monarchies where also abolished to some or a complete degree but where some Royal Families were entirely exiled, the small region of Reichenthal signed a treaty with its new overlords. This agreement yielded all authority to the Syldavian government but allowed the King and the local customs to continue ceremoniously with absolutely no claim to governance or government funds. Thus King Lothair, who had ruled for a mere seven days after his father's assassination, yielded to the Syldavian Governor and was relegated to the obscurity of his mountain "Kingdom" to such a degree that Reichenthal soon completely faded into memory and legend. But life went on and "King" Lothair soon took a wife. <br />
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The Royal Wedding of Lothair, King of the Reichenthalians and Azantha, Princess of Perlistan took place in 1998 and was a fresh moment of joy and colour after all the dread that the 1996 Revolution had brought. The event was celebrated locally and did not even receive press coverage in the rest of Syldavia much less internationally. It was not however down toned in its Royal splendour.<br />
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The small Kingdom of Reichenthal is hidden away and was completely absorbed by the Syldavian democratic government which relegated it to a regional oddity but this wedding was a time for the local people to shine their local customs brightly among the democratic severity of their "Big Brother" state.<br />
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Reichenthal Castle is the venue for almost all the Royal events in the region and also served as the wedding venue in 1998.<br />
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Lothair, who could no longer be referred to as "His Majesty" or "King Lothair of Reichenthal", was still colloquially allowed "King of the Reichenthalians" following his name. Here we see him on his wedding day awaiting his bride's arrival in the throne room for the ceremony. The Crown of Reichenthal can be seen just behind Lothair on a golden pedestal.<br />
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Standing with Lothair was his soon to be sister-in-law, the pretender Shahbahnou of Perlistan, his best man the Baron Bagrazia and the Silver Cardinal.<br />
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The bride's sister was living in exile at the time of the wedding, hailing herself from the ousted monarchy of Perlistan. This was the last time the Shahbahnou was seen wearing this particular set of jewellery as she was forced by the Perlistani government to return them as a national historic treasure. She would only wear them again in 2014 after her exile restrictions were lifted.<br />
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Lothair's aunt, Princess Sonja, had been severely traumatised by her family losing so much status as a result of the civil war and almost couldn't attend the wedding for depression. She was however cheered up but the fact that so many, still reigning Royal Families, attended the wedding and was said to find the encouragement to attend herself by the prospect of seeing them. In this photo it is clear that Princess Sonja did not look her best on the day.<br />
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Some of the official diplomatic attendees at the wedding included Princess Suzanna of Wallachia...<br />
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...and Infanta Isabella of Hispania.<br />
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Alison Stadler-Diedricks of Alison Couture was responsible for the wedding dress and as a close friend of Princess Azantha was a very special guest at the wedding. Miss Stadler-Diedricks even procured a brand new diamond tiara especially for the event.<br />
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A trumpet fanfare announced the arrival of the Princess Bride.<br />
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The spectacular creme and gold embroidered wedding gown took everybody's breath away and did set a style precedent for years to come.<br />
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Princess Azantha complimented her dress and flowers with an official 17th Century tiara from the Reichenthal Crown Jewels and her dowry Perlistani Ruby necklace and earrings.<br />
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A full length photo of the bride's arrival and amazing gown.<br />
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This photo gives a good impression of the impressive gold net veil.<br />
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Finally the couple joined each other before the Silver Cardinal for the ceremony.<br />
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The actual ceremony was the first to be photographed in Reichenthal as Royal custom forbidding the sacred moment to be photographed was deliberately ignored by Lothair in light of the status of the Royal Family at the time. He also thought that a bit of modernizing might go a long way for charting a new future for himself and his people.<br />
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After the formalities the couple left the Castle for a small carriage procession through the streets of the Reichethal capital.<br />
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The Governor of Reichenthal, for the sake of the people's insistence, allowed a short procession utilizing primarily routes through public parks obstructing traffic to a minimum.<br />
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The Royal guests gathered to send the carriage off, which was to return to the castle about 35 minutes later for a balcony appearance and private reception.<br />
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Royal waves were obviously appropriate.<br />
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The obligatory posed photos for the press were first on the agenda after the procession.<br />
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These photos were also released to the public as pseudo state portraits commemorating the happy day.<br />
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God bless Lothair and Azantha, King and Queen of the Reichenthalians.<br />
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A large crowd was happy to receive the acknowledgement of the newly weds from the castle balcony.<br />
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The very next morning saw the couple leave early by Royal Train for their honeymoon at the Royal Hunting Lodge deep in the Reichenthal forest.<br />
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The Duke of Swannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06318218434956269004noreply@blogger.com6