#fictional monarchy

[whitmoreroyals]

Royal Customs & Ceremonies of Whitmore

The customs and ceremonies of the Whitmorian monarchy have developed over generations, blending royal tradition, court etiquette, and the spiritual teachings of the Jacoban faith. These practices help define the relationship between the Crown, the people, and the institutions of the kingdom.

Though some traditions have evolved over time, royal ceremonies remain an important expression of continuity, duty, and national identity. From royal weddings and state celebrations to court etiquette and sacred affirmations, these customs reinforce the enduring role of the monarchy in Whitmorian life.

Court Etiquette

Life at court is governed by tradition, protocol, and respect for rank.

While modern Whitmore is less formal than in previous generations, members of the Royal Family, nobility, clergy, and government officials continue to observe established customs during official engagements and state occasions.

Forms of Address

The traditional forms of address within the royal court are:

• The Monarch — Your Majesty • The Monarch's Consort — Your Majesty • The Crown Prince or Crown Princess — Your Royal Highness • Princes and Princesses — Your Royal Highness • Dukes and Duchesses — Your Grace • Earls and Countesses — Lord / Lady • Viscounts and Viscountesses — Lord / Lady • Barons and Baronesses — Lord / Lady

Bows and Curtsies

Traditional gestures of respect remain an important part of court life.

• Men customarily offer a slight bow of the head. • Women traditionally perform a small curtsy. • These gestures are most commonly exchanged during a person's first formal greeting with the Sovereign each day.

Though not legally required, these customs remain widely observed during official occasions.

The Sacred Affirmation

The Sacred Affirmation is one of the most significant ceremonies in Whitmore.

Upon the death or abdication of a Sovereign, the heir immediately succeeds to the throne. The Sacred Affirmation serves as the formal recognition of that authority before the nation and under the Jacoban faith.

Unlike the grand coronation traditions found in some monarchies, Whitmore does not crown its monarchs during an elaborate public spectacle. The Crown of Renard is displayed as the enduring symbol of royal authority, but it is not placed upon the Sovereign's head.

Venue

The ceremony traditionally takes place within the Jacoban Chapel at Renard Palace.

Historically, the Sacred Affirmation has been attended by members of the Royal Family, the Crown Circle, senior clergy, military representatives, and select officials of state. Though more restrained than the coronation traditions of some monarchies, it remains one of the most important ceremonies in Whitmore.

Attire

The Sovereign traditionally wears formal ceremonial dress rather than coronation regalia.

In modern Whitmore, this typically consists of a white ceremonial uniform or formal court attire worn with the State Sash of Whitmore and select dynastic orders. During the earliest reigns of the monarchy, however, these honors had not yet been established, and the Sovereign appeared in simple ceremonial dress reflecting the humble beginnings of the Crown.

The Crown of Renard, the Book of Jacob, the Royal Standard, and other symbols of the Crown remain present throughout the ceremony as visible reminders of continuity between reigns. Their presence emphasizes that authority resides in the Crown itself, rather than in the ceremonial wearing of royal regalia.

Traditions

The ceremony includes:

• The Prayer of Divine Light • The Oath of Sovereignty upon the Book of Jacob • The Blessing of the Crown of Renard • The Public Affirmation of Authority • The Sovereign's First Address

The Sovereign's First Address is among the most anticipated moments of the ceremony. Delivered following the oath, it allows the new Monarch to speak directly to the nation for the first time and establish the guiding principles of the new reign.

Public Recognition

Following the ceremony, the Sovereign traditionally appears on the balcony of Renard Palace to receive the loyalty of the nation.

While the Sacred Affirmation remains a solemn ceremonial occasion, modern broadcasting has allowed portions of the ceremony and the Sovereign's First Address to be shared with the nation, strengthening the connection between the Crown and the people of Whitmore.

Recognition of the Consort

When a Sovereign is married at the time of accession, the spouse is formally recognized during the Sacred Affirmation.

If the Sovereign marries after ascending the throne, the spouse is recognized following the royal wedding through a formal declaration of the Crown.

The spouse of a King is recognized as Queen Consort, while the husband of a reigning Queen is recognized as Prince Consort.

The recognition of the Consort does not constitute a separate accession ceremony and grants no sovereign authority. Rather, it formally acknowledges the Consort's role in supporting the Crown and serving the nation.

Upon recognition, the Consort assumes the styles, honors, and ceremonial responsibilities associated with their position within the Royal House.

The Oath of the Heir

The Oath of the Heir is the formal ceremony through which the Heir Apparent publicly affirms loyalty to the Sovereign, the Crown of Renard, the Kingdom of Whitmore, and the Jacoban faith.

Although the position of Heir Apparent is acquired automatically by law upon meeting the requirements of succession, the oath is traditionally taken upon the heir's eighteenth birthday. The ceremony marks the beginning of the heir's official public responsibilities as the future Sovereign and their formal entry into royal service.

Traditionally held within the Jacoban Chapel at Renard Palace, the ceremony is attended by members of the Royal Family, the Crown Circle, senior clergy, and invited officials of state. During the ceremony, the heir swears to uphold the laws and traditions of the Crown, faithfully serve the people of Whitmore, preserve the legacy of the House of Renard, and defend the Jacoban faith.

Upon taking the oath, the heir formally assumes the ceremonial duties associated with the position and becomes eligible to undertake official engagements on behalf of the Sovereign throughout the kingdom and abroad. The ceremony serves not as the beginning of succession, but as the public affirmation of the heir's lifelong commitment to duty, service, and the future of the Crown.

The Accession Ball

Following the Sacred Affirmation, the Royal Family traditionally hosts the Accession Ball at Renard Palace.

Held on the evening of the Sacred Affirmation, the ball serves as the kingdom's principal celebration of a new reign. Members of the Royal Family, the nobility, government officials, foreign dignitaries, military leaders, and senior clergy gather to mark the beginning of the Sovereign's rule.

The evening begins with the formal arrival of the Monarch and Consort, followed by the Sovereign's first appearance before the assembled guests as Head of the House of Renard and ruler of Whitmore.

Tradition dictates that the first dance is led by the Monarch and Consort, symbolizing continuity, unity, and the beginning of a new chapter in the kingdom's history.

A Toast of Loyalty is offered by a senior member of the Crown Circle before the evening continues with formal dining, music, and dancing.

Though more celebratory than the Sacred Affirmation itself, the Accession Ball remains one of the most significant events in the Whitmorian royal calendar and serves as the public beginning of a new reign.

Royal Weddings

Royal marriages are regarded as sacred covenant unions under the Jacoban faith.

Historically, royal marriages often strengthened political alliances between kingdoms and noble houses. In the modern era, they continue to serve as important dynastic events while also reflecting personal commitment and public service.

Approval

Members of the Royal House who are in the direct line of succession must receive the Sovereign's formal consent before marrying.

Ceremony

Royal weddings may be held in chapels, cathedrals, palace grounds, or other approved venues, though Jacoban clergy traditionally preside over the ceremony.

Common elements include:

• The exchange of covenant vows • Invocation of the Watcher • A Jacoban blessing • A formal wedding procession • A state or private reception

Royal Jewels

Royal brides traditionally wear a tiara from the Royal Collection.

The selection of significant dynastic jewels is made in consultation with the Sovereign and reflects both family tradition and the importance of the occasion.

Royal Funerals

Royal funerals are conducted according to Jacoban tradition and serve as both a national period of mourning and a celebration of faithful service to the Crown.

Following the death of a Sovereign, an official period of mourning is observed throughout Whitmore. Flags are flown at half-staff, public ceremonies may be postponed, and memorial services are held across the kingdom.

The funeral itself is attended by members of the Royal Family, government officials, foreign dignitaries, military representatives, and senior clergy.

While mourning the loss of a monarch, the ceremony also affirms the continuity of the Crown. As succession occurs immediately upon the death of the Sovereign, the funeral marks both the end of one reign and the beginning of another.

Investitures and Royal Honors

Investiture ceremonies are held throughout the year to recognize exceptional service to the Crown and nation.

During these ceremonies, the Sovereign may bestow decorations, orders, honorary distinctions, and royal appointments upon individuals who have demonstrated notable achievement in public service, charity, diplomacy, military service, education, or the arts.

Certain royal styles and distinctions, including dynastic honors granted by the Monarch, may also be formally conferred during investiture ceremonies.

These events reinforce the Crown's role as the source of honor within the Kingdom of Whitmore.

The White Rose Gathering

The White Rose Gathering is an annual charitable event hosted by the Royal Family within the gardens of Renard Palace.

Named for the White Rose of Whitmore, the gathering brings together charitable organizations, community leaders, volunteers, patrons, and supporters from across the kingdom.

Throughout the event, participating organizations are invited to share their work, promote charitable initiatives, and encourage public involvement in causes that benefit communities throughout Whitmore.

Members of the Royal Family traditionally attend the gathering, meeting with representatives of participating organizations and supporting fundraising efforts for charitable programs across the kingdom.

The White Rose Gathering reflects the Crown's longstanding commitment to service, compassion, and the welfare of the people of Whitmore.

Royal Balls

Formal balls have long served as important social and ceremonial events within the monarchy.

These gatherings provide opportunities for royal hospitality, diplomatic engagement, and the strengthening of relationships between the Crown, nobility, and foreign representatives.

Moonlight Ball

Date: 20 December

Traditionally held on the eve of the Winter Solstice, the Moonlight Ball is considered the most prestigious annual social event hosted by the Crown.

The evening begins with a formal procession of the Royal Family and traditionally opens with the first dance of the Sovereign and Consort.

Summer Solstice Ball

Date: 21 June

Held during the Summer Solstice celebrations, this event takes place within the royal gardens and marks one of the most anticipated occasions of the social season.

The ball celebrates the longest day of the year and traditionally serves as the ceremonial opening of Whitmore's summer court season.

Royal Jubilees

Royal Jubilees commemorate significant anniversaries in the reign of a Sovereign and are among the most important celebrations of the monarchy.

Recognized jubilees include:

• Silver Jubilee — 25 years • Ruby Jubilee — 40 years • Golden Jubilee — 50 years • Diamond Jubilee — 60 years • Platinum Jubilee — 70 years

Jubilee celebrations may include civic ceremonies, commemorative services, charitable initiatives, public festivities, military displays, commemorative projects, and appearances by members of the Royal Family.

In Whitmore, jubilees are regarded not only as milestones in a Sovereign's reign, but also as opportunities to celebrate the enduring bond between the Crown and the people.

The scale and character of each jubilee are determined by the Sovereign and may vary according to the needs of the kingdom and the significance of the anniversary being observed.

Faith and the Crown

The Jacoban faith has shaped many of Whitmore's royal traditions for generations.

While the Crown governs independently of the clergy, royal ceremonies continue to reflect the kingdom's spiritual heritage. Weddings, accessions, memorial services, and national celebrations frequently incorporate Jacoban prayers, blessings, and symbolism.

Through these customs, the monarchy serves not only as a political and cultural institution, but also as a guardian of traditions that have helped define Whitmore since its founding.

[nxmuzluv]

mexican empire — trivia

The empire (that is more formally known as the Second Mexican Empire) was started in 1864 by Emperor Armando, Jacqueline’s great-great-great-great grandfather. He was a lieutenant general within the Mexican army, and after he forced French forces out of Mexico and ordered their surrender, due to his wealth and influence (as he hailed from a Cuban-Mexican old money family), he declared himself emperor of Mexico due to his desire for the Mexican empire’s restoration.

During the reign of Jacqueline’s great-great grandfather—Emperor Gustavo Hernando—a socialist and wannabe dictator named Álvaro Angel Hernandez created an anti-monarchy “party” that wished to abolish the Mexican empire due to seeing the (then current) imperial family as corrupt. The party gained members, notoriety, and infamy throughout Mexico, and Álvaro had even gained some power over Mexico City and its neighboring territories. Álvaro seemingly went mad and randomly decided to storm the palace in an attempt to overthrow Emperor Gustavo. That attempt was unsuccessful, and Álvaro was tried with heavy treason and sentenced to death by hanging. His execution sparked the Guerra del Palacio (the War of the Palace), and the conflict lasted for three and a half years.

With the empire’s power, and with the help of Brazilian, Cuban, and later American troops, the Mexican empire defeated Álvaro’s party and prevented being replaced with an authoritarian, socialist regime. Since then, the War of the Palace has been the only civil war that the imperial family has had to face.

Mexico has one of the wealthiest imperial families in the world, having a net worth of $10.5 billion, and placing them at 5th on the list of wealthiest monarchs in the world. All of that money belongs to the emperor, and it stems from Mexico’s investments in the oil industry and agriculture, their various exports (such as beer, chocolate, chilis, and tomatoes), the support from the Mexican citizens, and from the emperor’s own investments into large scale banks around the world. The $10.5 billion will be split between the emperor’s immediate family (his daughters and his eldest daughter’s three children) upon his death.

Mexico became the first monarchy in the world to implement absolute primogeniture (meaning any child can assume the role of heir apparent to the throne regardless of their gender) in 1914. It was proposed by Emperor Gustavo after the birth of his three daughters after the birth of his eldest son. He was worried about the potential extinction of the dynasty if his son either died or was unable to marry or produce a male heir, and Gustavo’s own lack of another male heir only increased his worries. To ensure that the dynasty would live on, he proposed the idea of absolute primogeniture to the Mexican government.

His proposal was taken into question, as back then, women were seen as “unfit” monarchs and were seen as incapable of ruling a country. However, due to much pushing by the emperor over the course of eight months, by a vote of 71–63, absolute primogeniture was officially adopted in Mexico in regards to the empire’s line of succession. The empire received its first female heir apparent upon the birth of Crown Princess (now Empress) Victoria in 1967.

Since 1873, the empire of Mexico has also been known as the United Empire of Mexico (or the Imperio Unido de México) due to the numerous conquests ordered by Emperor Armando. Countries under the United Empire of Mexico include the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Panama. From 1891 to 1959 (68 years), Cuba was also a part of the United Empire, and monarchs and their consorts held the titles of Emperor and Empress of Cuba.

The Second Mexican empire started off with a rather large amount of wealth, as its founder, Lieutenant General Armando José Enrique Velasco, hailed from a Mexican-Cuban old money family that was worth $16.4 billion ($302.5 billion in today’s money) by Armando’s father’s death in 1867. Upon his father’s death, the money was split between Armando and his brother, with both of them receiving $8.2 billion ($151.2 billion in today’s money). That fortune has been slightly diminished and restored over the years.

The Second Mexican Empire is an absolute, hereditary, and self-proclaimed monarchy. It was originally a semi-constitutional monarchy during Emperor Alphons’ reign, and during Emperor Fernando’s reign, it became a complete constitutional monarchy. The empire only became an absolute monarchy after its restoration. It is a self-proclaimed monarchy due to Emperor Armando declaring himself the emperor of Mexico after defeating the French.

Emperor Alphons—Armando’s eldest son—had the shortest reign of any Mexican monarch ever, as he only reigned for 11 years. He was known to be somewhat sickly from birth, and his sickness worsened later in his life, resulting in his early-ish death. Alphons was also said to be attractive during his youth and was quite the notorious playboy before he met his wife and consort, Josefina Ivette Isabel Correia, Lady Salvaterra, to whom he was distantly related to.

In his youth, Emperor Gustavo had quite the large selection of noble and royal ladies to choose from for marriage (or rather, for his parents to choose from). From that selection, he had wed Princess Helena Dorothea Maria Anna of Greece and Denmark, Viscountess Württemberg, a member of the Greek royal family and of the German noble House of Württemberg. However, they’re relationship was rocky and they seemed more like acquaintances than husband and wife, and just a year later, Gustavo and Princess Helena divorced. However, their marriage did bring the Mexican, Greek, and Danish royal/imperial families closer together, and it solidified their relationship for the next four generations. Princess Helena was never given the title of empress. A few months later, Gustavo married Agustina Natalia Sophia, Baroness of San Luis de la Paz, and the daughter of the Duke of Guanajuato.

Emperor José Manuel established the most international connections for the Mexican empire, ranking just below his son, Fernando. His marriage to Yoo Hyeryun, a middle class Korean native, was one of them, as well as his ally-ship with India, his friendships with the British, Greek, and Spanish royal families, and his push for exports and the offering of support to foreign allies. José Manuel also has the second longest reign of any monarch in Mexico, placing behind his son.

Emperor Fernando became the first Korean-Mexican to ascend to the imperial throne after his father’s death in 1960. He also has the longest reign of any Mexican monarch, and will uphold that title until his daughter can manage to surpass him.

Empress Victoria became Mexico’s first female regent in all its 139-year history, which caused her to also have the most viewed coronation since her father’s in 1960, amassing a total of 81.5 million people in Mexico and 24 million people worldwide. Meaning, a total of 105.5 million people had watched Victoria’s coronation. She also became the second mixed Korean to ascend to the Mexican throne.

Empress Agustina was known for introducing a lot of foreign customs to Mexico during her husband’s reign. She was known for her love of travel and for her interest in other (specifically European) cultures. She introduced the Scottish Lomond waltz to the Mexican imperial court, and had also introduced the concept of debutante balls to the country, as she established Empress Agustina’s Debutante Ball (Baile de Debutante de la Emperatriz Agustina) after attending Queen Charlotte’s Ball in London.

Dowager Empress Consuelo Teresa (or Yoo Hyeryun) became the first Korean woman to assume the title of empress (consort) of Mexico upon her husband’s ascension to the throne in 1928. She achieved massive notoriety due to this (and also due to her beauty), and further established positive connections between Mexico and South Korea. She also became known as the first commoner to marry into the imperial family, and became the first commoner to assume the title of empress consort. She is also the longest living empress in the empire’s history, being 102 years old by the events of Trigger Happy Havoc.

There had actually been a empress regent of Mexico prior to Victoria, although she wasn’t officially counted as a reigning empress like Victoria. Her name was Princess Josefina Maria Lupita, and she was Emperor Alphons’ older sister, and Emperor Armando’s first born child. Due to Mexico’s male preference primogeniture at the time, Josefina was misplaced at heir to the throne once her brother was born. She didn’t see it as an issue until she was in her thirties. Just a few months after Alphons was crowned, Josefina secretly mobilized a part of Mexico’s military, and had ordered them to storm her brother’s apartments within Chapultepec Castle

A few dozen were injured during that attempt of a “coup,” and two had died due to their injuries. Alphons originally thought that the attack was ordered by anti-royalists, but he later found out that it was ordered by his own sister. He was quick to declare war on Josefina, who was forced to flee to Costa Rica with the remainder of her troops. The war—which was named the “War of the Chrysanthemum”—lasted for only seven months, before it eventually came to a stalemate due to the intervention of the siblings’ mother. Alphons wanted to keep Josefina in Costa Rica, but was advised not to. After the war, the siblings never even looked at each other again, and Josefina moved out of Chapultepec Castle and into a separate estate

During the war, Josefina had triumphed over her brother for a short period of time (about a month or two) and had become Empress Josefina, and was “ruling” from Costa Rica. However, as she had never had a formal coronation and as she had an incredibly short reign, historians do not count Josefina as a true sovereign, and the title of “first empress regent of Mexico” officially goes to Victoria. Technically, however, it goes to Josefina

Emperor José Manuel’s brother, José Ramón, Jacqueline’s great-great uncle, had married Princess Alexandra-Beatrice of Battenberg, the youngest daughter of Princess Victoria of Hesse and by Rhine, and of Prince Louis of Battenberg. Alexandra-Beatrice—Jacqueline’s great-great aunt—was the great-granddaughter of Queen Victoria, making the former queen of the United Kingdom Jacqueline’s great-great-great-great-great grandaunt.

Jacqueline’s great-aunt—Princess Valentina of Spain—is married to Prince Georgios of Greece and Denmark, Jacqueline’s uncle, and her title upon her marriage became Crown Princess Victoria of Greece and Spain. Crown Prince Georgios was formerly King George III of Greece, while Princess Valentina was Queen Valentina of Greece, the country’s first Spanish queen consort. However, Georgios only ruled for two years, and he abdicated the throne in favor of his younger brother, the now King Constantine II of Greece. Due to the marriage between Valentina and Georgios, however, that makes the Mexican imperial family relatives to the Greek royal family.

King Constantine II is Jacqueline’s great-uncle and his wife, Queen Anne-Marie of Greece and Denmark, is her great-aunt. Crown Prince Pavlos is Jacqueline’s second cousin, once removed/uncle, and his wife—Crown Princess Marie-Chantal—is her aunt. Pavlos and Marie-Chantal’s five children are all Jacqueline’s second cousins. Furthermore, that makes Crystal Bienvenu (Jacqueline’s classmate) and her siblings Jacqueline’s third cousins (and they had no idea that they were that closely related).

The Mexican imperial family is incredibly popular among its citizens, and is said to be well loved. They are known to be a very progressive, casual, down-to-earth, and friendly family to the Mexican public, royal watchers, and to foreigners. They are also known for their close relationship despite their large number of members.

Despite their close relationship now, the Mexican imperial family was known as very rigid, somewhat cold, and had a nearly distant family life up until Emperor Gustavo’s marriage to Baroness Agustina Natalia Sophia.

Although the empire was previously abolished in 2003, after society was restored following the events of The Tragedy, Mexico was significantly affected by the world’s societal collapse and by a devastating war between the country and Cuba caused by The Tragedy, and in an overwhelming 125–9 vote, the Mexican empire was restored, the imperial family was allowed back, and Emperor Fernando got his political power restored. However, six months later, he abdicated the throne in favor of his eldest daughter and Jacqueline’s mother, Victoria.

During the holiday season and before Christmas, the imperial family sends out cards with a portrait of the entire family—both the Mexican imperial family and the extended Bourbon-Perez/Spanish royal family—on the front. 1,000 cards are sent out to random households in Mexico and around the world every year, and all of them are personally signed by the emperor and empress. Only 50 cards are signed by other members of the family. This tradition started during the reign of Emperor Alphons in the late 1800s, and had increased in popularity during the reign of Emperor José Manuel.

Christmas portraits of the emperor’s immediate family and individual portraits of members of the imperial family are also released before Christmas, as well.

The children of the family also make Christmas cards, write messages in them, and sign them for the palace staff. The messages usually thank the staff for their hard work throughout the year. Jacqueline is known for tying each of her cards with gold, red, or green ribbons, and she’s known for gifting the staff with homemade cookies, as well.

There is a Christmas tree located in one of the imperial family’s winter residences, and before Christmas, the family makes decorations to hang from the tree, and they also hang home baked cookies—that are mainly baked by Jacqueline—from it, as well. Additionally, the oldest or youngest child gets to place the star/angel on top (it depends on the year).

On Christmas Eve, a formal dinner is held at the family’s winter residence and includes only the family members and their close guests (such as friends and government officials with close connections to the imperial family).

Also on Christmas Eve, the imperial family usually plays soccer/football on the grounds of their winter residence. This tradition was started by Emperor Gustavo in the early 1900s. Currently, Prince Alejandro and Empress Victoria have won the most games. The imperial family also plays Monopoly on Christmas Eve, which was started by Prince Alejandro.

Alejandro and Jacqueline also skate on the pond on the grounds of the family’s winter residence on Christmas Eve, which was turned into an ice skating rink at Emperor Daniel’s request when his children were young. Additionally, the imperial family also plays ice hockey. In regards to that, Jacqueline and her teams have won the most games.

The Mexican imperial family usually attends church service at the Catedral Metropolitana on a Sunday before Christmas. On Christmas Day, they attend church again, no matter what day it is, and that service is a much more public event due to it taking place on Christmas Day. During service, the emperor and empress’s Christmas speeches are broadcasted throughout the country, and tens of millions of Mexican citizens either watch or listen in. After service, the imperial family has a carriage procession through Mexico City, and that night, a final Christmas ball is held. Following the ball, the family usually watches Christmas movies at their winter residence, as well as a late night rerun of the emperor and empress’s Christmas broadcast.

Christmas is one of the imperial family’s favorite holidays, along with Independence Day, Day of the Dead, and Chuseok.

The imperial family combines a lot of Christmas traditions from different countries during the holiday season. Of course, there are mainly Mexican, Spanish, Korean, and British traditions, but there are also German and Scottish traditions mixed in, as well.

Mexico is known for sending numerous equestrians, sailors, surfers, soccer players, and runners to the Olympics, most of which have medaled. Members of the imperial family who have competed in the Olympics include: Emperor Alphons’ second son, who competed in equestrianism and won bronze, Emperor Gustavo’s youngest son, who competed in sailing and placed fourth, Empress Victoria, who competed in equestrianism and tennis and won silver and gold, Princess Luisa, Victoria’s younger sister, who competed in swimming and won gold, Prince Alejandro, Victoria’s eldest son, who competed at both the summer and winter Olympics and won gold in figure skating and gold in equestrianism, Princess Jacqueline, who competed in figure skating and won gold, as well, Princess Isabel, Victoria’s other younger sister, who competed in snowboarding and won bronze, and Princess Catalina Anita, who competed in gymnastics and track and won gold and bronze.

Like the United Kingdom, the Mexican empire has an established social season as well. It starts on February 1st with the state opening of Parliament, and it ends on December 9th with Empress Agustina’s Debutante Ball. In between, events like flower shows, opera performances, sports tournaments, society galas, a dog show, and an imperial derby are held. A five month break also occurs in between July and December. The social season was also introduced by Empress Agustina, but it didn’t become widespread until Emperor José Manuel’s reign.

Mexico is also known for its classic original operas, productions, and various opera singers. The annual opera performance at the Gran Teatro Nacional is one of the most anticipated events during the social season, and it is one of Dowager Empress Consuelo Teresa, Emperor Fernando, Empress Catalina-Beatriz, Empress Victoria, and Victoria’s children’s favorite event during the season.

Mexico also has quite the large amount of painters and photographers. Two of the most renowned painters and photographers are Lady Magdalena de la Cerda, a member of the aristocratic la Cerda family and a famous landscape, surrealist, and portrait artist, and Guillermo Hernandez-Mendez, a photographer famous for his landscape shots and creativity. Both of them work for the imperial family, and they usually create the family’s portraits.

Mexico is also known for its incredibly strong military. It’s head is, of course, the current monarch of the empire. Emperor José Manuel had extensive military knowledge and training, which he passed on to his sons, the future Emperor Fernando included. Fernando passed that military knowledge onto his eldest daughter and heir apparent, the future Empress Victoria, who further strengthened Mexico’s military just like her father and grandfather had done.

Dowager Empress Consuelo Teresa introduced the Korean holiday of Chuseok and the celebration of doljanchi to the imperial family upon her marriage to Emperor José Manuel. Since Emperor Fernando’s doljanchi in 1937, almost every member of the imperial family has also had one. Unlike other holidays, banquets are not held for Chuseok. Instead, smaller family dinners/potlucks are held in the family’s summer palaces, and they also get the chance to speak to their extended family in Korea.

The family’s main residence—Chapultepec Castle—is lit up with colored lights for various occasions. Some of those occasions include Independence Day, the birthdays of members of the imperial family, the births of members of the imperial family, and coronations. The lighting of Chapultepec Castle was introduced by Empress Catalina-Beatriz and started after the birth of Empress Victoria in 1967, and it has been done ever since.

Other traditions include the public lighting of the Christmas tree in front of Chapultepec Castle, and the ringing of the Catedral Metropolitana bells once an imperial baby has been born and during an imperial wedding.

The title of Prince/Princess of Tijuana is a title given to the heirs to the throne of Mexico. It was created in the early 1900s by Emperor Alphons as an 18th birthday gift for his eldest son, the future Emperor Gustavo. Since then, there have been five Princes of Tijuana and two Princesses of Tijuana. The title of Duke/Duchess of Bourbon-Perez is a title given to the current monarch and their spouse, and it was created by Dowager Empress Consuelo Teresa upon her eldest son’s ascension to the imperial throne. The title of Earl/Countess of Bourbon-Perez was created by Emperor Fernando upon his eldest daughter’s marriage in 1988.

Upon Victoria's ascension to the Mexican throne, Prince Alejandro—Jacqueline’s older brother—became the new crown prince of Mexico, and he also received the titles of Prince of Tijuana (a title given to the heirs to the imperial throne) and Earl of Bourbon-Perez. Jacqueline also moved up a spot in the line of succession, going from fourth to third.

Most of the members of the imperial family have married/have been engaged to people with noble/aristocratic titles. Only five members have not done so, with those being: Emperor José Manuel, who married Yoo Hyeryun, a Korean woman hailing from a middle class family, Crown Prince Alejandro, who got engaged to Vivienne Young, a woman hailing from an old moneyed Peranakan family, Princess Isabel, who married Stephanos Alexander Onasis, a Greek commoner, Prince Maximilliano, Emperor Fernando’s younger brother, who married Bianca Rosalia Rodriguez, a Cuban commoner, and Princess Alejandra of Spain, who married Hernando Enrique Torres, an Ecuadorian commoner hailing from a wealthy oil family.

The Mexican imperial family has a total of 19 residences. They have nine residences in Mexico, and 10 residences in other countries (such as Cuba, the United Kingdom, and Spain).

[whitmoreroyals]

Education & Institutions of Whitmore

Education has long been regarded as one of the foundations of Whitmorian society. Since the kingdom's founding, successive monarchs have supported the development of schools, universities, libraries, and cultural institutions intended to promote learning, civic responsibility, and public service.

Today, education is widely accessible throughout the kingdom and remains an important part of Whitmore's national identity. The Crown, local communities, and educational institutions work together to ensure that citizens are prepared to contribute to the prosperity and future of the realm.

Philosophy of Education

Whitmore's educational system is founded upon the belief that knowledge carries both opportunity and responsibility.

Schools are expected not only to provide academic instruction but also to encourage civic engagement, personal development, and service to the community.

The values most commonly associated with Whitmorian education include:

• Curiosity and learning • Responsibility and service • Respect for others • Civic participation • Lifelong education

Primary and Secondary Education

Education is available to children throughout the kingdom through a network of public and independent schools.

Primary education focuses on literacy, mathematics, history, science, and civic studies. Secondary education expands upon these subjects while preparing students for higher education, vocational training, or professional careers.

School attendance is widely encouraged, and educational attainment is considered an important pathway to opportunity and advancement.

Higher Education

Whitmore is home to several respected institutions of higher learning.

Universities provide instruction in fields including law, medicine, education, engineering, science, agriculture, literature, and public administration.

Many universities maintain historic ties to the Crown and continue to contribute to national research, innovation, and public service.

Higher education is regarded as both an academic pursuit and a means of preparing future leaders for service within society.

The Royal University of Langdale

Among the kingdom's most prestigious institutions is the Royal University of Langdale.

Founded by royal charter in 1848, the university has educated generations of scholars, public servants, diplomats, judges, and members of the nobility. It remains one of Whitmore's leading centers of learning and research.

Attendance at the university is considered a significant distinction, and many of the kingdom's most influential figures have studied within its halls.

International Academic Partnerships

Whitmore also maintains academic partnerships with several foreign institutions. Members of the Royal Family, government officials, diplomats, and students may pursue specialized studies abroad when beneficial to their fields of service.

Among the most notable of these partnerships is the kingdom's longstanding educational relationship with the Kingdom of Simdonia. @bridgeportbritt Royal family members and scholars have periodically attended programs at Simdonia's universities, particularly in the fields of foreign trade, diplomacy, international relations, and economic development.

These exchanges help strengthen ties between the two kingdoms while providing valuable experience and expertise to future leaders of Whitmore.

Religious Education

The Jacoban Church has historically played an important role in education.

Many churches, abbeys, and religious institutions continue to operate schools and charitable educational programs throughout the kingdom.

While religious instruction remains available, modern education in Whitmore serves citizens of all faiths and backgrounds.

Military and Professional Education

Whitmore maintains several institutions dedicated to professional and leadership training.

Among the most notable is the Royal Military Academy of Whitmore, where future military officers receive instruction in leadership, strategy, public service, and national defense.

Other professional institutions prepare citizens for careers in medicine, law, teaching, engineering, government service, diplomacy, and public administration.

These institutions help ensure that Whitmore's public services remain effective and capable of meeting the needs of the kingdom.

Cultural Institutions

Beyond formal education, Whitmore maintains a variety of institutions dedicated to learning and cultural preservation.

These include:

• Libraries • Museums • Archives • Historical societies • Art galleries

Many of these institutions receive support from the Crown, charitable organizations, and local communities.

Together they help preserve the history, traditions, and cultural heritage of the kingdom.

The Royal Archives of Whitmore

Located in Langdale, the Royal Archives preserve many of the kingdom's most important historical records.

The collection includes royal documents, government records, noble genealogies, maps, correspondence, and historical manuscripts dating back to the founding of the kingdom.

The Archives serve as an important resource for scholars, historians, and government institutions throughout Whitmore.

The Crown and Education

The Crown has traditionally served as a patron of education and scholarship.

Successive monarchs have supported schools, universities, libraries, and cultural institutions through royal patronage and public initiatives.

Members of the Royal Family frequently participate in educational programs, school visits, scholarship ceremonies, and academic celebrations throughout the kingdom.

Education is widely viewed as an essential investment in Whitmore's future.

Crown Scholarships and Foundations

The Royal Family has long supported initiatives intended to expand educational opportunities for citizens throughout the kingdom.

Scholarships, charitable programs, and educational foundations help provide assistance to students pursuing academic and professional advancement.

Among the most notable modern initiatives is the New Hope Foundation, established in 1964 by Crown Princess Andrea of Whitmore and Princess Gabriela of Westburg of the Kingdom of Trenton. @trentonsimblr The foundation provides educational assistance and opportunities to women who have faced hardship, reflecting both princesses' commitment to service and empowerment through education.

The initiative also serves as a symbol of the close friendship and cooperation between Whitmore and Trenton, demonstrating how royal partnerships can contribute to meaningful social and educational progress.

Education in Modern Whitmore

Modern Whitmore continues to expand educational opportunities while preserving the values that have shaped its schools and institutions for generations.

Advances in science, technology, and research have strengthened the kingdom's educational system, while longstanding traditions of scholarship and public service remain central to its mission.

Today, education remains one of the most important pillars of Whitmorian society and continues to contribute to the kingdom's prosperity, innovation, and national development.

[lenacraft]

Can everyone just try the "Stop basing fictional royalty off the British royal family" challenge 2021? There are so many talented people who are creative enough to come up with their own fictional cultures, and others who take inspiration from black and brown monarchies, can we just NOT constantly take after the most infamous family of colonizers?

Sure.

I will say I don’t actually know of any stories that based their monarchies on the British one.

It’s way easier to make one up.

[lenacraft]

(Royals in fiction anon) A follow up: You think royals are commonly portrayed in fantasy fiction (medieval fantasy AND urban fantasy) because (absolute) monarchy is largely extinct in the present day and is probably seen as "fantastical" by a modern person? Do you think it's similar to how magic/superpowers are often plot relevant in fiction due to how they used to be believed in in the past, but are now regarded as fictional in the present day?

Yes. But I don’t think superpowers and absolute monarchies go so well together. What’s weird is that most fantasy stories have magical people work for monarchies but never explain why.

[lenacraft]

You think fantasy/fictional royals can be better than real life royals sometimes? And by real life royals, I mean the British royals who seem to pop into everyone's heads when "royalty" is mentioned.

Yes. Fantasy stories seem to love monarchies. Maybe because you can overthrow a monarchy.