Constantine IX Vasa
Royo y Imperad, Constantine IX | |
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 Official state portrait of Constantine IX, 2023. | |
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Titles: |
Säintos Rozirre eui Lauterra, Royo eui do Sarovians, Imperad eui lan Comune Saroviana, Bennenroyo eui tel Etaso, Royo eui Reuss, eui Nassau, eui Philippia, eui Metternau, eui Carolusburg y do Oxerians, Paziètella eui do Vasas, Nassaus, Makos y Zors, Protegésse eun Fé. |
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Reign: |
275 to 311 AS |
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Born: |
266 AS |
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Emperor Constantine IX (birth: Charles Alexander Zor-Mako-Vasa-Nassau, High Sarovian: Carolus Alessaros eui Zor-Mako-Vasa-Nassau) was the longest reigning King and Emperor of New Sarovia. Born in Sarholm in 266 AS to his father William Frederick Vasa (no correlation to the monarch, William of Sarovia) and the Duchess Mary of the State, Constantine was also the great grandson of Prime Minister Sir Alexander Vasa, and the great-great-great grandson of Emperor Constantine IV Zor-Mako who reigned from 223 AS to 226. After joining the army of the Kingdom of Sacro within the Confederation and rising the ranks due to Lord Lochland's influence, Constantine would fight in the Imperian campaigns and more. Constantine would marry Katherine Vasa during the Imperian campaigns, a descendant of the other branch of the House of Vasa by way of Edward I Vasa. They have two children: John and Sevirax Vasa.
When his great-grandfather Lord Lochland abdicated his title, he would take the title of Viscount Lochland and enter the Sarovian Assembly of Peers. In 275 AS, he was elected by the Assembly of Peers to become the next monarch of New Sarovia when his younger brother, Edward II Vasa-Nassau, rejected the throne of a unified Sarovia. He was also selected due to his Vasa lineage and friendship with Constantine VII, as well as being the oldest male Vasa in the House at the time. Constantine reigns as a constitutional monarch and has gone through many major political changes such as the Jacobite Rebellion, the colonisation of three new continents, the conquest of Aurea and more. As Emperor, Constantine was served by more Prime Ministers than any other Sarovian monarch combined.
Constantine IX, also known as Grand King Constantine III of the State and King Constantine I of Philippia, Metternau, Carolusburg and the Oxerians, was known as the most popular Sarovian monarch in history, and the longest reigning. Constantine IX has been attributed many epithets over his reign, such as "Constantine the Great" (not to be confused with Constantine VI & I Vasa, "Constantine the Holy" and "Constantine the Blessed", but the main epithet that has been attributed to him has been "Constantine the Restorer".
Biography[edit | edit source]
Early Life[edit | edit source]
Born as Charles Alexander of Zor-Mako-Vasa-Nassau, he was born as a direct descendent of the famous Prime Minister Sir Alexander, the 1st Viscount Lochland, and of Constantine IV Mako, who he never actually met. Charles Alexander did not expect to ever become the monarch of New Sarovia due to being a member of an external branch of the family, and joining New Sarovia as a friend of the Prime Minister. His younger brother, Edward, would be born soon after.
Charles decided against joining the Imperial Army on the English side and instead commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Empire of Sacro, a Portuguese Vasa realm, to fight against Imperia in the Imperian Campaigns. This decision was approved and endorsed by Lord Lochland as a way to unite the two languages and their cultures. Charles Alexander fought in numerous battles in the Imperian Campaigns, such as Poltava, Sorrel and the Homeland Reconquest in May of the year. He was injured in two separate battles, as well as leading a successful attack in Sorrel which resulted in a Sarovian victory. During the Campaigns, he was granted an honorary colonelcy in the Sovereign’s Battalion in the predecessor of the Royal Sarholm Regiment due to his connections, and was greatly involved with it, though never fought alongside it in an official capacity. As Honourary Colonel, he attended a few parades and oversaw increased proficency of the unit in battle.
He witnessed the crisis of Constantine VII, the Abdication Crisis by the pretender Constantine VIII, the collapse of federal Sarovia and the emergence of the Reuss and Sacro commonwealths. Charles and his family were approached when the New Sarovian Empire was in crisis to become the Kings of Reuss, the English half of a new nation known as the Confederation of the Nafets. Charles was the oldest but refused to reign only half of New Sarovia, but encouraged his brother to take it, which he did without a regency. His younger brother, now Edward II, accepted the throne from the Assembly of Peers. As King Edward II Vasa-Nassau began reigning in Reuss, he joined as an aide-de-camp to his war council, ranked as Colonel Charles Alexander, Aide-de-Camp. Charles' service to his younger brother was not without its issues. While his dedication to the stability and prosperity of his homeland triumphed over concern of a united New Sarovian Empire, he also realized the geopolitical complexities surrounding the notion of a unified New Sarovia, ultimately coming to terms with the infeasibility of such a vision during his time. Charles' early service allowed him to be promoted to Lord-Speaker of the Assembly of the Peers briefly, before he resigned and took the post of Counsellor of State to his brother. He was sworn into the Privy Council upon the appointment of Counsellor.
Sovereign[edit | edit source]
Sarovian nationalists would bring the Nafets Confederation into turmoil quickly after the collapse of the Imperian Empire, the biggest rival which mandated the separation of Nassau and Reuss. Protests and riots were commonplace and statesmen and peers began to meet to determine a solution. As King of Reuss, Edward II was constitutionally forbidden from supporting a unified New Sarovia, and quickly began to receive hate from many of his subjects. It was determined that an abdication of the throne would be needed if New Sarovia was to exist.
Charles was, despite his fervent support for a New Sarovian Empire, intensely against the abdication of his younger brother, deeming it an infringement of his rights as a Vasa. The Reuss government acknowledged that a Sarovian Emperor would have to reign over both Reuss and Nassau before a unified New Sarovia could exist, but Edward II's popularity was too badly tarnished and the course was irreversible. Upon the abdication of King Edward II, a succession crisis began. Two of Edward II's suspected heirs, his cousins Philip and Zacline, were considered for the throne. The latter was deeply unpopular with the Nassauvian population and stability was threatened if he chose him, and the former was a staunch supporter of the New Sarovian Empire and not the Commonwealths. It was an obvious choice. Edward II abdicated and the ascension of King Philip of Reuss occurred with much fanfare, but refused to be coronated in order to not take the oath to mandate Reuss would never be subject to New Sarovia. King Jacob II and King Philip would then have to navigate a hostile political landscape to bring back the New Sarovian Empire. At first, Charles was asked to take the throne but staunchly refused due to the treatment his younger brother had given him. It took two weeks for Charles to accept, and days later Charles Alexander was elected due to his noble bloodline to lead New Sarovia by the Assembly of Peers in an almost unanimous vote. From there, he took on the regnal name of Constantine IX or Consteynnos IX, honouring his direct ancestors.
The coronation was the biggest event in the Sarovian realm for months. No expense was spared, which essentially left the treasury empty. The event was off to a poor start rather quickly however because Constantine IX's coronation portrait was often ridiculed and mocked by the people as being subpar when most of the money was allocated towards the event. This humiliation was remedied when, a few months later, the Emperor would commission better portait.
Constantine IX immediately began issuing decrees opening up democratic reforms, and began elections for the Imperial Parliament's House of Commons. The Parliament initially had very limited scope, such as only focusing on cultural and domestic elements of the empire, but over the many years of his reign, he would further open up to democracy and shift most executive powers to the Prime Minister and his Cabinet, leading the globe as the most successful constitutional monarch. The Prime Minister and the Cabinet went from a domestic figure to an international heavyweight very quickly under his reign.
From there, he began to restore the Imperial Army by formatting it into a regimental system and reestablishing I and II Corps. Under Constantine's leadership, the Empire rose to become the strongest land force in Graal and, on the 12th of December, the Grand Restoration Campaign began, leading to Sarovian reconquest over all its core territories. The War of the Fourth Coalition began and, for months, the Sarovians successfully fended off their rivals and continue to hold the land. Constantine IX married a descendant of Edward I, Katherine Vasa, early in his reign when she succeeded King Philip as Queen of Reuss. Through the act of marriage, the Kingdom of Reuss was officially abolished and brought into Sarovia federally. This proved popular with the Anglophone Sarovians, who longed for a return to the glory of old.
Exploration and regency[edit | edit source]
Constantine IX oversaw the colonization of Philippia abroad in Roblox, as well as the expansion in GraalOnline Ol'West through the Three Colonies. Sarovian skirmishes with Aurean troops in the colonies led to mixed results, but Sarovian control over the southern islands were never truly threatened. Under his command, the Dominion of Philippia was grown into a successful democracy with over 100 members, and the Dominion of Metternau was added to his domain consisting of over forty. In the summer of 280 AS, due to an illness Constantine was bedridden and the Empire was overseen by the Prince Regent, John, his son and heir. Sarovian naval officials explored northwest for more lands, and found the continents of Boreas in 283 AS, and established the first colonies in Minecraft such as Constantia, Regency Bay, and Silvestre Landing. During the Regency, State troops would be mustered to aid Constantine IX and the Prince Regent when Vistian pretender rebels laid claim to the State crown once more. Sarovians, together with State troops, would skirmish and defeat them thrice.
Constantine would oversee the Metternau Bush War later on, when the Dominion of Metternau rebelled against the Sarovian crown. He, Admiral Ridgeway and and Prime Minister Sir al-Assad brought victory after victory at Bezi, Glane's Landing and Torchill Heights before finally bringing the Dominion back into the fold, and it was given to Admiral Ridgeway to be overseen. Constantine oversaw the construction of Rachaelsburg and Bellwood province, as well as the reconstruction of Gillsbury in Metternau, before turning his attention to helping design Constantia in Boreas, including the Legislative Assembly building and St. Clemens church, which he laid the founding stones to both.
Constantine would likewise expand the City of Sarholm three times its original size through the extensive use of the Vasa treasury and personally funded many barracks, arenas, and homes. Stenhammer, Borhaus and Leda Palace were all constructed under his personal supervision and design, and have become some of the most well known buildings of the city.
Jacobite Rebellion[edit | edit source]
During the Regency, the Kingdom of Nassau was annexed into New Sarovia, establishing firm federal authority. Returning later that summer, the Emperor oversaw the Jacobite Rebellion of 284 AS and the Jacobite Civil War, which led to the dissolution of the constituent Kingdoms. The Jacobite Rebellion was a hard fought campaign, with untold sufferings happening on both sides. Constantine IX firmly believed a victory could be won through diplomacy. Constantine maneuevered during the rebellion to take control of the Oxerian Empire once again and, during the rebellion, Crown Princess Lelia would assume control of the Oxerian Empire through the disappearance of the Empress. In exchange for Jacobite transgressions in Oxerian politics and Sarovian pressure, she would sign abdicate in favour of Constantine. Despite the diplomatic victory, the other diplomatic approaches unfortunately failed again and again. Constantine IX would then take to the sword, and through a strategy of blockades and battlefield success brought a decisive victory over the Jacobite rebels at the Battle of Kiev. The Sarovian naval blockade of the Jacobites starved them of personnel and activity and in 291 AS, the Jacobites finally surrendered and the concepts of Reuss and Nassau were no more. Constantine IX, usually known for mercy and forgiveness, uncharacteristically exiled almost every single member of the rebellion.
Aurea and the Second Saro-Aurean War[edit | edit source]
During the Jacobite Rebellion, the ancient enemy of the Aurean Empire funded the Sarovian rebel groups, and even aided them in fighting against Sarovian soldiers. During the rebellion, the Jacobite pretender rebels would convert the Aureans to Stefanism and, after the rebels were put to the sword, peace talks were had by Sarovian diplomats and Aurean officials under the orders of Constantine IX. The Aurean Empire was known as the "Sick Man of Graal" by this point, and Sarovian officials were sent to Aurea to attempt to prop it up, which did so between 292 and 293 AS. Sarovians on the order of the Emperor intervened and saved the Aurean military from disaster twice at Modena and Poltava, but it was not enough to save the country and the Aurean Empire's government collapsed in the process.
When the government was reformed, the hostile and belligerent Kevlar V Vaughn decided to host the Vistian rebels and himself lay claim to the State. A flurry of talks between Sarovian ambassadors and the Aurean court to diffuse the situation led to naught and reluctantly, Constantine IX was forced to declare war on Aurea in 295 AS. Sarovian naval vessels won a staggering and decisive victory under his command in Ostos, which shattered the Aurean fleet and army, and Sarovian soldiers in Estos won two clear victories, forcing Prince Arnold Vaughn on direct orders from the Aurean Emperor to surrender all forces. The Treaty of Leda was signed, admitting Aurean guilt for the war and humiliating them in the process. A Sarovian monarch was never loved more, as the newspapers of the time said that he restored Sarovian pride. Some even claimed that Constantine IX was the reincarnation of Carolus XII, as he finally "unsolved the just war in which the late Charles could never do." Constantine IX quickly declared that the Sarovian colonies in Ostos would unify under a self autonomous Dominion known as Carolusburg.
Aurean Emperor and Holy Graalian Emperor[edit | edit source]
The treaty was not upheld for long, however, when Kevlar V attempted a second attack on Sarovian naval forces which was quickly repelled. In response, two camps of Aureans formed. The first demanded Kevlar V's abdication for his repeated failures of his homeland and the second saw the newly found Dominion of Carolusburg as the cultural, martial and spiritual successor to Aurea. Governor-General Richard Vaughn and Constantine IX demanded that Kevlar V abdicate in favour of his nephew. The demand went unanswered until well past the response date, and Kevlar V's refuse to abdicate led to many Aurean noblemen swearing the Oath of Allegiance to Constantine IX, and swore him in as the Emperor of Aurea and King of Carolusburg in 296 AS. In response, Pope Clement of the Stefanic Church, who's predecessor granted Emperor Cassio of Aurea the title of "Holy Western Emperor", acknowleged the Aurean crown as well as the Holy Western crown to belong to Constantine IX. In face of surmounting pressure and papal recognition, Kevlar V abdicated. His nephew continues skirmishing with Sarovian forces, to little success.
Constantine IX then turned to Estos to deal with an uprising of Aurean funded rebel groups, of which amongst them were the successors to Hanor, the possessor of the "Holy Eastern Emperor." In a swift martial campaign, Constantine IX in his old age decisively defeated the rebel groups and Pope Clement acknowleged the exchange of the "Holy Eastern Emperor" title to Constantine IX. At the turn of the Stefanic century in 300 AS, the Pope crowned Constantine IX as the first Holy Graalian Emperor, a successor title to surpass that of Constantine VI's title of Caesar.
Death and Funeral[edit | edit source]
Constantine, the Emperor whose reign symbolized an era of transformative reforms, passed away on November 28th, 311 AS at Stenhammer Palace. He had gone to Stenhammer on the 26th of November intending to take a break, but his deteriorating health, evident from early November, prompted Chief Herald Loggail to urgently summon members of the House of Vasa and the Prime Minister to the palace on the 28th of November around 6PM EST.
By the time the dignitaries arrived on the 28th around 6:30PM EST, Constantine had already succumbed to his condition at 6:44 PM EST, prior to their presence. According to sources, the first attendees were his wife, his son John, Prince of Kiev and the future Carolus XIII Vasa. The House of Vasa officially declared his passing at 7:11 PM EST on the same day by a press release in all Realms through Sarovia Pathe. Constantine IX's demise marked the end of an era in the empire's history, initiating a period of mourning and transition. His death left a significant void in the leadership and signaled a pivotal moment for the empire's future course. The funeral continues to be planned.
Legacy[edit | edit source]
Personal life and politics[edit | edit source]
Constantine IX was renowned for his distinct blend of personal convictions and political neutrality, a characteristic that significantly shaped his rule. A proponent of democratic traditionalism, he navigated the New Sarovian Empire's political landscape with a balanced approach that aimed to uphold democratic values while respecting established traditions. He personally relinquished extensive powers of the monarchy to the elected Sarovian federal government and the Prime Minister, who would exercise said authority in his name. Constantine hardly intervened in politics and had a policy known as "support My Government", ultimately determining that no matter who was Prime Minister, he would aid in their continued success in politics and in government until they could no longer serve, resigned, or were defeated in office. This essentially made Constantine a supporter of every Government ever. Constantine had the legal right to vote in elections but always waived this in favour of remaining politically neutral. His reign was marked by a deliberate neutrality in political affairs. He astutely maintained an impartial stance, seeking consensus among conflicting factions and prioritizing the empire's stability above personal or partisan agendas. His governance style reflected a commitment to preserving democratic principles, often leaning toward reforms that safeguarded the rights of the populace, and would support resolutions and decisions made against him by his governments, such as lowering his own salary or removing rights or privileges. In several instances, he advocated for the establishment of parliamentary committees, allowing backbencher Members of Parliament a voice in administrative decisions. These committees not only facilitated better governance but also fostered a sense of civic participation, aligning with Constantine's belief in the importance of a participatory democracy.
Constantine IX's outward stance as a proponent of democratic traditionalism often obscured a closely guarded aspect of his persona. Similar to his ancestor Lord Lochland, Constantine was a staunch conservative behind the scenes and a devout Stefanist, believing in the divine right of kings a firm commitment to authoritarian governance. Behind closed doors, Constantine was an ardent adherent of conservative Stefanic doctrines, fervently practicing his faith and actively promoting the influence of the Stefanic Church within the empire. His personal convictions surprisingly were not conflicting with his public image as a neutral ruler, and he openly wielded his authority to advance conservative Stefanic values within the New Sarovian society and fulfilled his duties as the Holy Graalian Emperor.
Authoritarian tendencies manifested in his governance strategies, particularly in moments of crisis or dissent. Though publicly advocating for democratic ideals, Constantine wasn't hesitant to employ authoritarian measures to maintain order and reinforce imperial authority. Instances of stringent enforcement of laws, suppression of dissenting voices, and consolidation of power in the hands of the monarchy characterized his response to challenges to his rule, especially in the Jacobite Rebellion. When times were good, Sarovians enjoyed the most freedoms of any Graalian, but in times of crisis Constantine masterfully utilised the far reaches of Sarovian law to implement effective conclusions.
High Sarovian[edit | edit source]
Constantine IX held an unwavering commitment to the evolution and prominence of the High Sarovian language, a fusion of English and Portuguese that he championed as a means of cultural unity and diplomatic efficacy. Understanding the pivotal role language plays in fostering communication and unity among diverse populations, Constantine initiated ambitious language reforms within the empire. His vision was to create a lingua franca that amalgamated the linguistic nuances of English and Portuguese, aiming for a language that not only facilitated internal cohesion but also elevated the empire's international presence.
To elevate the significance of the High Sarovian language, Constantine IX launched educational programs and encouraged widespread adoption of the language in governmental affairs, academia, and commerce. He established language dictionaries, funded linguistic research, and promoted the production of literature, fostering a cultural renaissance that celebrated linguistic diversity while embracing a unified mode of communication, resulting in extensive use of the language in bureaucracy and in culture such as poems and songs. Constantine IX's dedicated efforts to institutionalize High Sarovian contributed significantly to its widespread adoption as a language of the government, reinforcing its status as a language of diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange throughout the Empire and beyond.
Many scholars have cited the Jacobite Rebellion as a crucial instance that spurred Constantine on to develop the language. Constantine profound belief in the unifying power of language reshaped the socio-cultural fabric of the empire, establishing High Sarovian as a cornerstone of identity and a bridge between diverse linguistic communities. His legacy endures through the enduring legacy of High Sarovian as a testament to his visionary leadership and enduring commitment to linguistic inclusivity and cultural amalgamation.
Constantine "the Restorer"[edit | edit source]
Constantine is hailed by many as Constantine the Restorer, and embodies a pivotal figure in the annals of Sarovian history. While some citizens allude to him as Constantine the Great, a title shared with his predecessor, Constantine VI & I Vasa, many argue that the distinct contributions of Constantine IX warrant a unique epithet. A faction of scholars and citizens ardently supports the moniker "Restorer," arguing that it encapsulates the monumental breadth of his accomplishments, surpassing mere greatness. His reign marked an epoch of rejuvenation, where he not only reestablished the foundations of the New Sarovian Empire but rectified numerous missteps of his predecessors.
The epithet "Restorer" draws from Constantine's pivotal role in reclaiming Sarovian pride and sovereignty, steering the empire away from the wreckage of the Imperian Wars and reclaiming territorial losses incurred during Arcadian conflicts and coalition wars, things many successors were wholly unable to achieve. Notably, his diplomatic acumen and strategic prowess saw the reinstatement of Sarovian executive and federal powers, restoring the balance of authority crucial for the empire's stability and governance, moving away from the semi-feudal system established in the Confederation of the Nafets. This was not without its faults, however, as the Jacobite Rebellion threatened to rip apart the fabric of the Empire, which Constantine ultimately aided in restoring.
Constantine's legacy as the Restorer extends beyond territorial boundaries. His initiatives in reclaiming and fortifying the Sarovian colonial empire, notably in the regions of Orios, Ostos, and Boreas, revitalized the empire's global influence. The Dominion of Carolusburg was a direct restorative effort against the Aurean House of Vaughn, who were the Empire's biggest rivals for many years. An anecdote is told upon visiting the tomb of former Aurean Emperor Kevlar V immediately after the death of the Aurean pretender Angel Vaughn that Constantine's eldest son, the Prince of Kiev, said "Awake, Kevlar. My father has finally restored peace in these lands. My presence here consecrates the victory of the Vasas over the Vaughns."
Concurrently, he ushered in reforms that revitalized Sarovian democracy, reinstating the voice of the people within the empire's governance structures. Constantine restoring and greatly expanding the democratic processes established by previous monarchs is seen as one of his greatest achievements.
Some critics argue that "Restorer" might not sufficiently capture the grandeur of his achievements. Proponents emphasize that this title encapsulates the essence of his reign, one marked by tireless efforts to rectify past errors and revive the empire's glory on multiple fronts. Constantine IX's legacy as the Restorer remains a testament to his transformative leadership and enduring commitment to rebuilding and revitalizing the New Sarovian Empire.
Payk Sarovianò[edit | edit source]
The "Payk Sarovianò," in English as the Sarovian Peace, was a significant epoch in the annals of the New Sarovian Empire, observed as a period of universal hegemony and diplomatic prowess. It is referred to in the High Sarovian language, the lingua franca of the nation, to differentiate it from and echo the ideals and principles established by the historic Pax Sarovica under the reign of Constantine VI in the 230s and 240s AS.
Following the decisive quelling of the Jacobite Rebellion, Constantine navigated the Sarovian government away from the brink of war with the Aurean Empire, despite the historical rivalry between the two nations. Arguing for a peaceful coexistence, Constantine advocated that New Sarovia could thrive as equals with Aurea without the need for hegemonic dominance. Aurea was struggling diplomatically and Constantine secretly worked with agents within the House of Vaughn to continue to prop it up, calling it the "Sick Man of Graal." However, Aurea would gain strength and eventually support for Statee rebels, which directly threatened Constantine's position as the Grand King of the State, posed a continuous provocation.
Despite Constantine's counsel for peace, the Sarovian Government opted to declare war on Aurea, and did so. Constantine was resigned to another Stefanic decade of war, but the ensuing conflict culminated in a resounding and humiliating defeat for Aurea on both domestic and foreign fronts, paving the way for Sarovia's assertion of universal dominance, known as the Payk Sarovianò.
The repercussions of the peace were far-reaching, compelling former allies of Aurea to pledge an informal allegiance to Constantine as the Holy Graalian Emperor. This unprecedented allegiance solidified Constantine and Sarovia's status as the undeniable hegemon of Graal, imposing peace among erstwhile rivals. For a span of eight Stefanic years, Sarovia basked in a state of comprehensive tranquility, wielding unparalleled authority wherein its desires translated into absolute command. The Payk Sarovianò heralded an era of Sarovian hegemony where the empire reigned supreme in diplomatic, economic, and political domains. The peace established Sarovia as an influential force shaping global affairs, compelling nations far and wide to seek amicable terms. Its hegemonic authority ensured compliance and acquiescence from rivals, securing an era where Sarovia's aspirations were swiftly realized, becoming a universal precedent.
The legacy of the Payk Sarovianò endures as a testament to Sarovia's strategic prowess and diplomatic finesse, solidifying its status as an indisputable powerhouse in the global arena. This epoch redefined the geopolitical landscape, imprinting Sarovian dominance in the collective memory of nations, showcasing an unprecedented era of undisputed supremacy and far-reaching influence. It is commonly marked that the period ended when the former Sarovian ally of Oldenburg refused to follow orders from Sarholm, and many scholars cited an unwillingness from Sarholm politicians to adapt to a new reality on the ground.
Titles, styles, honours and arms[edit | edit source]
Titles and styles[edit | edit source]
Upon ascension to the throne, many Peers believed he would be "Carolus XIII", as his first name was Charles. Instead, he took the name of his most recent ancestor monarch.
Constantine IX has gone by many different titles and styles depending on the realms in which he was part of. In each of his realms, colonies and dominions, Constantine had a distinct title that follows a similar formula that includes the realm's title, such as King of Carolusburg, Philippia, etc. In his Sarovian style, all titles Constantine possessed within member states of the Sarovian Commonwealth were featured. Constantine had many more titles than that throughout his life, which were often "reduced" out of his official title and style into auxiliary positions to keep it much simpler. The Imperial Styles Act mandated that his title be:
Coat of arms[edit | edit source]
As the Viscount Lochland, Constantine IX's arms were different from those of the New Sarovian Empire. Upon his selection to reign in New Sarovia by the Assembly of Peers, he decreed the change of the arms of the New Sarovian Empire to reflect both Anglophone and Lusophone Sarovians. Through the virtue of being the King of the Sarovians and the Emperor of the New Sarovian Empire, Constantine IX was the source of all heraldry and symbols through during his reign and bears the arms of New Sarovia. However, depending on the Sarovian Dominion or other united country he finds himself, his arms will reflect the country in which he represents at any given time. In matters of cross-country importance, Constantine IX's uses his personal arms which are those of the New Sarovian Empire and are defaced by the arms of Mako-Zor.
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| Arms of Constantine IX as the Viscount Lochland. | Arms of Constantine IX as sovereign. | Arms of Constantine IX as sovereign of the Dominion of Philippia. | Arms of Constantine IX as sovereign of the Dominion of Metternau. | Arms of Constantine IX as sovereign of the Dominion of Carolusburg. | Arms of Constantine IX as sovereign of the Grand Kingdom of the State. | Arms of Constantine IX as sovereign, defaced with the arms of Mako-Zor. |
Banners, flags and standards[edit | edit source]
Constantine IX used the various royal and imperial standards that are used to represent his various titles, both within and outside of the countries on foreign visits. The Imperial Standard of New Sarovia takes precedent over all others, and is to only be used when the Emperor is attending an event personally. This convention is followed for all other banners and standards as well based on his capacity: for example, Constantine attending a meeting as the King of Carolusburg would fly the Carodian Royal Standard rather than the Imperial Standard.
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| Royal Standard of Constantine I of Carolusburg. | Royal Standard of Constantine I of Metternau. | Royal Standard of Constantine I of Philippia. | Banner of Constantine IX of Emperor of the Sarovian Commonwealth. | Imperial Standard of Constantine IX of King of the Sarovians. |
Cyphers and monograms[edit | edit source]
Constantine IX had a variety of monograms and cyphers, including some merged with his wife the Empress-Consort. On his 12th Stefanic year anniversary, however, he issued a decree to change said monogram, which stayed with him until his death. There are examples of Constantine's monogram with both the Imperial Crown and the St. Charles Crown. The monogram and cyphers were used in a variety of ways, including on the facades of buildings, buttons of soldier's uniforms, document headers, and more. The old cyphers from his early reign did not change despite the decree depending on jurisdiction, leading to some variety. The Dominions of Metternau and Philippia maintained the old monograms whereas the Remerra Saroviano, New Sarovia proper and the Dominion of Carolusburg reflected the new monogram of the Emperor.
Honours and decorations[edit | edit source]
Throughout his life, Constantine IX has received many different honours and decorations, as well as crowns of many Realms.
- Crowns
- Honours
Sovereign of the Order of the Vasas- Sovereign of the Order of the New Sarovian Empire
Sovereign of the Order of the Black Sun- Sovereign of the Order of the Griffon
Sovereign of the Order of the Bull- Star of Carolus
Knight Commander of the Order of the Golden Circle
- Decorations
- Constantine Cross
- Imperial Star of Service
- Cross of Valour
- Volunteer's Cross
- Sovereign's Cross
- Cross of Military Valour
- Medal of Merit
- Medal of Bravery
- Exemplary Service Medal
