The Highest Honours
The Imperial Medal of Honour
The Highest Honor that any citizen can receive, the Imperial Medal of Honour recognizes indispensible contributions to the Aelyrian Empire, to the point that the Empire itself is much a product of what the recipient has done. Awarded only by the Emperor, few in history have received this magnanamous recognition. The medallion is worn preferrably around the neck and unobstructed. Encircling the image of the presenting sovereign are the words "For God and the Empire", symbolizing a resolve to unify both faith and courage in pursuit of determination and accomplishment.
The Star of Kaldira
Named after one of the most prominent ancient provinces of the Aelyrian Empire, the Star of Kaldira is awarded to citizens who have defended the Empire with their lives repeatedly, or have saved the life of the Emperor. It is worn as the prominent medal over the left breast, higher than all other military and civic honours. It is also awarded for uncovering treason and maintaining the integrity of the Aelyrian Empire, thus explaining the encircling words "Honour and Integrity".
The Star of Michelle
For citizens who have spent a vast portion of their lives making the Aelyrian Empire a better, safer place for others, the Star of Michelle is a glorious honour. Named after the Empress who founded the Golden Age of Aelyrian Philosophy, Art, and Good Works, this medal represents accomplishments of selflessness and benevolence beyond simple kindness. The image of Empress Michelle du Starkville appears prominently in the center and the words "One Country, One People, One Voice", immortalized by her husband, surround her likeness.
The Cross of the Kestrel
In rememberance of the great Colonel, Sir Kestrel, the Cross of the Kestrel is awarded to those who devise ingenious plans, ideas, or concepts which later lead to a great victory or triumph of the Aelyrian Empire over a misfortune which has plagued the nation - including war, famine, pestilence, or a curse. Twin blades flank the central image of the legendary knight, and the words "Law, Order, Justice, and Empire" are figured prominently on the four points of the cross.
Civic Virtue
The Golden Heart
Awarded to citizens displaying selfless service to the local community, the Golden Heart embodies the compassionate generosity inherent in all Aelyrian people. Covered in this award include public service and good works.
The Coin of Melody
Like this medal's namesake, the recipient is recognized for leadership in economic and financial circles, as well as philanthropic gestures. The Coin of Melody is awarded at the recommendation of the Guild of Merchants, also founded by the great Queen Melody de Lylles.
The Tri Medal
Citizens who fight for Law, Order, and Justice receive the Tri Medal, an honour granted only by the Imperium; this also includes acts of righting wrongs and bringing justice or retribution to those who have suffered. It may also be awarded to members of government for selfless acts.
The Medal of Glory
Awarded to members of the government who have remained committed to good, constructive government in the pursuit of public service, the Medal of Glory has also been awarded to citizens who have improved a function of Aelyria's administration.
The Shield of Charisma
The goal of most diplomatic and consular representatives, the Shield of Charisma is awarded to citizens and ambassadors who have represented the Aelyrian Empire abroad with repetitive distinction, as well as having obtained excellence through negotiation, mediation, and the art of compromise. The Shield is also awarded to civilians with excellence in oratory and rhetoric.
Medals of Combat and Prowess
The Cross of Courage
This medal is earned when a soldier faces staggering odds in combat, but chooses to engage rather than retreat. It is awarded usually in situations where defense is critical. The Cross of Courage may be earned by soldiers both successful and defeated in combat.
The Star of Constantine
Named after the brilliant military monarch, the Star of Constantine is awarded to officers in the Military who have developed innovative tactical routines or strategic procedures and have implemented them in live combat.
The Medal of Duty
Awarded to officers displaying dedication and commitment to the Military, the Medal of Duty is a common recognition but is often a pre-requisite to be considered for higher-level posts. The Medal of Duty is also awarded to providing support for a superior officer outside of regular orders.
The Medal of Virtue
The highest military honor in the Empire, the Medal of Virtue has been excluded from the Highest Honours because it only encompasses military service. Soldiers and officers that have won decisive victories against the enemy are entitled to receive this great honor. The Medal of Virtue is also given to soldiers that succeed against incredible odds, and hence, it is considered the victorious counterpart of the Cross of Courage.
The Star of Anna
Named after High Queen Anna the Strict, the Star of Anna is awarded to officers who are wounded in combat while defending an office of the Aelyrian government, whether on the local or Imperial level. It is also awarded to soldiers defending a member of the Aelyrian government.
The Star of Valor
For extreme bravery in combat, the Star of Valour is awarded to soldiers who have engaged the enemy in foreign soil for the purpose of conquest and righteous acquisition of strategic territory during the ongoing conflict; it is awarded also in conditions of staggering odds during an invasion into the enemy's territory.
The Medal of Justice
The Medal of Justice is awarded to soldiers and officers who have chosen to defend the weak from the strong, either in military service or during an off-duty session, but always in collaboration with orders. The Medal is given only in exemplary circumstances of chivalrous pursuit to right wrongs committed through glorious combat.
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