Proclamation of Stewardship

A proclamation issued by Giles Baxter, declaring himself Steward of Caelester until such a time as a living heir to the Grand Duchy can be found. It was also the first public announcement of the Grand Duchess's death, along with that of her family and many of the political elites in the city.

Historical Details

Public Reaction

The proclamation was met with immediate outrage. Some felt it crass to move so fast to establish an unprecedented new position, others saw it as a blatant grab for power. Most simply felt it improper for an outsider to be making this sort of decision unilaterally. Surviving political elites, including several Guildmasters, tried to intercede privately, warning the general public's discontent would soon develop into a riot if the new Steward refused to back down. These warnings were ignored or rebuffed. Before long, more and more people came to see the proclamation as a power grab by a foreign lord, which soon led to a series of riots across the city now known as the Ascension Riots.

Read the Document

Proclamation of Stewardship

By the Steward, A Proclamation:
Whereas Grand Duchess Luisa Avraine has been found among the fallen in the recent Disaster, and furthermore whereas all known heirs to her title have perished alongside her, it is hereby proclaimed that Lord Giles Baxter will assume leadership of the city of Caelester, and all of its demesnes, as caretaker and Steward, until such a time as the whereabouts of the rightful heir can be found and they can be brought safely to Caelester such that they can assume the throne.
I, Steward Giles Baxter, pledge myself to serve the people of Caelester during this troubled time, and to see the city restored to its former glory. Caelester is a strong and proud city, and I am sure that, if we work together, we can see it built back better than it ever was before.
--Giles Baxter, Steward of Caelester

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