Kalistani Major History

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Crown Prince David assumes title to Grand Duchy of Ananto
Largely viewed as first step in transition to Monarchy
Kaliburg, Ananto
October 7, 5203


Crown Prince and now Grand Duke David Ananto, with wife Duchess Consort Katherine, Countess of Dah at Annual Audience in Eveari

Nearly six years after becoming Crown Prince of Ananto and Kalistan, David, Count of Davon was named Grand Duke of Ananto last week at the Annual Audience in Eveari, which has become a tradition in recent decades. At this meeting of the Counts, Dukes and Mayors across Kalistan, started by the late Emperor Fredrick I of Ananto and Kalistan, the Nobility are asked to bring strategic petitions to the Empress, to help her develop policy. The Monarch also acknowledges all hereditary changes, names all new members of the Order of Grey Smoke in closed session, and meets citizens of Kalistan, who take the opportunity to interact with the Empire's VIPs.

As David assumes a larger profile that comes with the assumption of new titles, it is widely believe that the Empress is preparing for her son to finally take over parts of direct government in the Empire. The Grand Duke has long sat in royal confidence with both the Empress, and her husband before her, and became an elected Deputy from Dulnerstaad in 5194, where he sits as Count. Both he and his wife, the Countess Katherine of Dah are expected to become co-Sovereigns when 80 year old Elizabeth I leaves the throne and David's appointment suggests that the Empress is considering leaving of her own power, rather than dying in Office.

Grand Duke David and his wife are expecting their first child in May, news which was overshadowed by the Count's appointment to Grand Duke. David now assumes the House Name Ananto and is now titled Grand Duke David Ananto, Count of Davon, Crown Prince of the Empire of Ananto and Kalistan while Elizabeth adds Duchess Consort to her title Countess of Dah. The Empress surrenders the title "Grand Duchess of Ananto" but retains the title Countess of Luxon until death, after which it will be for the Emperor to dispose of: If she retires from office, her title will be simply Princess Elizabeth of Ananto and Kalistan. David's brother Prince Victor is expected to receive the County of Luxon when Elizabeth dies, and his sister the Princess Margaret is likely to remain untitled for the time being but will no doubt serve in an advisory capacity in the new Monarchy.

At the moment, Elizabeth has not made any announcement with regard to her plans, and it is likely that any decisions she makes will come after the upcoming Assembly elections in February.