Humble Fealty, Rite

The Rite of Humble Fealty

Overview

The Rite of Humble Fealty is a long-standing tradition in the Kingdom of Gorundia, a symbolic act required of all newly appointed barons before receiving their official title, lands, and privileges. The ritual serves as a reminder that nobility is granted by the king's will, and that even the mightiest warrior is nothing without his sovereign's favor.

The Ritual

Before the investiture, the new baron must undergo the following steps:

• He must arrive at the royal court unarmed, leaving behind his sword, armor, and all symbols of his former rank. Even the smallest blade is forbidden, and he must be searched to ensure compliance.
• He must wear humble garments, often a simple linen tunic and bare feet, symbolizing his dependence on the king’s grace for wealth and status.
• Upon entering the throne room, he must bow deeply and remain kneeling until given permission to rise. Some kings prolong this moment, forcing the baron to kneel as a display of authority.
• He then recites the Oath of Fealty, swearing loyalty, obedience, and service to the crown.
• If the king is pleased, he presents the Baronial Chain, the sigil of the new lord's station, and allows him to rise as a noble in his own right.

Symbolism & Purpose

The ritual is a humbling experience, stripping the new baron of pride before granting him power. It also serves a practical purpose—ensuring that no newly appointed noble arrives before the king armed and dangerous. Historically, this tradition arose after a failed coup, where an ambitious lord attempted to assassinate his liege during his own investiture. Since then, no new baron may enter the king's presence bearing steel.

"A man may be a warrior, a conqueror, a lord of men. But before his king, he is only a servant. He will rise only when I allow it." — King Aeldric II of Gorundia

Controversy & Variations

Some veteran warriors resent the ritual, feeling it strips them of their dignity. Others embrace it as a necessary act of loyalty. Certain border lords, who earn their titles through blood and battle, have been known to attend in garments stained with dust and sweat, a quiet protest against the perceived weakness of courtly traditions.

In some regions, a baron may carry a broken blade, symbolizing that while he once wielded power alone, he now bends his strength to the service of the crown. However, this practice is not universally accepted.

Final Thoughts

The Rite of Humble Fealty remains an essential part of baronial investiture, a test of humility, loyalty, and submission to the throne. Whether seen as a mark of honor or a political necessity, every baron must kneel before the king before he may rule.