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{{Infobox royalty
{{Infobox royalty
| name          = Melisende III
| name          = Melisende III
| image        =  <imgur w=220>H8xpWtd.png</imgur>
| image        =  Melisende III, 2018.jpg
| image_size    = 220px
| caption      = Melisende in 2018
| caption      = Melisende in 2018
| succession    = [[Monarchy of Sydalon|Queen of Sydalon]] {{resize|7.5pt|([[Monarchy of Sydalon#Titles, Styles and Honors|more...]])}}
| succession    = [[Monarchy of Sydalon|Queen of Sydalon]]  
| moretext      =
| moretext      = ([[Monarchy of Sydalon#Titles, Styles and Honors|more...]])
<!--Syd round one-->
<!--Syd round one-->
| reign        = 3 September 2017 – present
| reign        = 22 May 2013 – present
| reign-type    =
| reign-type    =
| coronation    = 3 October 2017
| coronation    = 1 July 2013
| predecessor  = [[Jordan IX of Sydalon|Jordan IX]]
| predecessor  = [[Desiderius I of Sydalon|Desiderius I]]
| cor-type      = {{wp|Anointing}}
| cor-type      = {{wp|Anointing}}
| suc-type      = Heir apparent
| suc-type      = Heir apparent
| successor    = [[Hugh, Prince of Petra]]
| successor    = [[Hugh, Prince of Petra]]
<!--Ascalzar-->
| succession1  = [[Ascalzar#Monarch|Co-Princess of Ascalzar]]
| reign1        = 3 September 2017 – present
| predecessor1  = [[Jordan IX of Sydalon|Jordan IX]]
| reg-type1    = [[Captain-General of Ascalzar|Captains-General]]{{nbsp}}
| regent1      = {{List collapsed|title=''See list''|1=[[Hiram Abdosir]]|2=[[Prince Renartus, Count of Rema|Count of Rema]]}}
| reg-type2    = [[First Counsellor of Ascalzar|First Counsellor]]{{nbsp}}
| regent2      = [[Rafael Matamoros]]
| spouse              = {{ubl
| spouse              = {{ubl
|{{marriage|[[Godfrey Galan]]|13 June 2013|23 April 2016|end=annulled}}
| {{marriage|[[Godfrey Galan]]|13 June 2010|23 April 2013|end=annulled}}
|
| {{marriage|[[Michael of Dakmoor]]|3 June 2014}}
}}
}}
| spouse-type  = Spouses
| spouse-type  = Spouses
| issue                = {{ubl
| issue                = {{ubl
| [[Hugh, Prince of Petra]]
| [[Hugh, Prince of Petra]]
|
| [[Melisende of Sydalon|Princess Melisende]]
|
| [[Elisabetta of Sydalon|Princess Elisabetta]]
| [[Michael of Sydalon|Prince Michael]]
| [[Desiderius of Sydalon|Prince Desiderius]]
| [[Belandra of Sydalon|Princess Belandra]]
| [[Esmerelda of Sydalon|Princess Esmerelda]]
| [[Jordan of Sydalon (born 2021)|Prince Jordan]]
| [[Izara of Sydalon (born 2023)|Princess Izara]]
| [[Benjamin of Sydalon|Prince Benjamin]]
}}  
}}  
| full name            = Melisende Belandra Elissa Emmanuelle Dianne
| full name            = Melisende Belandra Elissa Emmanuelle Dianne
| house                = [[House of Aultavilla|Aultavilla]] <small>(official)</small><br>[[House of Villeine|Villeine]] <small>({{wp|Patrilineality|agnatic}})</small>
| house                = [[House of Aultavilla|Aultavilla]] <small>(official)</small><br>[[House of Toron|Toron]] <small>([[wikipedia:Patrilineality|agnatic]])</small>
| father              = [[Desiderius, Prince of Petra]]
| father              = [[Desiderius I of Sydalon|Desiderius I]]
| mother              = [[Eirene of Latium]]
| mother              = [[Christina of Latium]]
| birth_date          = {{birth date and age|1993|8|5|df=y}}
| birth_date          = {{birth date and age|1990|8|5|df=y}}
| birth_place          = Palis de Aultavilla, [[Ostracine (city)|Ostracine]], [[Sydalon]]
| birth_place          = Castella Amala, Kalkara, [[Toron]]
| religion            = {{wp|Roman Catholic Church|Fabrian Catholic}}
| religion            = [[Fabrian Catholic Church|Fabrian Catholicism]]
|}}
|}}
{{Template:Sydalene Royal Family}}
{{Template:Sydalene Royal Family}}
'''Melisende III''' (''Melisende Belandra Elissa Emmanuelle Dianne''; b. 5 August 1993) is the [[Monarchy of Sydalon|Queen of Sydalon]].  
'''Melisende III''' (''Melisende Belandra Elissa Emmanuelle Dianne''; b. 5 August 1990) is the [[Monarchy of Sydalon|Queen of Sydalon]].  


Melisende was born in [[Ostracine (city)|Ostracine]] as the first child of [[Desiderius, Prince of Petra]] and [[Eirene of Latium|Princess Eirene of Latium]]. She was educated primarily from the home, until her enrollment at [[University of Castellum Iohannes XIII#Constituent colleges|Empress Alexandra College, Castellum]], where she studied international relations and history. She briefly served in the [[Sydalene Defense Forces]] from 2011 through 2012 for her mandatory service requirements. In 2013, she married [[Godfrey Galan]], and the marriage ended in an annulment by 2016. In 2018 she was engaged to [[Raimund, Hereditary Lord of Hayan]], though the engagement ended in November 2018.  
Melisende was born in [[Kalkara]], [[Toron]], as the eldest child of [[Desiderius I of Sydalon|King Desiderius I]] and [[Christina of Latium|Princess Christina of Latium]]. She was educated by private tutors until she enrolled at [[University of Castellum Iohannes XIII#Constituent colleges|Empress Alexandra College, Castellum]]. She studied international relations and history before dropping out to become Queen in 2013. She briefly served as a reservist in the [[Sydalene Defense Forces]] from 2011 through 2012 for her mandatory service requirements. In 2010, she married [[Godfrey Galan]]; however, the marriage ended in an annulment in 2013. In 2014, she married [[Michael of Dakmoor|Prince Michael of Dakmoor]].  


Her father passed away in 2015, after which she served as {{wp|heir apparent}}. She began to take up formal royal duties in 2013, culminating with her appointment as regent from 2015 until her own reign in 2017. After the death of [[Jordan IX of Sydalon|Jordan IX]], in 2017, Melisende became {{wp|Queen regnant}} of Sydalon, [[Ascalzar#Monarchy|Co-Princess of Ascalzar]], and [[Order of the Holy Lance#Grand Master|Grand Master of the Order of the Holy Lance]]. She is the youngest Sydalene monarch since the reign of [[Belandra III of Sydalon|Belandra III]] in 1834. Melisende's reign was impacted following the arrest of [[Adeodatus du Caeseti]], and the arrest of members of the [[Order of the Holy Lance]] for sexual impropiety, eventually leading to the [[Sydalene Revolution]]. Throughout the revolution, Melisende held court in [[Ascalzar]], until the successful capture of [[Sydalon (city)|Sydalon]] and the [[Select Committee for Popular Unity and Safety (Sydalon)|leaders]] of the revolution in May 2018. She called for a new constitutional amendments in June 2018, though has yet to introduce any formal changes.
Melisende became Monarch of Sydalon following the death of her father in 2013. She became the youngest Sydalene monarch since of [[Belandra III of Sydalon|Queen Belandra III]] in 1834. A major challenge in her early reign came with the [[2016 New Year's Revolt]], which saw Sydalon faced with the largest domestic uprising since the 1970s [[Yarden revisionist movements|anti-Accords]] protests and uprisings. Her reign has so far resulted in the creation of the [[National Assembly (Sydalon)|National Assembly]] and a sharp rise extremism and [[Yarden Accords|anti-Accords]] domestic politics.
==Early life and education==
==Early life and education==
Melisende was born on 5 August 1993, at Palis de Aultavilla, in Ostracine as the eldest child and daughter of [[Desiderius, Crown Prince of Sydalon|Desiderius, Prince of Petra]] and [[Eirene of Latium|Princess Eirene of Latium]]. She has three younger brothers, [[Prince William of Sydalon|William]], [[Prince Roletus of Sydalon|Roletus]], [[Prince Bohemond of Sydalon|Bohemond]]; and a younger sister [[Princess Elisabetta of Petra|Elisabetta]]. Melisende was baptized into the {{wp|Roman Catholic Church|Fabrian Catholic Church}} on 17 September 1993, in [[Kerkouane]], by Archbishop Hanno Drobeta, with her godparents being, [[Prince Renartus, Count of Rema|Prince Renartus of Sydalon]] (her paternal uncle); [[Jordan IX of Sydalon|King Jordan IX of Sydalon]] (her paternal grandfather); [[Caroline of Ghant|Caroline of Ghant, Queen consort of Onneria]] (her mother's close friend); and [[Diana Augusta|Latin Empress Diana Augusta]] (her maternal grandmother). As the eldest granddaughter of the heir apparent, Melisende was third in line to the [[Monarchy of Sydalon|Sydalene throne]] at her birth and was afforded the title <nowiki>"Princess of Aballava"</nowiki>.
Melisende was born on 5 August 1990, at Castella Amala, in Kalkara, Toron as the eldest child and daughter of then [[Desiderius, Prince of Petra]] and [[Christina of Latium|Princess Christina of Latium]]. As the eldest child of the Prince of Petra, Melisende was created Duchess of Diban upon her birth, with letters patent issued by the Prince's household. She has four younger brothers, [[Sebastian I, Duke of Toron|Sebastian]], [[Prince William of Sydalon|William]], [[Prince Roletus of Sydalon|Roletus]], [[Prince Bohemond of Sydalon|Bohemond]]; and a younger sister [[Princess Desideria of Sydalon|Desideria]].
 
Melisende was baptized into the {{wp|Roman Catholic Church|Fabrian Catholic Church}} on 17 September 1990, in [[Sarepta]], by Pope Ignatius I, with her godparents being, [[Francis I, Duke of Rema]] (her father's brother); Delphine of Philippopolis (Francis' wife); then [[Prince Theodosius, Duke of Beroea|Prince Theodosius of Latium]] (her mother's brother; and [[Eirene of Latium|Princess Eirene of Latium]] (her mother's sister). As the eldest child of the heir apparent, Melisende was second in line to the [[Monarchy of Sydalon|Sydalene throne]]. As heir apparent to the [[Prince of Petra]], Melisende was granted the title of <nowiki>"Duchess of Diban"</nowiki>.
===Education===
===Education===
Melisende was primarily educated by private tutors and governesses that were hired by her parents. Her lessons primarily focused on art, history, language, scripture, and the [[Constitution of Sydalon|Constitution]]. Throughout her childhood and education, Melisende was also regularly tutored by members of the clergy, most notably Archbishop Hanno Atiliue of Sydalon in her teenage years.
Melisende was primarily educated by private tutors and governesses that were hired by her parents. Her lessons primarily focused on art, history, language, scripture, and the [[Constitution of Sydalon|Constitution]]. Throughout her childhood and education, Melisende was also regularly tutored by members of the clergy, most notably the [[Pope (Ajax)|Pope Ignatius I]] in her teenage years.  
 
Melisende became the first member of the Sydalene Royal Family to attend university when she was enrolled at [[University of Castellum Iohannes XIII#Constituent colleges|Empress Alexandra College, Castellum]] in 2013 after completing a gap year in which she completed a year of mandatory military service. Her enrollment was initially controversial among noble circles in Sydalon when it was reported she would be living in student housing. After the report, the Royal Family announced that Melisende would be living in off-campus housing with [[Maria of Latium|Princess Maria of Latium]] at Velia House. She gained admission to Empress Alexandra College, a constituent college of [[University of Castellum Iohannes XIII]]. While in university, she studied international relations and history. She participated in a number of extra-curricular activities, including equestrian. Melisende was also student leader of the campus's Catholic Student Union and occasionally attending meetings of the college's [[Conservative and Imperial Party|Student Conservatives]] club.
==Royal duties==
Upon turning 18, Melisende began to partake in various royal duties on behalf of her grandfather, and even her father who was heir apparent at the time. One of these early duties was as representative of King Jordan at the [[Ludi Circenses|2011 Ludi Circenses]]. Melisende became Honorary President of the [[Sydalene Football Association]] in November 2012, and while an honorary position in nature, Melisende was integral in securing Sydalon as the host of the [[UAFA Ajax Cup|2014 UAFA World Cup]].
[[File:Princess Melisende of Sydalon in military.jpg|175px|thumb|right|Princess Melisende during her mandatory service with the [[Sydalene Defense Forces]], 2012.]]
However it wasn't until Melisende turned 19 that she began to more actively assume duties, the first of which was an official visit to [[Ascalzar]] with her father, [[Desiderius, Crown Prince of Sydalon|Desiderius, Prince of Petra]]. She also accompanied King Jordan during his 2012 Belisarian trip to [[Latium]], [[Vannois]], [[Eagleland]], [[Lihnidos]], and [[Nekor]]. Her first solo international visit came in late 2012 when she traveled to [[Langael]], a predominantly Catholic region of [[Ghant]]. It is believed this is when Melisende first met [[Godfrey Galan]]. Melisende met with Lord Donal of Langael, and reportedly had elected to remain in Langael for two extra days before returning to Sydalon. They became engaged in December 2012, and would marry in summer 2013.
 
In early 2013, Chancellor-General Recared Athanagild of the [[Order of the Holy Lance]] passed away creating the need for [[Jordan IX of Sydalon|King Jordan IX's]] regent to appoint a replacement. Days after Athanagild's funeral, Melisende publicly announced that she desired to be appointed to the position. Melisende's declaration sparked a debate in the [[Senate of Sydalon|Senate]] as to whether she could serve as Chancellor-General without any prior military service or career. Melisende would eventually attend the debates in person, citing that the role was largely administrative and countered that as the heir apparent she was best suited to attend to the administrative duties of Chancellor-General as they related to local governance in [[Petra (county)|Petra]]. King Jordan eventually appointed [[Adeodatus du Caeseti]] to the position.
==Regent==
King Jordan IX suffered a stroke on 2 March 2011. Days later, royal doctors announced that the King had also been diagnosed with dementia, which prompted the [[High Court of Sydalon|Haut Cour]] to begin the process of formalizing a regency. Melisende's father, [[Desiderius, Crown Prince of Sydalon|Desiderius, Prince of Petra]], was originally appointed regent, however would eventually step down on 1 June 2013 after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
 
Melisende was nominated to serve as an alternate regent by the royal household and Jordan IX's last will and testament, though faced opposition from the Haut Cour and her father, who sought to appoint [[Héloïse Baudelaire|Queen Héloïse]] as regent, and a bloc of Senators stated their desire to install [[Eirene of Latium|Eirene, Princess of Petra]] as regent. Melisende was eventually passed over in favor of Queen Héloïse, as Melisende had yet to finish her education. Melisende continued to serve on the Haut Cour, and was granted more responsibilities upon completing university. Melisende's first major royal duty as a member of the Haut Cour was overseeing her father's state funeral, as he died 4 months after stepping down as regent.
==Pre-revolution reign==
In late August 2017, [[Jordan IX of Sydalon|King Jordan IX]] suffered a stroke and had been hospitalized, passing away on 3 September 2017. It was rumored that Melisende would assume the regnal name Elissa upon taking the throne, however she was proclaimed as Melisende III by the Royal Herald.
[[File:Melisende III of Sydalon speaking at event.jpg|175px|thumb|right|Melisende visiting the village of Kerkouane after her ascension, October 2017.]]
Melisende was anointed on 3 October 2017 in a ceremony hosted at Sancte Sapientie in the city of Sydalon. It was the first time that a Sydalene monarch had been anointed at Sancte Sapientie in nearly 200 years. The event was attended by prominent members of the [[Senate of Sydalon|Senate]], as well as representatives from many nations and monarchies from around the [[Ajax|world]].
===2017===
Melisende's first act as monarch was to replace [[Konstanse Balbie|First Secretary Ibelina]] after reports that she to name her own replacement as she was unable to do so during her time as regent. Ibelina was removed from office by the Royal prerogative on October 10, and was replaced with [[Adeodata Saabi]]. While Saabi resigned her seat in the [[Senate of Sydalon#Popular Assembly|Popular Assembly]], Melisende's appointment of Saabi marked the first time in Sydalene history that a member of the Popular Assembly had been appointed First Secretary. Melisende ennobled Saabi as a <nowiki>"Lady of the Realm"</nowiki> moments after the announcement.
 
After the appointment of Saabi, Melisende ordered government to lift the ban on restricting senators on the [[Senate of Sydalon#Chamber of Peers|Chamber of Peers]] to join political parties. She also ordered the return of important government and executive offices to return to [[Sydalon (city)|Sydalon]]. She also explored legislation to require healthcare providers to offer free contraception. On November 4, Melisende provided Royal assent to a Senate bill ordering all healthcare providers in Sydalene markets to offer plans that provide free or significantly reduced contraception as part of carrier plans.
===Caeseti allegations===
Between late-October and early-November 2017, [[Adeodatus du Caeseti|Chancellor-General Adeodatus du Caeseti]] of the [[Order of the Holy Lance|Holy Lance]] faced numerous allegation of sexual misconduct and impropriety. These allegations continued to arise throughout the week while du Caeseti was overseas during a foreign visit to Catholic Belisarian nations. On November 1, du Caeseti was recalled to Ostracine by Melisende though he had refused to leave the Sydalene embassy in [[Castellum]]. The next day, du Caeseti attempted to flee the Sydalene embassy and make his way to a private jet to reach [[Ecclesiastical State|Fabria]], but was apprehended by Latin [[Frumentarii]] for questioning in relation to allegations from a Latin citizens of rape.  


Days later, du Caeseti was returned to Sydalon my Latin officials and was indicted on 11 criminal counts, including 7 for sexual misconduct by a Royal grand jury assembled by Melisende.<ref>[https://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=417994&p=32818722#p32818722 "du Caeseti Indicted; Queen Considers Replacements "] Depha Nuntia 4 November 2017</ref> The same day, Melisende exercised her {{wp|royal prerogative}} to initiate the process to expidite du Caeseti's removal while his criminal case was pending.  
Melisende became the first member of the Sydalene Royal Family to enroll at a non-military academy for university when she was enrolled at [[University of Castellum Iohannes XIII#Constituent colleges|Empress Alexandra College, Castellum]] in 2008. Her enrollment was initially controversial among noble circles in Sydalon when it was reported she would be living in student housing. After the report, the Royal Family rejected the claim and stated that Melisende would be living in off-campus housing with [[Maria of Latium|Princess Maria of Latium]] at Velia House, in [[Castellum]].


The pending criminal charges were not without controversy, as Melisende's decision to expedite du Caeseti's removal was met with numerous protesters claiming the allegations were <nowiki>"fake news and attacks against the faith"</nowiki>. The protests resulted in 17 arrests for violation of lese majeste laws. du Caeseti's supporters within the Order continued to denounce Melisdene's <nowiki>"unlawful removal"</nowiki> of du Caeseti, and called it an affront to God <nowiki>"unfit from the protector of Christendom's Holy Land."</nowiki> Melisdende censured the nearly 20 members of the Order's administrative upper echelon. As of November 15, the Sydalene Royal Army's 3rd Legion in Petra was mobilized, as was an army garrisoned near Ostracine.
She gained admission to Empress Alexandra College, a constituent college of [[University of Castellum Iohannes XIII]]. While in university, she studied international relations and history. She participated in a number of extra-curricular activities, including bible study. Melisende was also student leader of the campus's Catholic Student Union and occasionally attending meetings of the college's Student Conservatives club.
==As heir apparent==
Upon turning 18, Melisende began to undertake various royal duties on behalf of her grandfather, and her father who was at the time heir apparent. She served as the representative of King Jordan at the [[Ludi Circenses|2011 Ludi Circenses]]. Melisende became Honorary President of the [[Sydalene Football Association]] in November 2011, and while an honorary position in nature, Melisende played a role in securing Sydalon as the host of the [[UAFA Ajax Cup|2014 UAFA World Cup]].
[[File:Princess Melisende of Sydalon in military.jpg|175px|thumb|right|Princess Melisende as [[Prince of Petra|Princess of Petra]], in 2012.]]
However it wasn't until Melisende turned 19 that she began to more actively assume duties, the first of which was an official visit to [[Ascalzar]] with her father the King. She also accompanied her father during his 2012 Belisarian trip to [[Latium]], [[Garima]], [[Lihnidos]], and [[West Merovia]]. Her first solo international visit came in late 2010 when she traveled to [[Langael]], a predominantly Catholic region of [[Ghant|Low Ghant]]. It is believed this is when Melisende first met [[Godfrey Galan]]. Melisende met with Lord Donal of Langael, and reportedly had elected to remain in Langael for two extra days before returning to Sydalon. Their engagement was announced in November 2010, marrying in summer 2012.


On November 18, the Royal household announced that it had narrowed down the list of possible replacements down to three.
In early 2011, Chancellor-General Recared Athanagild of the [[Order of the Holy Lance]] passed away creating the need for Melisende to appoint a replacement. Days after Athanagild's funeral, Melisende publicly announced that she desired to directly hold the office herself concurrently with Grand Master. Melisende's declaration sparked a debate in the [[General Courts of Petra|Petran General Courts]] as to whether she should serve as Chancellor-General without any prior military service or career. Melisende eventually appointed [[Adeodatus du Caeseti]] to the position.
==Sydalene Revolution==
==Early reign==
The conflict now referred to as the [[Sydalene Revolution]] began on 31 December 2017 as a series of protests against the government and Melisende's decision to push for the death penalty for deposed [[Order of the Holy Lance]] members, including [[Adeodatus du Caeseti]]. Popular support for Melisende's actions in the Caeseti scandal were initially supportive of her swift action, many saw her subsequent actions of involving herself into criminal prosecution as too far; this resulted in protests at Sant Filipe courthouse in Ostracine, with later protests at the royal residence, Palis de Aultavilla. The protests remained peaceful until January 3, when Royal Guards outside of Palis de Aultavilla opened fire on protesters after broke palace windows and injured guards by throwing bricks or stones. The incident left 5 dead.<ref>[https://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=417994&p=33205047#p33205047 "Protests Grow, Clash with Royal Guard in Ostracine "] Depha Nuntia 2 January 2018</ref>
In spring 2013, [[Desiderius I of Sydalon|King Desiderius I]] passed away from pancreatic cancer and Melisende ascended to the throne.


The incident at the Palis de Aultavilla gates enraged protesters, who began to gather in greater numbers all throughout the palace district, bottling up streets and bringing the government to a grinding halt due to fear of attack. Later that night, protesters gathered at Sant Filipe forced police and local guards to retreat into the building. Protesters stormed the facility's gates, and were fired at by police, though eventually captured the facility and released the few prisoners held there.<ref>[https://forum.nationstates.net/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=417994&p=33208312#p33208312 "Protesters Storm Pontu Sant Filipe"] Depha Nuntia 3 January 2018</ref> Those within Palis de Aultavilla claim Melisende was <nowiki>"distraught" and "unsettled"</nowiki> at the news, both by the actions of the police and the protesters.  
Melisende was anointed on 1 July 2013 in a ceremony hosted at [[Sydalon (City)|Cathedral of the Holy Sepulchre]], in the city of Sydalon. The event was attended by prominent members of the [[Parliament of Sydalon|Parliament]], as well as representatives from many nations and monarchies from around the [[Ajax|world]].
===Flight to Ascalzar===
===First days===
On 9 January 2018, protesters continued to gather throughout Ostracine, effectively shutting down the government quarter, and marched on Palis de Aultavilla. Royal Guards clashed with those gathered throughout the day, resulting in three deaths, and nearly fifty injuries. Just after mid-day, protesters stormed the palace gates, forcing a last minute evacuation of the building by helicopter. Melisende and most members of her inner circle arrived in [[Ascalzar]] later that day, where she continues to hold court.
Melisende's first act as monarch was to replace [[Konstans III, Lord of Ibelina|The Lord of Ibelina]] as Chancellor. Ibelina was removed from office by the Royal prerogative on 10 June, and was replaced with [[Theodoric VI, Marquis of Vada]]. Melisende ordered government to lift the ban on restricting senators on the [[Senate (Sydalon)|Senate]] from joining political parties.
===End of the revolution===
==New Years' Revolt==
Through an alliance led by [[Sydalon|royalist]] forces, [[Latium]], and the [[Order of Saint Joseph]], the revolution ended on 10 May 2018 with the capture of [[Sydalon (city)|Sydalon]] and the arrest of [[Adi Philosir]] and other key members of the [[Select Committee for Popular Unity and Safety (Sydalon)|Committee for Popular Unity and Safety]]. She returned to the city the following day, announcing plans for more representative constitutional amendments.
{{main|2016 New Year's Revolt}}
==Post-revolution reign==
Between late-October and early-November 2014, [[Adeodatus du Caeseti|Chancellor-General Adeodatus du Caeseti]] of the [[Order of the Holy Lance|Holy Lance]] faced numerous allegation of sexual misconduct and impropriety. These allegations continued to arise throughout the week while Caeseti was overseas during a foreign visit to Catholic nations. On November 1, Caeseti was recalled to Ostracine by [[Richard III, Duke of Ilium|Richard of Sydalon, Duke of Surra]], [[Prince of Petra|Regent of Petra]], though Caeseti had refused to leave the Sydalene embassy in [[Castellum]]. The next day, Caeseti attempted to flee the Sydalene embassy and make his way to a private jet to reach [[Fabria]], but was apprehended by Latin [[Frumentarii]] for questioning in relation to allegations from a Latin citizens of rape.  
===2018===
Melisende appointed [[Fernande Mifsud]] to the new office of [[List of heads of government of Sydalon|Chancellor]] to serve as interim head of government. In May, she called for new elections and dissolved the [[Senate of Sydalon|Senate]]. It became the first legislative election in Sydalon where the results determined the de facto head of government. After no party earned a majority, Melisende discussed the possibility of a second election as early on there appeared no viable coalition. By August 21, she reappointed Mifsud to Chancellor to lead a minority coalition.


Melisende's government during the Mifsud era has been described as tumultuous at best as numerous scandals eventually toppled the attempt at parliamentary democracy in Sydalon. On 27 August 2018, Melisende approved an easing of sanctions on [[Mutul]], which were later revealed to be proposed by then Minister of Finance and Economy Annibale Milki. The news of the proposed eased sanctions prompted outcry from various nations, such as [[Belfras]],  [[Fakolana]], and [[Yisrael]], but were praised by [[Liothidia]], and [[Sante Reze]], the later due to the only difference between Mutulese capital punishment and other nations is the religious labeling attached. After pressures from allied nations, and the [[National Assembly of Sydalon|National Assembly]], Melisende issued a royal decree halting the proposed ease, and sacked Minister Milki.
Days later, Caeseti was returned to Sydalon by Latin officials and was indicted on 11 criminal counts, including 7 for sexual misconduct by a Royal grand jury assembled by Melisende. The same day, Melisende exercised her {{wp|royal prerogative}} to initiate the process to expedite du Caeseti's removal while his criminal case was pending.
[[File:Melisende III of Sydalon speaking at event.jpg|175px|thumb|right|Melisende visiting the village of Sarepta, October 2017.]]
The pending criminal charges were not without controversy, as Melisende's decision to expedite du Caeseti's removal was met with numerous protesters claiming the allegations were <nowiki>"fake news and attacks against the faith"</nowiki>. The protests resulted in 17 arrests for violation of lese majeste laws. Caeseti's supporters within the Order continued to denounce Melisdene's <nowiki>"unlawful removal"</nowiki> of Caeseti, and called it an affront to God <nowiki>"unfit from the protector of Christendom's Holy Land."</nowiki> Melisdende censured the nearly 20 members of the Order's administrative upper echelon. As of November 15, the Sydalene Royal Army's 3rd Legion in Petra was mobilized, as was an army garrisoned near Ostracine.


On November 18, the Royal household announced that it had narrowed down the list of possible replacements down to three. The following week, [[Prince of Petra|Prince-Regent]] The Duke of Surra appointed [[Eradi Kanmil]]; however, it resulted in the retirement of at least 10 of the 20 highest ranking officers within the order.
==Constitutional reforms==
{{main|National Assembly (Sydalon){{!}}National Assembly}}
==Scandals==
===Mutulese sanctions===
As the revolutionary threat subsided, Melisende made overtures to  government during the Mifsud era has been described as tumultuous at best as numerous scandals eventually toppled the attempt at parliamentary democracy in Sydalon. On 27 August 2018, Melisende approved an easing of sanctions on [[Mutul]], which were later revealed to be proposed by then Minister of Finance and Economy Annibale Milki. The news of the proposed eased sanctions prompted outcry from various nations, such as [[Belfras]], [[Fakolana]], and [[Yisrael]], but were praised by [[Sante Reze]]. After pressures from allied nations, and the Parliament, Melisende issued a royal decree halting the proposed ease, and sacked Minister Milki.
===Annulment controversy===
===Mifsud government collapse===
On October 23, government emails from the [[Council of Ministers of Sydalon|Council of Ministers]] were leaked by Ghant-based Honeydrippers. The Honeydippers scandal implicated [[People's Party (Sydalon|People's Party]] Leader and Minister of the Interior Pelae Arvad, Minister of Foreign Affairs Desiderius de Villepena, and Minister of Agriculture Michael Galea. The leaked emails cover topics ranging from lobbying firms offering to meet with members of the Council of Ministers to The Queen to The Prince of Petra. In the emails, government ministers were revealed to accept bribes, and violate lese majeste laws for accusing Melisende of having an affair during her marriage to [[Godfrey Galan]]. The scandal prompted the resignation of the government ministers involved, and a dissolution of the National Assembly with new elections by Queen Melisende.  
On October 23, government emails from the [[Council of Ministers of Sydalon|Council of Ministers]] were leaked by Ghant-based Honeydrippers. The Honeydippers scandal implicated [[People's Party (Sydalon|People's Party]] Leader and Minister of the Interior Pelae Arvad, Minister of Foreign Affairs Desiderius de Villepena, and Minister of Agriculture Michael Galea. The leaked emails cover topics ranging from lobbying firms offering to meet with members of the Council of Ministers to The Queen to The Prince of Petra. In the emails, government ministers were revealed to accept bribes, and violate lese majeste laws for accusing Melisende of having an affair during her marriage to [[Godfrey Galan]]. The scandal prompted the resignation of the government ministers involved, and a dissolution of the National Assembly with new elections by Queen Melisende.  


A second election took place on November 24, though unlike the summer 2018 election, Melisende has not appointed any ministers that serve in the National Assembly for the majority party.
A second election took place on November 24, though unlike the summer 2018 election, Melisende did not appoint any individual that currently served in the National Assembly to serve on the Council of Ministers as promised
==Personal life==
==Personal life==
===Marriage to Godfrey Galan===
===Marriage to Godfrey Galan===
On 13 June 2013, Melisende married Godfrey Galan, the youngest son of Ghantish nobleman Donal, Lord of Langael, at a ceremony in the city of Sydalon at the Cathedral of the Holy Sepulchre and was performed by Archbishop Hanno Drobeta of Sydalon. Melisende was first betrothed to Godfrey in December 2012. The ceremony was attended by numerous high profile guests including monarchs or representatives from [[Latium]], [[Ghant]], [[Lyncanestria]], and many others. Melisende and Godfrey were bestowed Castela du Normane in Alalia as their official residence, though would spend most of their time in [[Castellum]] until Melisende graduated from university in spring 2016. In 2016, Castra Rubea in [[Sydalon (city)|Sydalon]] became Melisende's primary residence. She gave birth to their only child, [[Hugh, Prince of Petra]], in 2015.
On 13 June 2012, Melisende married Godfrey Galan, the youngest son of Ghantish nobleman Donal, Lord of Langael, at a ceremony in the city of Sydalon at the Cathedral of the Holy Sepulchre and was performed by the Pope. Melisende was first betrothed to Godfrey in December 2010. The ceremony was attended by numerous high profile guests including monarchs or representatives from [[Latium]], [[Ghant]], [[Lyncanestria]], and many others. Melisende and Godfrey were bestowed Castela du Normane. In 2016, Castra Rubea in [[Sydalon (city)|Sydalon]] became Melisende's primary residence. She gave birth to their only child, [[Hugh, Prince of Petra]], in 2012.


Melisende's marriage to Godfrey ended on 23 April 2016 when she sought an annulment after Godfrey had been outed as a homosexual. The annulment was granted by [[Pope Julius IV]] on 23 April 2016.
Melisende's marriage to Godfrey ended on 23 April 2013, after Pope Ignatius I granted an annulment after Godfrey was outed as a homosexual.
===Engagement to Raimund of Hayan===
===Marriage to Michael of Dakmoor===
In May 2018, the Royal Household announced that Melisende was engaged to [[Raimund, Hereditary Lord of Hayan]], heir to the [[Political divisions of Sydalon#Domains|Lordship of Hayan]] in southern Sydalon. The wedding was initially set for 5 July 2018, at the Cathedral of the Holy Sepulchre, in [[Sydalon (city)|Sydalon]]. The wedding was postponed in June, due to conflicting with the [[Sydalene legislative election, 2018|legislative election]] in August. No further date was made public, but Royal Household statements from the Queen's Private Secretary Spiru Tawmi indicated the health of Grand Master Scaligar would see further postponement until 2019.  
After her annulment, Melisende courted a number of suitors from 2013 to 2014, including XXXX, [[Edgar of Gaemar|Prince Edgar of Gaemar]], and [[Gabriel, Hereditary Prince of Montgisard]]. However, the Royal Household announced Melisende's engagement to [[Michael of Dakmoor|Prince Michael of Dakmoor]] in January 2014, with whom she was alleged to be involved in an affair with as early as 2010.


The engagement ended in November 2018.
She and Michael were married on 3 June 2014, at [[Sydalon (city)|Cathedral of the Holy Sepulchre]] in the city of Sydalon. The service was performed by the Pope, with invitees from throughout the [[Ajax|world]]. She gave birth to their first child, [[Melisende of Sydalon (born 2014)|Melisende]] in August 2014. A third child, [[Elisabetta of Sydalon (born 2016)|Elisabetta]], was born in 2016. In February 2018, she gave birth to twins: Michael and Desiderius. Her sixth child, [[Belandra of Sydalon|Belandra]], was born in 2019. Her seventh child, [[Esmeralda of Sydalon|Esmeralda]], was born on 19 November 2020. Less than a year later, on 4 November 2021, Melisende gave birth to her eighth child, [[Jordan of Sydalon (born 2021)|Jordan]]. Melisende's ninth child, Izara, was born on 26 January 2023. She is currently pregnant with her tenth child, who is due in summer 2024.
==Styles, honors, and arms==
==Styles, honors, and arms==
{{Infobox Royal styles
| name        =The Queen
| image      = <imgur w=80>LdYOluV.png</imgur>
| reference  = Her Royal Majesty
| spoken      = Your Majesty
| alternative = Her Majesty
}}
===Styles===
===Styles===
*'''5 August 1993 – 22 October 2015:''' ''Her Royal Highness'' Princess Melisende of Petra
*'''5 August 1993 – 3 March 2011:''' ''Her Royal Highness'' The Duchess of Diban
*'''22 October 2015 – 3 September 2017:''' ''Her Royal Highness'' The Princess of Petra
*'''3 March 2011 – 22 May 2013:''' ''Her Royal Highness'' The Princess of Petra
**'''22 October 2015 – 3 September 2017:''' ''Her Royal Highness'' The Duchess of Aballava
*'''22 May 2013 – present:''' ''Her Royal Majesty'' The Queen
*'''3 September 2017 – present:''' ''Her Royal Majesty'' The Queen
** ''in Ascalzar'': '''3 September 2017 – present:''' ''Her Majesty'' The Queen, Princess of Ascalzar
===Foreign decorations===
===Foreign decorations===
*{{flag|Ascalzar}}: Dame Grand Cross of the Order of Hieronymus I [[File:MEX Order of the Aztec Eagle 5Class BAR.png|50px]] <small>November 2014</small>
*{{flag|Ascalzar}}: Dame Grand Cross of the Order of Hieronymus I [[File:MEX Order of the Aztec Eagle 5Class BAR.png|50px]] <small>November 2014</small>
*{{flag|Latium}}: Knight of the Order of the Ram [[File:Red ribbon bar - general use.svg|50px]] <small>2 August 2014</small>
*{{flag|Latium}}: Knight of the Order of the Ram [[File:Red ribbon bar - general use.svg|50px]] <small>2 August 2014</small>
*{{flag|Lyncanestria}}: Officer of the Order of the Imperial Lion <imgur w="50">5qFKBzS.png</imgur> <small>March 2017</small>
*{{flag|Lyncanestria}}: Officer of the Order of the Imperial Lion <imgur w="50">5qFKBzS.png</imgur> <small>March 2017</small>
* {{flagicon|South Rietumimark}} [[Government-in-exile of the Tsardom of Rietumimark|South Rietumimark]]: [[Hero of the Tsar]], Master Class [[File:OrderStGeorge2cl_rib.png|50px]] <small>3 May 2015</small>


==Issue==
==Issue==
Line 131: Line 112:
!align="center" style="background: #f9f9f9: width:12em:" | Spouses
!align="center" style="background: #f9f9f9: width:12em:" | Spouses
|-
|-
|colspan=4|'' '''By [[Godfrey Galan]] (b. 1990):''' '' <!--Michael of Dakmoor-->
|colspan=4|'' '''By [[Godfrey Galan]] (b. 1990):''' ''  
|-
| [[Hugh, Prince of Petra]]||{{birth date and age|2012|5|10|df=y}}|| ||
|-
|colspan=4|'' '''By [[Michael of Dakmoor|Prince Michael of Dakmoor]] (b. 1991):''' ''
|-
| [[Melisende of Sydalon|Princess Melisende of Sydalon]]||{{birth date and age|2014|8|1|df=y}}|| ||
|-
|-
| [[Hugh, Prince of Petra]]||{{birth date and age|2015|4|10|df=y}}|| ||  
| [[Elisabetta of Sydalon|Princess Elisabetta of Sydalon]]||{{birth date and age|2016|3|18|df=y}}|| ||
|-
| [[Michael of Sydalon|Prince Michael of Sydalon]]||{{birth date and age|2017|9|12|df=y}}|| ||
|-
| [[Desiderius of Sydalon|Prince Desiderius of Sydalon]]||{{birth date and age|2017|9|12|df=y}}|| ||
|-
| [[Belandra of Sydalon|Princess Belandra of Sydalon]]||{{birth date and age|2019|2|28|df=y}}|| ||
|-
| [[Esmerelda of Sydalon|Princess Esmerelda of Sydalon]]||{{birth date and age|2020|11|19|df=y}}|| ||
|-
| [[Jordan of Sydalon (born 2021)|Prince Jordan of Sydalon]]||{{birth date and age|2021|11|4|df=y}}|| ||
|-
| [[Izara of Sydalon|Princess Izara of Sydalon]]||{{birth date and age|2023|1|26|df=y}}|| ||
|-
| [[Benjamin of Sydalon|Prince Benjamin of Sydalon]]||{{birth date and age|2024|7|6|df=y}}|| ||  
|-
|-
|}
|}


==Ancestry==
==Ancestry==
 
{{ahnentafel
{{ahnentafel top|width=100%}}
|collapsible=yes
<center>{{ahnentafel-compact5
|collapsed=yes
|style=font-size: 90%; line-height: 110%;
|align=center
|border=1
|ref=
|boxstyle=padding-top: 0; padding-bottom: 0;
|boxstyle_1=background-color: #fcc;
|boxstyle_1=background-color: #fcc;
|boxstyle_2=background-color: #fb9;
|boxstyle_2=background-color: #fb9;
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|boxstyle_5=background-color: #9fe;
|boxstyle_5=background-color: #9fe;
|1= 1. '''Melisende III of Sydalon'''
|1= 1. '''Melisende III of Sydalon'''
|2= 2. [[Desiderius, Prince of Petra]]
|2= 2. [[Desiderius I of Sydalon]]
|3= 3. [[Eirene of Latium|Princess Eirene of Latium]]
|3= 3. [[Christina of Latium|Princess Christina of Latium]]
|4= 4. [[Jordan IX of Sydalon]]
|4= 4. [[Jordan IX of Sydalon]]
|5= 5. Melisende of Philipopolis
|5= 5. [[Melisende of Philippopolis]]
|6= 6. [[Prince Leo, Duke of Apennina]]
|6= 6. [[Leo X Claudius|Leo Claudius, Duke of Adrianople]]
|7= 7. [[Diana Augusta|Diana Augusta of Latium]]
|7= 7. [[Diana I Anicia]]
|8= 8. Tancred of Toron
|8= 8. Tancred II, Duke of Toron
|9= 9. [[Elissa IV of Sydalon]]
|9= 9. [[Elissa IV of Sydalon]]
|10= 10. Bohemond V, Count of Philippolis
|10= 10. [[Robert VI, Duke of Philippopolis]]
|11= 11. Melisende of Melfi
|11= 11. [[Olympias of Canosa]]
|12= 12. [[Jason Claudius, 36th Duke of Adrianople]]
|12= 12. [[Jacobus Claudius, Duke of Adrianople]]
|13= 13. Agnes Selicia
|13= 13. [[Isabella Martia]]
|14= 14. [[Constantine XIX of Latium]]
|14= 14. [[Constantine XIX Anicius]]
|15= 15. [[Princess Marie Christine of Épernon]]
|15= 15. [[Christine of Rahdenburg]]
|16= 16. Theodore IV, Count of Toron
|16= 16. Theodore IV, Duke of Toron
|17= 17. Emilia Matamoros Gallagán
|17= 17. Andrea of Iudila
|18= 18. [[Sebastián Ordaz|Sebastián Ordaz y Mendoza de Lorás]]
|18= 18. [[Sebastian IV, Duke of Ordaz]]
|19= 19. [[Emmanuelle I of Sydalon]]
|19= 19. [[Emmanuelle I of Garza & Sydalon]]
|20= 20. Bohemond IV, Count of Philippolis
|20= 20. [[Aubin III, Duke of Philippopolis]]
|21= 21. Emma
|21= 21. [[Emma of Melfi]]
|22= 22. Roger I, Lord of Melfi
|22= 22. [[John V, Count of Canosa]]
|23= 23. Dido Nysaa
|23= 23. [[Maria of Adelon|Princess Maria of Adelon]]
|24= 24. Theodosius Claudius, 35th Duke of Adrianople
|24= 24. [[Theodosius Claudius, Duke of Adrianople]]
|25= 25. Isabella Claudia
|25= 25. [[Isobel of Gaemar|Princess Isobel of Gaemar]]
|26= 26. Leo Selicius, 26th Lord of Pola
|26= 26. [[Constantine Martius|Duke Constantine Martius]]
|27= 27. Theodora Aemelia-Caepasia
|27= 27. [[Eusebia Rasinia]]
|28= 28. [[John Anicius, 3rd Duke of Beroea]]
|28= 28. [[John X Anicius]]
|29= 29. [[Joanna of Latium]]
|29= 29. [[Joanna I Anicia]]
|30= 30. [[Prince Henri, Duke of Épernon]]
|30= 30. [[William II, Elector of Rahdenburg]]
|31= 31. Tsarevna Afanasiia of Nekulturnya
|31= 31. Adalinda of Nyrundy
}}</center>
}}
{{ahnentafel bottom|width=100%}}


==References==
==See also==
*[[List of Sydalene monarchs]]
{{s-start}}
{{S-hou|[[House of Aultavilla]]|5 August|1990| | |House of Altvilla}}
{{s-reg}}
|-
{{s-bef|before=[[Desiderius I of Sydalon|Desiderius I]]<br /><small>''as King''</small>}}
{{s-ttl | title=[[Monarchy of Sydalon|Queen of Sydalon]] 
  |years=2013–present}}
{{s-inc |heir=[[Hugh, Prince of Petra]]|heir-type=Heir apparent}}
|-
{{s-roy-ajax|sy}}
|-
{{S-bef|before=[[Desiderius I of Sydalon|The Prince Desiderius]] <br /><small>''later became King Desiderius I''</small>}}
{{s-ttl | title=[[Prince of Petra|Princess of Petra]] 
  |years=2011–2013}}
{{S-aft|after=[[Hugh, Prince of Petra|The Prince Hugh]]}}
|-
{{s-reg-ajax|pt-pr}}
{{S-bef|before=[[Desiderius I of Sydalon|The Prince Desiderius]] <br /><small>''later became King Desiderius I''</small>}}
{{s-ttl | title=[[Duke of Diban|Duchess of Diban]] 
  |years=1993–2011}}
{{S-aft|after=[[Hugh, Prince of Petra|The Prince Hugh]]}}
{{s-end}}
{{Sovereigns of monarchies (Ajax)}}
[[category:Sydalon]]
[[category:Sydalon]]
[[category:House of Aultavilla]]
[[category:House of Aultavilla]]
Line 190: Line 213:
[[category:Royalty]]
[[category:Royalty]]
[[category:People]]
[[category:People]]
[[category:Heads of state and government (Ajax)]]

Latest revision as of 00:45, 27 October 2024

Melisende III
Melisende III, 2018.jpg
Melisende in 2018
Queen of Sydalon
Reign22 May 2013 – present
Anointing1 July 2013
PredecessorDesiderius I
Heir apparentHugh, Prince of Petra
Born (1990-08-05) 5 August 1990 (age 34)
Castella Amala, Kalkara, Toron
Spouses
Issue
Full name
Melisende Belandra Elissa Emmanuelle Dianne
HouseAultavilla (official)
Toron (agnatic)
FatherDesiderius I
MotherChristina of Latium
ReligionFabrian Catholicism
Sydalene Royal Family
Coat of Arms of the Queen of Sydalon
Extended royal family
  • HRH Princess Elena of Fuvre
  • HRH Princess Adrienne of Fuvre

Melisende III (Melisende Belandra Elissa Emmanuelle Dianne; b. 5 August 1990) is the Queen of Sydalon.

Melisende was born in Kalkara, Toron, as the eldest child of King Desiderius I and Princess Christina of Latium. She was educated by private tutors until she enrolled at Empress Alexandra College, Castellum. She studied international relations and history before dropping out to become Queen in 2013. She briefly served as a reservist in the Sydalene Defense Forces from 2011 through 2012 for her mandatory service requirements. In 2010, she married Godfrey Galan; however, the marriage ended in an annulment in 2013. In 2014, she married Prince Michael of Dakmoor.

Melisende became Monarch of Sydalon following the death of her father in 2013. She became the youngest Sydalene monarch since of Queen Belandra III in 1834. A major challenge in her early reign came with the 2016 New Year's Revolt, which saw Sydalon faced with the largest domestic uprising since the 1970s anti-Accords protests and uprisings. Her reign has so far resulted in the creation of the National Assembly and a sharp rise extremism and anti-Accords domestic politics.

Early life and education

Melisende was born on 5 August 1990, at Castella Amala, in Kalkara, Toron as the eldest child and daughter of then Desiderius, Prince of Petra and Princess Christina of Latium. As the eldest child of the Prince of Petra, Melisende was created Duchess of Diban upon her birth, with letters patent issued by the Prince's household. She has four younger brothers, Sebastian, William, Roletus, Bohemond; and a younger sister Desideria.

Melisende was baptized into the Fabrian Catholic Church on 17 September 1990, in Sarepta, by Pope Ignatius I, with her godparents being, Francis I, Duke of Rema (her father's brother); Delphine of Philippopolis (Francis' wife); then Prince Theodosius of Latium (her mother's brother; and Princess Eirene of Latium (her mother's sister). As the eldest child of the heir apparent, Melisende was second in line to the Sydalene throne. As heir apparent to the Prince of Petra, Melisende was granted the title of "Duchess of Diban".

Education

Melisende was primarily educated by private tutors and governesses that were hired by her parents. Her lessons primarily focused on art, history, language, scripture, and the Constitution. Throughout her childhood and education, Melisende was also regularly tutored by members of the clergy, most notably the Pope Ignatius I in her teenage years.

Melisende became the first member of the Sydalene Royal Family to enroll at a non-military academy for university when she was enrolled at Empress Alexandra College, Castellum in 2008. Her enrollment was initially controversial among noble circles in Sydalon when it was reported she would be living in student housing. After the report, the Royal Family rejected the claim and stated that Melisende would be living in off-campus housing with Princess Maria of Latium at Velia House, in Castellum.

She gained admission to Empress Alexandra College, a constituent college of University of Castellum Iohannes XIII. While in university, she studied international relations and history. She participated in a number of extra-curricular activities, including bible study. Melisende was also student leader of the campus's Catholic Student Union and occasionally attending meetings of the college's Student Conservatives club.

As heir apparent

Upon turning 18, Melisende began to undertake various royal duties on behalf of her grandfather, and her father who was at the time heir apparent. She served as the representative of King Jordan at the 2011 Ludi Circenses. Melisende became Honorary President of the Sydalene Football Association in November 2011, and while an honorary position in nature, Melisende played a role in securing Sydalon as the host of the 2014 UAFA World Cup.

Princess Melisende as Princess of Petra, in 2012.

However it wasn't until Melisende turned 19 that she began to more actively assume duties, the first of which was an official visit to Ascalzar with her father the King. She also accompanied her father during his 2012 Belisarian trip to Latium, Garima, Lihnidos, and West Merovia. Her first solo international visit came in late 2010 when she traveled to Langael, a predominantly Catholic region of Low Ghant. It is believed this is when Melisende first met Godfrey Galan. Melisende met with Lord Donal of Langael, and reportedly had elected to remain in Langael for two extra days before returning to Sydalon. Their engagement was announced in November 2010, marrying in summer 2012.

In early 2011, Chancellor-General Recared Athanagild of the Order of the Holy Lance passed away creating the need for Melisende to appoint a replacement. Days after Athanagild's funeral, Melisende publicly announced that she desired to directly hold the office herself concurrently with Grand Master. Melisende's declaration sparked a debate in the Petran General Courts as to whether she should serve as Chancellor-General without any prior military service or career. Melisende eventually appointed Adeodatus du Caeseti to the position.

Early reign

In spring 2013, King Desiderius I passed away from pancreatic cancer and Melisende ascended to the throne.

Melisende was anointed on 1 July 2013 in a ceremony hosted at Cathedral of the Holy Sepulchre, in the city of Sydalon. The event was attended by prominent members of the Parliament, as well as representatives from many nations and monarchies from around the world.

First days

Melisende's first act as monarch was to replace The Lord of Ibelina as Chancellor. Ibelina was removed from office by the Royal prerogative on 10 June, and was replaced with Theodoric VI, Marquis of Vada. Melisende ordered government to lift the ban on restricting senators on the Senate from joining political parties.

New Years' Revolt

Main article: 2016 New Year's Revolt

Between late-October and early-November 2014, Chancellor-General Adeodatus du Caeseti of the Holy Lance faced numerous allegation of sexual misconduct and impropriety. These allegations continued to arise throughout the week while Caeseti was overseas during a foreign visit to Catholic nations. On November 1, Caeseti was recalled to Ostracine by Richard of Sydalon, Duke of Surra, Regent of Petra, though Caeseti had refused to leave the Sydalene embassy in Castellum. The next day, Caeseti attempted to flee the Sydalene embassy and make his way to a private jet to reach Fabria, but was apprehended by Latin Frumentarii for questioning in relation to allegations from a Latin citizens of rape.

Days later, Caeseti was returned to Sydalon by Latin officials and was indicted on 11 criminal counts, including 7 for sexual misconduct by a Royal grand jury assembled by Melisende. The same day, Melisende exercised her royal prerogative to initiate the process to expedite du Caeseti's removal while his criminal case was pending.

Melisende visiting the village of Sarepta, October 2017.

The pending criminal charges were not without controversy, as Melisende's decision to expedite du Caeseti's removal was met with numerous protesters claiming the allegations were "fake news and attacks against the faith". The protests resulted in 17 arrests for violation of lese majeste laws. Caeseti's supporters within the Order continued to denounce Melisdene's "unlawful removal" of Caeseti, and called it an affront to God "unfit from the protector of Christendom's Holy Land." Melisdende censured the nearly 20 members of the Order's administrative upper echelon. As of November 15, the Sydalene Royal Army's 3rd Legion in Petra was mobilized, as was an army garrisoned near Ostracine.

On November 18, the Royal household announced that it had narrowed down the list of possible replacements down to three. The following week, Prince-Regent The Duke of Surra appointed Eradi Kanmil; however, it resulted in the retirement of at least 10 of the 20 highest ranking officers within the order.

Constitutional reforms

Main article: National Assembly

Scandals

Mutulese sanctions

As the revolutionary threat subsided, Melisende made overtures to government during the Mifsud era has been described as tumultuous at best as numerous scandals eventually toppled the attempt at parliamentary democracy in Sydalon. On 27 August 2018, Melisende approved an easing of sanctions on Mutul, which were later revealed to be proposed by then Minister of Finance and Economy Annibale Milki. The news of the proposed eased sanctions prompted outcry from various nations, such as Belfras, Fakolana, and Yisrael, but were praised by Sante Reze. After pressures from allied nations, and the Parliament, Melisende issued a royal decree halting the proposed ease, and sacked Minister Milki.

Annulment controversy

Mifsud government collapse

On October 23, government emails from the Council of Ministers were leaked by Ghant-based Honeydrippers. The Honeydippers scandal implicated People's Party Leader and Minister of the Interior Pelae Arvad, Minister of Foreign Affairs Desiderius de Villepena, and Minister of Agriculture Michael Galea. The leaked emails cover topics ranging from lobbying firms offering to meet with members of the Council of Ministers to The Queen to The Prince of Petra. In the emails, government ministers were revealed to accept bribes, and violate lese majeste laws for accusing Melisende of having an affair during her marriage to Godfrey Galan. The scandal prompted the resignation of the government ministers involved, and a dissolution of the National Assembly with new elections by Queen Melisende.

A second election took place on November 24, though unlike the summer 2018 election, Melisende did not appoint any individual that currently served in the National Assembly to serve on the Council of Ministers as promised

Personal life

Marriage to Godfrey Galan

On 13 June 2012, Melisende married Godfrey Galan, the youngest son of Ghantish nobleman Donal, Lord of Langael, at a ceremony in the city of Sydalon at the Cathedral of the Holy Sepulchre and was performed by the Pope. Melisende was first betrothed to Godfrey in December 2010. The ceremony was attended by numerous high profile guests including monarchs or representatives from Latium, Ghant, Lyncanestria, and many others. Melisende and Godfrey were bestowed Castela du Normane. In 2016, Castra Rubea in Sydalon became Melisende's primary residence. She gave birth to their only child, Hugh, Prince of Petra, in 2012.

Melisende's marriage to Godfrey ended on 23 April 2013, after Pope Ignatius I granted an annulment after Godfrey was outed as a homosexual.

Marriage to Michael of Dakmoor

After her annulment, Melisende courted a number of suitors from 2013 to 2014, including XXXX, Prince Edgar of Gaemar, and Gabriel, Hereditary Prince of Montgisard. However, the Royal Household announced Melisende's engagement to Prince Michael of Dakmoor in January 2014, with whom she was alleged to be involved in an affair with as early as 2010.

She and Michael were married on 3 June 2014, at Cathedral of the Holy Sepulchre in the city of Sydalon. The service was performed by the Pope, with invitees from throughout the world. She gave birth to their first child, Melisende in August 2014. A third child, Elisabetta, was born in 2016. In February 2018, she gave birth to twins: Michael and Desiderius. Her sixth child, Belandra, was born in 2019. Her seventh child, Esmeralda, was born on 19 November 2020. Less than a year later, on 4 November 2021, Melisende gave birth to her eighth child, Jordan. Melisende's ninth child, Izara, was born on 26 January 2023. She is currently pregnant with her tenth child, who is due in summer 2024.

Styles, honors, and arms

Styles

  • 5 August 1993 – 3 March 2011: Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Diban
  • 3 March 2011 – 22 May 2013: Her Royal Highness The Princess of Petra
  • 22 May 2013 – present: Her Royal Majesty The Queen

Foreign decorations

  •  Ascalzar: Dame Grand Cross of the Order of Hieronymus I MEX Order of the Aztec Eagle 5Class BAR.png November 2014
  •  Latium: Knight of the Order of the Ram Red ribbon bar - general use.svg 2 August 2014
  •  Lyncanestria: Officer of the Order of the Imperial Lion <imgur w="50">5qFKBzS.png</imgur> March 2017

Issue

Name Date of birth Date of death Spouses
By Godfrey Galan (b. 1990):
Hugh, Prince of Petra (2012-05-10) 10 May 2012 (age 12)
By Prince Michael of Dakmoor (b. 1991):
Princess Melisende of Sydalon (2014-08-01) 1 August 2014 (age 10)
Princess Elisabetta of Sydalon (2016-03-18) 18 March 2016 (age 8)
Prince Michael of Sydalon (2017-09-12) 12 September 2017 (age 7)
Prince Desiderius of Sydalon (2017-09-12) 12 September 2017 (age 7)
Princess Belandra of Sydalon (2019-02-28) 28 February 2019 (age 5)
Princess Esmerelda of Sydalon (2020-11-19) 19 November 2020 (age 4)
Prince Jordan of Sydalon (2021-11-04) 4 November 2021 (age 3)
Princess Izara of Sydalon (2023-01-26) 26 January 2023 (age 21 months)
Prince Benjamin of Sydalon (2024-07-06) 6 July 2024 (age 4 months)

Ancestry

See also

Melisende III of Sydalon
Cadet branch of the House of Altvilla
Born: 5 August 1990
Regnal titles
Preceded by
Desiderius I
as King 		Queen of Sydalon
2013–present 		Incumbent
Heir apparent:
Hugh, Prince of Petra
Sydalene royalty
Preceded by
The Prince Desiderius
later became King Desiderius I 		Princess of Petra
2011–2013 		Succeeded by
The Prince Hugh
Peerage of Petra
Preceded by
The Prince Desiderius
later became King Desiderius I 		Duchess of Diban
1993–2011 		Succeeded by
The Prince Hugh
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