Symbols and Traditions
Æfiran symbols, emblems and traditions serve to represent and unite the Kingdom and the Æfiran people. They include visual symbols, such as the national flag and the royal arms, as well as national holidays, honorary titles and decorations.
Flags
The Æfiran national flag (left) symbolizes the nation and may be flown by all Æfiran citizens. There are other flags and ensigns for use in particular circumstances or by particular officials.
The national coat of arms (right), featuring the same design as the flag, may be used by any Æfiran citizen to represent his or her nationality. Æfira’s national colors, derived from the flag and arms, are white and blue.
Royal Symbols
The royal coat of arms (left) represents the authority of the Sovereign and is used as a symbol of the governing power in Æfira. The royal arms feature a phoenix rising from flames, supported by two lions, surrounded by the circlet of the Order of the Phoenix and ensigned with the royal crown, and the motto “Duty and Honor”. The arms are used only by the King and by courts, public officers and government departments operating in his name; they may not be displayed by private citizens.
The stylized image of the crown alone (right) frequently appears as a mark of royal authority. The royal cypher – a crowned monogram MR for Maximilian Rex (King Maximilian) – is also used.
Other National Emblems
The trillium (left) has been adopted as an unofficial floral emblem of Æfira, and a crowned, stylized trillium flower is used as a royal badge (right).
There is no Æfiran national anthem. The mottos “Duty and Honor” (from the royal arms) and Patria Nostra Vocet (“Our Country Calls”, from the Order of the Phoenix) may be regarded as national symbols; the expression “Long live the King” is also used for patriotic purposes.
Holidays
Public holidays celebrate key Æfiran values and commemorate major historical events. The chief national holiday is Æfira Day, the anniversary of the country’s founding on 6 June 2007.
Honors and Decorations
Titles of nobility conferred by the Sovereign entitle their holders to seats in the House of Lords as well as high distinction in Æfiran society.
A system of Æfiran orders and decorations serves to recognize citizens’ exemplary achievements, service or merit. Coats of arms are also granted to Æfirans as a personal honor from the King.