Lords:What is a Peer?

What is a Peer?

Peerage is defined as “a system of titles of nobility in the Star Kingdom of Manticore, the Imperial Andermani Empire, the Protectorate of Grayson, and the Senatorial titles of the Republic of Haven.” The term is used both collectively to refer to the entire body of titles, and individually to refer to a specific title. Peerage dignities may be recommended by both Houses of Parliament (Commons and Lords) and approved by the House of Lords through its Peerage Courts.

What does it mean to be “a Peer” in TRMN? It has been said Peers are recognized, not made. Members elevated as Peers have shown a higher level of leadership and a commitment to the benefit of the membership and organization, while demonstrating service above and beyond what their rank and position requires.

At one time, getting a peerage was considered another award and nothing more. Many Peers were elevated before there were actual duties and responsibilities. That all changed in 2016 with the creation of the Houses of Parliament Manual (RMN 0-2) that created the House of Lords (and the House of Commons). Both Houses were given certain rights and obligations. Times have changed and becoming a peer is now an acknowledgment of one’s overall achievements in TRMN and a sign of one’s willingness to continue those activities in support of the organization. Being a peer comes with duties and responsibilities. It is an honor and a responsibility, but it is not an award.

The Peerage titles, in order of precedence from highest to lowest, are:

• Grand Duke/Grand Duchess (This is primarily reserved for members of the Royal Family, but exceptions can be made for exceptional service to the organization)
• Duke/Duchess
• Steadholder (Grayson title of roughly equivalent rank to Duke/Duchess)
• Senator (Republic of Haven title of roughly equivalent rank to Duke/Duchess)
• Earl/Countess
• Baron/Baroness
• Knight/Dame (Only those members who are invested into The Most Noble Order of the Star Kingdom have an inheritable title)

Life Peerage vs. Hereditary Peerage

Hereditary Peerages are granted lands within the Star Kingdom and a seat in the House of Lords. A Hereditary Peer will work through a space on the Wall of Peerage in the TRMN Headquarters. As their Peerage Title increases, they will be given a space on the Wall of Peerage commensurate with the title to place their Coat of Arms, which they will be given certain rights to design themselves but must be approved by the College of Arms. Life Peers do not come with land, nor have a seat in the House of Lords. Knights/Dames do not have a Coat of Arms but are granted a keep.