De Chalons family

The De Chalons family is one of Orlais' most powerful noble families.

History
The De Chalons family is one of the most prominent noble families of Orlais, especially since the marriage of Duke Theodore de Chalons with Princess Melisande Valmont, the only daughter of Emperor Judicael I, sometime in the Blessed Age. They had two children, Gaspard and Florianne, born in 8:74 and 8:87 Blessed respectively. Following the Hundred Days Cough of 8:77 which took the lives of Crown Prince Etienne III, Prince Leopold and Princess Evangeline, Grand Duke Gaspard became the eldest surviving grandchild of Judicael I and as such was raised to believe he would become Emperor. However, when Emperor Florian died in 9:19 Dragon without naming his successor, Celene outmaneuvered him and was named Empress by the Council of Heralds. Gaspard partly blames his lack of the Valmont name as a reason for Celene's victory over him.

After Celene's ascension to the throne, Gaspard remained an influential figure in Orlais. One of the highest ranking nobles to ever become a chevalier, he also won the admiration and respect of his soldiers throughout his distinguished military career. Florianne kept her suite in the palace and gained a respected but unsubstantial place in Celene's cabinet of advisors. She developed a reputation as the least important member of the royal family.

Known members

 * Duke Theodore de Chalons, husband to Princess Melisande Valmont. It is said that he was not an affectionate man, and cared only for rich food, strong drink, and gambling on horse races.
 * Duke Germain de Chalons, member of the Council of Heralds
 * Grand Duke Gaspard de Chalons, renowned chevalier and rival to Empress Celene I's throne
 * Grand Duchess Florianne de Chalons, younger sister of Gaspard

Note

 * Codex entry: Grand Duke Gaspard de Chalons refers to a Duke Gratien who is uncle to Gaspard. It's not clear what his position is in the family.