Post by Eloell on Jul 18, 2022 14:34:02 GMT -5
MARRIAGE & FAMILY IN LORENDALE
MARRIAGE
In marriage, the surname of the higher ranking spouse is taken, with the exceptions of those who marry princes/princesses; their spouses become dukes/duchesses. Rank does not change, though marrying a higher rank is still desirable due to the social status and wealth that is associated with the higher ranking partner. Families may also lose rank or be demoted because of their deeds. The ruling monarch or his/her family are the only individuals with the power to change the rank of individuals or families. Siblings do not usually marry, but cousins and any family relations beyond do marry at times to preserve name and blood. Arranged marriage is common and actually a smiled upon practice within noble circles. Divorce is uncommon, as most would rather continue in a loveless marriage than face the shame of abandoning a family, but it is legal. Any ranks that changed because of the marriage are returned to their previous station, and the taken surname is dropped as well. Most considered those who have had a divorce as less desirable company. Children take the same rank as their parents.
MARRYING A RAINECOURT
The Rainecourt name is guarded and not easily given. In fact, only the monarch, his/her monarch-born siblings, and children (aka the royal family) hold the last name of Rainecourt. Those who marry the monarch (king/queen) also take the name "Rainecourt", but those who marry a prince/princess take a hyphenated name: Rainecourt-Whatever their last name already was (Ex. Eleanor Rainecourt (princess) married Lorenzo Sheen, he became Lorenzo Rainecourt-Sheen). The children of the prince/princess and their spouse maintain the hyphenated surname (ex. daughter, Imelda Rainecourt-Sheen). This acknowledges that they are closely bound to the throne, but that they are not necessarily directly in line for it. The spouse of children of princes/princesses maintains only the second part of the hyphenated name, and their children, too (ex. say Imelda Rainecourt-Sheen marries Bruce Figgings; Bruce becomes Bruce Sheen. Children from their union become Sheens). This name-taking course weeds out distant folk from the throne having Rainecourt in their names, and preserves the exclusivity of the name.WEDDING TRADITIONS
Lorendale's weddings look much like modern weddings. There is a formal ceremony followed by a reception. Food and dancing is a must, or one might as well not have a wedding. It is possible for a man and woman to be married without any wedding, but it would be shameful for a noble to even consider this route. Because there is no established religion there is consequently no licensed officiant, and instead the ceremonial exchange is lead by someone respected, often an older family member (male or female). At least two witnesses are necessary, even for commoners who have no celebration, and it is the spread word of these witnesses along with the filing of a signed document that makes a marriage legal. For the individual conducting the ceremony, a white silk ribbon is tied around the clasped hands of those to be wed. Pleasantries are exchanged, typically verbose and melodramatic, and then the couple seals the exchange with: "I am his(hers) and he(she) is mine. From this day, until the end of my days." While there may be slight variations to these exact words, the gist must be communicated. The couple then traditionally seals the arrangement with a kiss.
FAMILY
In Lorendale your family is everything. They can propel you towards success or hinder you from ever rising above your post. Those who seek change need first reform their families. Loyalty is expected, and honor is of utmost importance.CHILDREN
Children are both blessings and curses in Lorendale. They are necessary to continue one's lineage, but the day in and day out of actually caring for a child can be tedious to the parents, especially the higher up on the chain of nobility that they fall. Noble children are largely raised by caretakers, most infants weaned by nursemaids. There is not a preferred sex, as either son or daughter can perpetuate the family name.