Post by Eloell on Aug 10, 2022 15:02:19 GMT -5
ARYNN FREY'S MARRIAGE & FAMILY
MARRIAGE
There is little to no pressure to marry at a young age in Arynn Frey. The average citizen weds at 40-60, and when they marry they do it by choice and are given multiple opportunities to recant. Marriage is a sacred union of souls in Arynn Frey, and therefore divorce isn't something that is acknowledged or even possible for them. In fact, the only kind of marriage that is recognized in Arynn Frey is that which is sealed with an enchantment referred to as The Union Enchantment. The Union Enchantment literally connects the souls of the wedded couple, and there is no disconnecting it. There is a culture of physical fidelity and faithfulness within marriage in Arynn Frey. Arynn Frey recognizes marriage between any two persons, regardless of sex. As for sexuality, the culture is accepting of those who choose to live together instead of or before marriage. Children born outside of a marriage are just as valid as those within. The only real reason to marry is to establish something greater than themselves; those who marry are celebrated for the maturity and longevity of the decision. The result the Union Enchantment has on combined souls is the ability to sense the partner's emotions and whereabouts at all times. The further apart they are in proximity, the weaker the ability to sense the emotions, but they always possess an inner compass as to the partner's whereabouts. When a partner is killed the sense is cut off abruptly, usually leaving the surviving partner with an inexplicable sense of loss (beyond the usual) that lasts the entirety of their lives. They may marry again, but it will not restore that piece of their soul they have lost.
Surnames are not taken in marriage. Children may claim a parent's surname, hyphenate them, or create a new one for themselves.
WEDDING TRADITIONS
Marriage is a sacred union between any two individuals, regardless of sex, and Arynnites are never forced to marry. Many do not marry until much later in life, and only when they are absolutely sure of their decision. As such, a wedding is a quiet, intimate affair between the couple, the enchanter who will do the Union Enchantment, and perhaps parents and siblings. There is no cheering and applause but a deep respect and reverence for the occasion. The ceremony consists only of the couple standing together while the enchanter works, drawing out a piece of soul from each and placing that piece into the other person, literally exchanging a part of their souls. This magical connection endures for the remainder of their lives and serves as a kind of homing beacon to the spouse.Divorce is not possible. The soul piece exchange is irreversible. A couple may choose to no longer share their lives, but they will always be magically bonded.
FAMILY
Family is a strange and shifting concept within Arynn Frey. There is no great value or pride put into who you were born to or who you are related to, unless you are royalty or (formerly) an aristocrat. Some families are close knit, while some are estranged; there is no glory or pity in either situation, and the way things are are simply accepted as the way things are. As for children, they are a necessary means to an end--continuing the legacy of Arynn Frey. The actual act of raising them and tending to their every need, both physically and emotionally, is often a tiresome task for Arynnite parents. They would rather sink themselves in academic pursuits than change diapers and deal with childishness. Some have found an appreciation of it, knowing they are bringing up the next generation, but some find ways to avoid having to care for their young.