Marriage

In all Terra there is only one country that only acknowledges heterosexual, same-race unions as legal. Everywhere else, people are relatively open-minded.

There are a variety of different traditions surrounding engagements and marriages. Sometimes there are rings exchanged. Sometimes the man cloaks the woman. Sometimes there are other special gifts exchanged.

As for the ceremonies, the couple usually agrees upon the style in advance. Many still honor the ancient tradition of hand-fasting. Others honor the tradition of cloaking. Still others, honor the exchanging of wedding bands. Some blend several traditions together.

Dress styles and colors vary depending upon the country, and the bride. The attire and coloring of the groom’s clothing varies as well. This also changes with the orientation of the parties participating in the ceremony.

No matter the attire, the ceremony itself is almost always performed by a priest, or priestess, of Mekail–goddess of love. Occasionally, though, the parties may choose to have a priest of their deity perform the ceremony instead.

Feasting often follows the wedding ceremony. The duration of the feast depends on the race, wealth, family size, and nationality of the parties involved. Sometimes, the couple give gifts to their guests. Other times, guest give the couple wedding gifts.

It is frowned upon to hold “shotgun weddings” but not completely unheard of. All cultures believe marriage is sacred and should only be entered into willingly and with love in one’s heart.