Unity & Reproduction

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Across Aethyr, dragons are universally monogamous. Only in the shadowed fringes of society, among criminals and outlaws, do multiple partners exist. These individuals often reject the pursuit of Clan titles and the traditional societal order, embracing instead a life governed by anarchy and freedom.

This norm, however, applies solely to dragons. Other races in Aethyr follow their own customs regarding partnerships, and these are generally respected when they do not disrupt social harmony.

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Marriage takes many forms, motivated by reasons such as:

• Love

• Politics

• Convenience

• And more

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Unity is the sacred recognition of this partnership, symbolizing a deep spiritual bond between two dragons. While Divergence, the formal ending of a union, is legally permitted, it is frowned upon in high society and regarded with sorrow among commoners.

The emblem of this union or betrothal is typically a band or ring, worn either on a horn or a tail.

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Despite laws prohibiting it, forced marriages remain an issue within high society. Pressure from Clans, Families, and even commoners striving for social advancement can lead to such unions. These arrangements are almost always driven by considerations of status or wealth, rarely by scale colors or personal traits, which are deemed shallow reasons for binding two lives.

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It is a grave crime to harm or abandon dragon eggs. Anyone caught destroying eggs faces execution, regardless of rank or privilege. At times, abandoned eggs may be entrusted to the Temples, where they are cared for by devoted caretakers until adopted or raised within the Temple’s embrace.

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In the days of Clan prominence, orphans were far more common, but their numbers have since declined.

Unwanted offspring pose a challenge for many. Wealthy Clans can afford to care for them, though often only minimally. Families typically keep such offspring until they reach maturity, after which they are enrolled in the military, contributing their strength to the realm.

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The Ceremony of Unity

The Unity Rite, a sacred ceremony, binds two dragons together before the watchful eyes of the Celestials and the Ancestors.

Traditionally, the Rite is held at Dawn for dragons aligned with Aether, and at Dusk for those of Nether affinity. Dragons of Neutral elements often select a time that lies between these two, honoring balance and harmony.

The ceremony is hosted by the family that gains a new member, as marriage is customarily seen as one dragon joining the other’s household. While this tradition may have loosened among common folk, it remains rigorously upheld in both middle and high society.

Commoner families typically hold the Rite within their own home. If space does not allow, they may rent a larger venue or host the ceremony in a natural setting, though public spaces frequented by others are considered inappropriate.

Clans, by contrast, conduct their Unity Rites within the grand halls of their main Estate or in a designated Celestial Temple.

Both families of the betrothed must be present.

Parents, provided they are living and not estranged, are essential attendees, and siblings or other close relatives are usually in attendance as well. In Clan rites, extended kin and Clan Elders are expected to participate, and such gatherings often become significant social events.

Invitations may be extended to friends of the couple and family allies, though these guests must first be approved by the betrothed's parents and family elders. Clan ceremonies frequently operate under a semi-open policy, permitting notable dragons or members of other Clans to arrive unannounced, creating opportunities for alliance-building and diplomacy. However, strict guardians ensure the exclusion of any unwelcome or uninvited visitors.

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The Unity Rite is officiated by a Votary, a Revered Mother or Father of the Celestial Temple, accompanied by attending brothers and sisters who assist in the rites.

When the ceremony takes place within a Celestial Temple, upon arrival, families will approach the grand statue of the Celestials, an ancestral relic made of white and black marble with gold veins, believed to create a direct link to the Celestials themselves, and bow to them. There, they present their offerings, tributes made in honor of both the Celestials and Ancestors. In the present day, these offerings are usually given in coin, however, families of certain crafts may still present gifts of food, artisanal goods, or raw materials as was done in ancient times. Meager offerings are seen as a grave insult, casting doubt on the sincerity and strength of the union. While guests are welcome to offer tribute as well, far less is expected of them.

As each offering is made, the giver may briefly touch the Celestial Statues offering a private prayer for the couple’s union, most often a wish for harmony, health, and fertility.

Once the offerings are gathered and respectfully taken to the Temple by the votary’s assistants, the Ceremonial Oath begins.

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The Oath of Unity

Once the offerings have been given and the Celestials have been honored, the ceremony proceeds to its most sacred stage: the Oath of Union.

At the sound of a ceremonial bell (Aether) or gong (Nether), the votary calls the betrothed forward to stand before the Celestial Statues, representations of the Celestial Gods who preside over fate, harmony, and legacy.

This moment marks the first time the couple sees each other that day, a tradition believed to preserve the magic and sanctity of their final joining.

Before the statues, the couple may place their paw upon the marbled extended paws of the Celestials' statues, or rest their forehead against the stone to offer a silent prayer: a private communion of intent, hope, and devotion whispered to both the Ancestors and Celestials.

The votary then recites a chosen series of sacred rites, selected by the couple beforehand.

These vary based on cultural values, elemental significance, or family customs.

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The Rite of Harmony

For couples from rival families or Clans

This rite is chosen when two dragons unite from families or Clans that were once divided or at odds. The Rite of Harmony represents healing, cooperation, and the forging of peace through love. It is held in neutral territory, often in a grove, atop a cliff where winds from both regions meet, or at a Celestial Temple known for hosting rites of reconciliation.

The couple arrives from opposite ends of the venue, symbolizing their separate pasts. They meet at the central altar where they both place an offering representing their heritage.

The Votary blesses these offerings, then binds them together with a silver-and-indigo ribbon representing unity without loss of identity.

A Song of Accord is sung by two voices, traditionally from each family or Clan, blending melodies once thought dissonant.​

 

“I come to you not to conquer, nor to yield,

but to stand beside you, whole and willing,

so that peace may grow where conflict once stood.”

 

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The Rite of Bonds and Legacy

For unions meant to bind territories or bloodlines

This rite is most commonly seen among nobility and ruling Clans, where marriages serve a dual role of alliance and legacy. The Rite of Flame and Root symbolizes strength through union, the merging of power and tradition, and the continuation of proud lines.

During the ceremony, the Votary presents a young sapling between the couple, symbolizing their shared growth and future together. This sapling will later be planted in the estate grounds or the family necropolis, a living testament to their union.

A carefully inscribed scroll detailing the bloodlines of both families is presented and sealed with wax bearing the marks of both parties, formalizing their joined heritage.

The votary then binds them together with a deep emerald and gold ribbon, symbolizing enduring strength and the merging of two proud lineages.

Elders from both families speak ancestral blessings aloud, affirming and honoring the new bond.​

 

“May your roots entwine, and your strength unite.
Together you stand: steadfast, enduring, and whole.”

 

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The Rite of Windsong

For those prioritizing freedom, creativity, or legacy through children

The Rite of Windsong is lighthearted yet sacred, favored by artists, travelers, and dragons who value independence, innovation, and emotional expression. It honors the breath of life, the joy of creation, and the dance of two spirits in harmonym not possession.

The couple composes or selects a song, poem, or dance to present during the Rite, celebrating their shared joy or vision for the future.

Their tails are not bound by a ribbon, but by woven strands of sky-dyed silk, meant to unravel naturally during the celebration that follows.

Offerings include feathers, shells, wind-chimes, or scrolls: symbols of movement, inspiration, and legacy.

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“I will not hold your wings, but fly beside them.
I will not shape your path, but walk in wonder with you.
Let our breath create echoes that will outlast us.”

 

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The Rite of Undying Vow

For unions grounded in unwavering love, reverence, and profound soul-connection

The Rite of Undying Vow is a rare and deeply sacred unity ceremony, chosen only by those whose bond transcends obligation, politics, or legacy. It is invoked when two dragons come together in a connection so profound, it is said to reflect the original bond of the Celestials themselves: the first souls who loved without reason, without end. This rite is not meant for convenience or alliance, but for the rarest kind of love: one born of reverence, soul-recognition, and mutual surrender.

The Rite is always held in open air, whether beneath stars or sky. The heavens must be witness: nothing may separate the couple from the world or each other.

The couple arrives cloaked, symbolizing the lives they once lived apart. At the start of the ceremony, they each remove the other’s cloak, a gesture of chosen exposure and mutual acceptance.

As they stand before the Votary, a woven binding sash is brought forth. This sash is handmade in advance by the couple themselves or their closest family members or mentors.

The votary then binds them together with a midnight blue and silver ribbon, symbolizing eternal commitment and unwavering loyalty beyond time.

The silence of the crowd is upheld throughout the rite, broken only by the speaking of the vows. Music or song may follow, but only after the final blessing is complete.​

 

“With no chain but choice
with no shield but trust
I come to you
not to possess,
but to stand beside.

In joy, I will lift you.
In sorrow, I will carry you.
In doubt, I will still choose you.

I vow myself to the quiet moments,
The unspoken gestures,
the thousand ordinary days
that make a life extraordinary.

I bind myself not with force,

but with truth,
with will,
and with love.”

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The exchange of Unity Bands

Unity Bands are carefully crafted ahead of the Rite and kept safe until the moment they are exchanged. Though prepared for the ceremony, they are traditionally worn only after the union has been consummated, often beginning the following dawn.

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Attire

Guests attending the ceremony wear formal attire, favoring colors that avoid mostly white to respect the sanctity of the ceremony.

The united wear specific ceremonial garments depending on their elemental alignment: Aether dragons don pristine white, while Nether dragons wears deep black, respecting the Celestials themselves. Subtle accents such as jewelry or leather pieces may be in soft, muted tones that complement the primary colors.

All fabric and armor worn during the ceremony must be solid in color, no gradients, patterns, or personal markings are allowed. Clan insignias and emblems are strictly forbidden during the ceremony, though sacred sigils honoring the Celestials and Ancestors are encouraged.

While formal armor is permitted, it should be limited to a few select pieces for ceremony only, no full battle armor. Weapons are strictly prohibited, and head coverings must be removed to maintain openness and respect during the ceremony.

The Revered Mother/Father acting as the votary will wear light or dark grey depending on their elemental alignment. They often wear a necklace with an amber crystal, signifying their connection to the Celestials and Ancestors.

 

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Unity Bands & Rings

Ceremonial pieces fitted on a dragon’s head horns or at the tip of their tail, or their finger or wrist symbolizing their official and spiritual union, known as Unity, with another dragon. The placement of choice is entirely up to the individual.​

All unity bands and rings share one essential feature: the Unity Crest, the emblem that signifies their status. Without this crest, a ring is not recognized as a Unity band or ring.

​Unity bands can range from modest and inexpensive to highly ornate.

The average band is crafted from a coomon metal, etched with the Uniting Crest and often decorated with elemental motifs depending on the element of the other partner.

Despite variations in material or design, the presence of the crest is mandatory.

​Unity rings or bands have two particularly sought-after, valued and renowed features:

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Starhaven Crystal

This rare and costly crystal reacts to a dragon’s elemental or magical energy, absorbing and then radiating it back. Once infused, the crystal glows with the unique hue and pulse of the dragon’s element.

It’s a highly sought-after material in shrines and keepsakes, but when used in rings, it is reserved exclusively for Unity bands. 

​Each Unified dragon wears a band containing the magic of their partner.

The Starhaven Crystal in a band can retain this magical essence for up to a century, and even longer in larger, uncut forms. While the crystal can hold the power of multiple dragons without blending their energies, Unity bands contain only the magic of one individual: either elemental or, more rarely, non-elemental.

​The amount of Starhaven Crystal embedded in the band directly affects its cost.

In noble Clans and among the elite, it is common, almost expected, for Unity bands to be made entirely of rare metals and to feature full-length Starhaven Crystal.

In contrast, dragons of lower social standing or labor-intensive roles rarely have access to such luxurious materials.

​Unity bands are generally worn at all times, as tradition and expectation dictate.

However, dragons serving in the military or as guards may leave their rings in secure places to avoid damage, theft, or loss.

Due to the structure of many horns and tails, Unity bands are often designed as two connected pieces that can be opened and closed, allowing them to be positioned properly. Some dragons choose to have the band permanently closed once fitted. The shape of each band is custom-crafted to suit the unique contours of the dragon's horn or tail.

​A dragon must possess at least Novice or Harnessed-level mastery of their element or magic in order to safely infuse the crystal. Insufficient control risks damaging or destroying it.

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Starhaven Metal

Starhaven Metal is a refined version of Star Metal, and it is highly sought-after material, prized for its durability, smooth luster, and, most notably, its remarkable color-changing properties.

When exposed to draconic magic in its molten state, the metal shifts color, allowing smiths to produce virtually any hue. This versatility makes Starhaven Metal a favored choice for ceremonial armor, fine jewelry, Unity bands, and other significant items.

​While a single piece of Starhaven Metal typically displays a dominant base color, its interaction with light can reveal a secondary tone. This second color may appear as luminous highlights, deeper reflections, or even vary based on viewing angle. As a result, Starhaven items often exhibit a striking, dual-colored appearance.

For more complex designs, two separately treated pieces can be expertly fused to create seamless gradients, an intricate and costly process requiring specialized craftsmanship.

​Though considered expensive, Starhaven Metal is accessible to the upper echelons of society and is a symbol of prestige.

It naturally has a glittering finish, with optional etched or inlaid patterns depending on taste.

Due to its rarity and value, most smiths refuse to dilute it with alloys, as doing so diminishes both its strength and aesthetic integrity.

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LGBT

Dragons, as a whole, tend to be open-minded and adaptable toward others of their kind, especially those who share their alignment. However, attitudes vary between kingdoms. In certain regions, there remains a strong belief that bloodlines must be preserved through named heirs of direct descent, never adopted or otherwise. This mindset often reinforces rigid views on lineage and inheritance.

Other races may hold different perspectives on these matters, with some being more flexible in their traditions and views on succession.

As of current knowledge, no known spells exist that allow for the alteration of gender.

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Orphanages

In towns and cities without Temples, orphanages serve as shelters for dragon eggs left behind and for young dragons who have been abandoned or left without guardians. These institutions are rarely operated by any formal government; instead, they are usually run by families or individuals who take it upon themselves to provide refuge for the unwanted, the forgotten, or the orphaned. While orphanages are still expected to follow the laws of their Kingdom or Heartlands, not all operate fairly or within those legal bounds. Nevertheless, they are often considered a better alternative to life on the streets.

Caretakers within these orphanages typically provide only the most basic education, primarily teaching elemental control. Beyond that, resources are limited. At the age of 15, many children are expected, or forced, to begin working in order to contribute to their keep. By the time they reach 20, most are conscripted into the army, where they are given the opportunity to earn a living, gain structure, and forge a path of their own.

For those who are never taken into an orphanage, or who flee from one, the future is often far harsher. Many of these young dragons fall into lives of crime, driven by desperation and the lack of guidance or support.