How is marriage in YN?

[Soyouso]

1. What is the age limit for marriage?
Twenty.
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens?
No, not unless the spouse dies. This is why they are so picky. If you break their heart they will kill you.
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens?
Yes, it never had any discrimination.
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon?
Yes but it's considered shameful. It's considered a spiritual thing that you only do for someone you really care about.
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage?
It is considered sacred. They do not like people who commit adultery.
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose
With a necklace, wristband, or ring. Sometimes soldiers will propose with their favorite weapon. Both men and women can propose. Normally to signal they are about to they will take them out dancing a week before.
7. Is parental approval needed?
No, but they do have a lot of pride over their families. Arranged marriages are illegal.
8. Who takes the last name?
They decide whether or not to do so.
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both?
Can be either.
10. Are wedding expensive?
Only for upper class people, but it is not required.
11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day?
This can vary. Sometimes they will wear flower crowns, police and soldiers usually wear their uniform, and they will sometimes weae tribal warrior clothing.
12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)?
Usually in parks or churches of the national religion.
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)?
Alone in the forest.
14. What sort of music is usually played?
Generally baroque or classical, but they sometimes will play other things.
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss?
*Sophia from the Golden Girl's voice* Picture this. If private, the couple will probably cuddle for extended periods of time in the forest and eventually it's become a very not-child-friendly makeout session. Party weddings are very similar to western nations, but usually involve a dance with all of the attenders. Eventually a priest, a member of one of their families, or a friend will say the vows, followed by both "I do"s, and a kiss.
16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not?
Yes. They are not separated by gender.
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties?
Usually a dance around a campfire, a feast which tends to involve steak, and sometimes sparring competitions. Wealthy Soyousians love clowns.
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people?
Very passionate. You have to get to know them first and spend probably a couple of months with them before they marry you but after that they will treasure you for eternity. They've been known to be pretty good in bed because of this. Never break a Soyousian's heart. It results in murder. The most you can do is watch porn, but if you cheat someone will get hurt.
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding?
All three. Mainly bonding.
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime?
Yes.
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have?
No, but the government doesn't give anyone welfare to help unless they can't work due to disabilities. You're not getting a welfare check because you decided to have 1000000 kids with no job.
22. Is your leader married?
Yes. They believe they're married to the gods of the natuonal religioj, which gives them a borderline god status.
23. What is a common pickup line?
Before going off to war, soldiers will often say "For [name]!".

Code: Select all

[b]1. What is the age limit for marriage?[/b]
[b]2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens?[/b]
[b]3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens?[/b]
[b]4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon?[/b]
[b]5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage?[/b]
[b]6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose?[/b]
[b]7. Is parental approval needed?[/b]
[b]8. Who takes the last name?[/b]
[b]9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both?[/b]
[b]10. Are wedding expensive?[/b]
[b]11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day?[/b]
[b]12.  Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)?[/b]
[b]13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)?[/b]
[b]14. What sort of music is usually played?[/b]
[b]15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss?[/b]
[b]16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not?[/b]
[b]17. If yes, what is done at afterparties?[/b]
[b]18. What kind of lovers are YN's people?[/b]
[b]19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding? [/b]
[b]20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime?[/b]
[b]21. Are there limits to how many children they can have[/b]?
[b]22. Is your leader married?[/b]
[b]23. What is a common pickup line?[/b]

[Hyggemata]

1. What is the age limit for marriage? Under the common law, it was 12 years; under the Aoryoaiwas (the administrative code of 702 that didn't see implementation), it was 20.
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens? Yes. Widows and widowers are treated like normal people.
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens? It is not currently legal, but it may be legalized soon since it does not appear to be controversial.
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon? Yes, it is legal.
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage? Marriage is a good thing, since it creates families.
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose? For people in high places, arranged marriages are quite commonplace, but otherwise most couples form in friendship and grow closer to the point of proposal.
7. Is parental approval needed? No.
8. Who takes the last name? Last names are retained by both spouses.
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both? Parties.
10. Are wedding expensive? Yes.
11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day? Most often, just a plain frock coat for the bridegroom and an elaborate dress for the bride.
12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)? Public squares.
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)? N/A
14. What sort of music is usually played? Most often, chorus vocals.
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss? Ceremony begins by calling to the assembled guests to witness the joinder of the couple. Kissing is not necessarily seen, but it is common. The couple then recites their marital vows: "By these words, and with everyone here as witness, I freely and happily accept you as my husband/wife, and what is mine, my property, my body, and my time, shall be yours, for ever and ever." Then the husband carries the wife home on his arms. This is supposed to represent some kind of marriage by abduction that was common millennia ago, but of course that is no longer legal.
16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not? No.
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties? N/A
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people? Aggressive.
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding? That is a private question.
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime? Rape is a criminal offence irrespective of spousal status.
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have? No.
22. Is your leader married? Yes.
23. What is a common pickup line? Can't think of one.

[Astrolinium]

1. What is the age limit for marriage? 17
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens? Yes. Widows and widowers are not a separate class under the law, and aside from an entitlement to inherit from the deceased partner and receive pension payouts, are not treated separately. Divorce is somewhat stigmatized, particularly by the Christians among Astrolinian society.
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens?Yes, and it is considered perfectly normal.
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon? Yes. It is frowned upon by some more conservative elements of society, but largely embraced by most of the populations.
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage? Marriage is largely seen as a wonderful thing allowing two people to celebrate their love and pool resources in order to raise children.
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose? Astrolinians will generally get down on one knee and present their partner with a simple ring. Anyone may propose.
7. Is parental approval needed? No, though it is often sought, as it considered better to have it.
8. Who takes the last name? In different-sex marriages, the woman generally does. In same-sex marriages, usually there is no change of last name.
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both? Large parties. These are huge affairs at which even the most distant relatives attend. For prominent marriages, it is not terribly uncommon that a holiday be called across the whole island.
10. Are wedding expensive? They can become very extravagant, but there are certainly ways of getting married cheaply.
11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day? It is customary for grooms to wear black dress shoes, black trousers, and a white tunic with a gold border, generally the border being patterned in a meaningful way. Members of the royal family will generally also wear a white cape with their tunic, held by a gold chain. It is customary for brides to wear a simple white dress bordered with the same pattern, also in gold, and a veil across their face of golden-dyed silk. Customs are somewhat different among Astrolinium's religious populations, and in line with general trends among those groups.
12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)? Often, party weddings are held in the Market Square, in the Ceremonial Meadow, or in the Delta Islets.
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)? Private weddings are usually held in one's place of worship or various hotels or beaches, and never one's home.
14. What sort of music is usually played? Wagner and Mendelssohn's Wedding Marches are commonplace, as are Canon in D by Pachelbel and selections from Prokofiev or Tchaikovsky's Romeo and Juliet.
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss? While religious ceremonies are different, a secular ceremony follows the following format: the bride and groom will say prepared vows to each other, usually including the formula, "Where you are Gaius, I am Gaia" or "Where you are Gaia, I am Gaius", a formula which has been popular since the mid-19th century. After the vows, the couple will exchange wedding rings, and then be directed to sign their marriage certificate by the administering official. Following this, there will be a procession to either the couple's home or the location of the reception -- the groom will generally carry the bride the length of the route, though in same-sex settings often both partners walk together, or one carries the other.
16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not? Receptions following the wedding are normal, and are not separated by gender.
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties? Generally, food and wine will be served, music will be played, and people will dance. It is not terribly uncommon for future couples to meet at a wedding reception, in fact, as it is considered lucky to meet an attractive person at a wedding.
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people? Astrolinians have many different styles of love, but are often stereotyped as very open-minded and passionate.
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding? Sex is a pleasurable activity and considered incredibly important to healthy married life.
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime? Yes.
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have? No.
22. Is your leader married? No.
23. What is a common pickup line? "Did I see you by the spring the other day? I could swear you must be a naiad."

[Nakad]

1. What is the age limit for marriage?
Any persons aged 16 and over, but under the age of 18 must receive permission from a court and both parents to legally marry. All persons 18 and over are free to marry.

2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens?
Divorce is a protected right under Nakadian law. Opinions can vary, most aren't concerned.

3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens?
Same-sex marriage is legal under Nakadian law. Some religious circles are still against it. Churches, mosques and temples are protected from being sued for refusing to marry persons on religious grounds.

4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon?
What two consenting people do in private is not the concern of the Nakadian government. Personal opinions on the subject may vary.

5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage?
Majority views are positive.

6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose?
Proposal methods are left to the individual, the traditional way is common though.

7. Is parental approval needed?
Legally, only when the individuals are under the age of 18. Otherwise parental approval is not legally needed. Some traditionalists still do ask.

8. Who takes the last name?
Typically the wife takes the name of her husband unless otherwise stipulated.

9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both?
Both. Depends on the couple.

10. Are wedding expensive?
They can be, but that all depends on how much the couple is willing to spend or not spend.

11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day?
Nakad has compulsory nudity, so weddings are done in the nude.

12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)?
Wherever the couple has organised the event, there is no designated area for weddings.

13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)?
Wherever the couple has organised the event, there is no designated area for weddings.

14. What sort of music is usually played?
Whatever music has been arranged by the couple.

15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss?
Couples are free to write their own vows or use the traditional ones, it is up to them. Most couples do kiss.

16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not?
Yes, typically common. Usually not separated by gender, but that would depend on the couple.

17. If yes, what is done at afterparties?
Eating, drinking, dancing, talking.

18. What kind of lovers are YN's people?
It can vary, there's no real standard.

19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding?
Sexual activity is not the concern of anyone except the individuals involved. Unless in a public space, then it's a crime.

20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime?
Yes, sexual activity that is not consenting is considered rape, even in a marriage.

21. Are there limits to how many children they can have?
No.

22. Is your leader married?
No.

23. What is a common pickup line?
N/A

[Danceria]

(This is a tag as I am on mobile)

[Crylante]

1. What is the age limit for marriage? 17.
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens? Divorce is legal and considered socially acceptable.
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens? It was added in by the Third Amendment, and considered socially acceptable.
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon? It is legal, and no-one cares.
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage? The attitude has morphed from the pre-1980's view as a way to rear a family, to the post-1980's view that it is to celebrate a union between people.
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose? Anyone can propose, and proposing is normally done by buying a necklace with a 7-pointed star attached and giving it to the person you want to marry.
7. Is parental approval needed? No.
8. Who takes the last name? It used to be the husband, but now it has morphed to be a matter of personal choice. Most same-sex couples hyphenate.
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both? It's generally a ceremony reserved for family and friends.
10. Are wedding expensive? Quite expensive, yes.
11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day? Generally white clothes.
12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)?
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)? They are held in Truathi temples, or in government buildings, or other religious venues.
14. What sort of music is usually played? Traditional Crylantian folk music is played.
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss? The couple tie a rope together, and kiss over it.
16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not? Afterparties consist of eating fish together around a table.
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties? See above.
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people? Caring and compassionate.
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding? Whatever the couple wants, really.
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime? Yes.
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have? No.
22. Is your leader married? Four of them are.
23. What is a common pickup line? Pick-up lines are not a part of our culture.

[Communal Ecotopia]

1. What is the age limit for marriage? 18. 16 with judicial bypass.
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens? It's entirely legal. Our marriage rate is somewhat low, so divorce is less common than might be imagined.
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens? Legal, common, and considered ordinary.
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon? Legal and fairly commonplace.
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage? Most like the idea of commitment, but most generally don't like the idea that state or church should be involved in that commitment.
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose? Proposals are not based on gender and can range from simple to complex. The only unusual feature is that many are conducted nude (and, therefore, usually privately), though this is just custom not requirement.
7. Is parental approval needed? No
8. Who takes the last name? Up to the parties involved.
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both? Both. Most prefer smaller ceremonies though.
10. Are wedding expensive? They can be whatever the couple wants, but often aren't terribly expensive. That's considered a little gauche when other people are starving.
11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day? What they wish.
12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)? They can be anywhere, but outdoor weddings are common.
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)? They can be anywhere, but outdoor weddings are common.
14. What sort of music is usually played? Anything upbeat or romantic...whatever the couple likes.
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss? The ceremony is usually simple, but the couple decides the content. Kissing, while not mandatory, is so common that people think it weird not to.
16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not? They are common and not separated by gender.
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties? Up to the couple.
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people? Generally considered gentle, generous, passionate, and tender lovers, it is practice to meld spirituality and sexuality.
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding? Kids can certainly result and are wanted, but it's mostly for pleasure and connection.
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime? Absolutely!
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have? No legal limits exist, but any more than 3-4 is highly unusual, and many have only one or two.
22. Is your leader married? In a committed relationship, but not married.
23. What is a common pickup line? Something personal and romantic. If you heard it in a bar, we don't use it. Much.

[Watuhuru]

1. What is the age limit for marriage? 18 for both sexes
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens? Yes to both. Depending upon the reason for divorce, divorcees might not notice a change in their treatment, or they might become ostrized. It depends.
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens? No
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon? It's legal after the age of consent, though it is still heavily frowned upon regardless of sex
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage? It is an vital institution, and one that should be protected.
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose? The standard Watuhuri proposal starts with one partner exchanging a gift (what this gift is traditionally is determined by what tribe they come from, though usually it's a small trinket, like a necklace or earring. with the other and asks to marry the receiver. If the giftee wishes to marry the gifter, the they will put on the trinket, and agree. And, yes, women can propose.
7. Is parental approval needed? Not legally, but it is traditional for the man to go to the woman's father, or the woman to go to the man's mother, whomever is doing the proposal.
8. Who takes the last name? Technically, both partners take each other's names, but as an added middle name, rather then replacing their own surname, though women often ask to be called by their husband's surname. Children take the father's surname.
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both? As is common for most Watuhuri holidays and customs, there are usually two wedding celebrations, one during the day and one during the night. The day is a small, private affair among the immediate family of the couple. The one at night is an explosive party that often involves friends' of friends' of friends' of friends' of friends.
10. Are wedding expensive? Very much so.
11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day? Again, this is more based on what tribe the spouses are from originally, but a common theme is that both should be wearing very brightly colored clothing, often with jewelry and other decorations.
12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)?Wherever the partners wish, though commonly near the town's shrine/church/temple/religious site.
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)? Once again, inside the town's shrine/church/temple/religious site, or within one of the spouse's parental dwelling.
14. What sort of music is usually played? Based on tribe and which ceremony it is. Daytime ceremony music is subdued but joyful, and nighttime ceremony music usually is frantic in pace. Strangely, dubstep is becoming far more common theses days.
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss? The priest (or government official in non-religious ceremonies) starts by asking for the gods' favor in this union, quote some relevant passage from the holy scripts (that was predetermined with help from the couple). The couples recite vows, pledging themselves to each other, and then seal the vow with a kiss. The priest (or government official) then declare the couple as one person, husband and wife.
16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not? As should be readily apparent, yes.
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties? What ever the couple wants. Alcohol is almost universally involved.
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people? Quite well, we would hope.
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding? It can be both.
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime? Yes.
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have? Heck no!
22. Is your leader married? There was a rumor that he is, but he has gone on record saying that he is not married at the moment.
23. What is a common pickup line? Mata-Nui must of blessed me, since I'm looking at an angel.

[Aldina]

1. What is the age limit for marriage? Twenty, or fifteen with both spouses' parents/guardians' permission.
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens? Yes, the contract may be annulled similarly to any other contract.
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens? Sort of. The Imperial government does not perform marriages; instead, they hand out civil unions. Subtle difference: marriage is seen as a religious affair (and civil unions may be performed between any two adult citizens).
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon? It is technically frowned upon, but it is acknowledged as basically universal.
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage? Positive, generally.
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose? Technically a proposition is not even necessary; all that is needed is for both spouses to contact a judge about getting a civil union. Marriage proposition traditions vary from province to province or even region to region.
7. Is parental approval needed? No; the Imperial government recognizes every citizen's right to basic self-determination.
8. Who takes the last name? Generally families are patronymic, but this is not universal.
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both? Again, it varies. If you're just getting a civil union, then a small party is generally in order. If you're going whole-hog with a church and best men and stuff, the group will be a bit larger.
10. Are wedding expensive? Depends. See above.
11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day? Generally a tuxedo for the groom and a white gown for the bride are preferred; again, this is not universal.
12.  Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)? Generally in or near a church, but again it depends.
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)? In the judge's office, generally.
14. What sort of music is usually played? Varies. Hymnals, popular music such as jazz, and the occasional folk song are all popular choices.
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss? Stop asking me questions with so much regional variance! But a kiss is traditional, yes.
16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not? Yes they are, and no they are not.
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties? Drinking. Lots.
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people? You're asking me to boil down an entire country to a single descriptor?
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding? Again, personal preference.
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime? Rape is recognized as a crime period.
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have? No.
22. Is your leader married? Not presently, but it's rumored that the prince-regant of Arlecchino has his eye on the young Empress (and vice-versa). Tabloid speculation on the matter was met with a resounding "Well DUH!" from the populace.
23. What is a common pickup line? (Not going to answer this one because I've totally blanked on pickup lines.)

[Manhat]

1. What is the age limit for marriage? 13
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens? Yes, it is legal, it is acceptable.
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens? Yes, it was never seen as wrong.
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon? Yes, no it is not.
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage? You either do or you don't, there is no pressure.
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose? An item that means a lot to both of the couples, yes women can propose.
7. Is parental approval needed? If they are 13 to 14 yes, 15 and over no.
8. Who takes the last name? That is decided by both parties.
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both? Depends on what the couple wants.
10. Can wedding be expensive? Depends on how much they want to spend.
11. What do the spouses wear on their wedding day? A gown and a tux, two tuxes or two gowns.
12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)? Wherever the party has been planned at.
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)? Same as above answer.
14. What sort of music is usually played? Songs the couples both pick out to show their feelings.
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss? Asked if they accept the bonds, yes they kiss or hug, either one.
16. Are afterparties common? It is one party.
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties? Dancing, storytelling, and drinking.
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people? Depends on the couple.
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding? It is for both but mostly pleasure and bonding.
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime? Yes, and punishable.
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have? It is limited at how many they can handle money wise.
22. Is your leader married? Not yet.
23. What is a common pickup line? None really, just whatever comes to mind, each has their own.

[Les Guyanes]

1. What is the age limit for marriage? 18
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens? Yes, divorce is normal and not looked down upon. Sometimes things don't work out.
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens? Yes, around 40% of all marriages are homosexual, celebrated in the same way heterosexual marriages are.
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon? No, extremely common to have sex before marriage.
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage? Most see it as more of a symbolic union, due to irreligion its more of just a term for a civil union. The government attaches no god or religion to marriage licenses.
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose? However they please, anyone can propose to anyone.
7. Is parental approval needed? No, of course not
8. Who takes the last name? Whoever wants to, although hyphenated names are becoming increasingly popular among young married couples.
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both? Depends on the people
10. Are wedding expensive? They can be yes, but they can be virtually free as well
11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day? Anything they want
12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)? Anywhere, beaches are popular and there aren't that many churches
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)? Anywhere, homes are popular
14. What sort of music is usually played? Depends on the couple's preference
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss? Most people say "J'accepte" or "oui", even if they don't speak French. Kissing is common but not a requirement.
16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not? Yes, separated however the hosts decide
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties? Depends on the couple.
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people? Depends on the couple, but Guyanais are known to be passionate.
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding? For whatever they want
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime? Yes, of course. Punishable.
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have? No
22. Is your leader married? Yes, she is married to her wife.
23. What is a common pickup line? Pickup lines are often laced with humor, a popular one "Je rêve de tremper ma baguette dans ta soupe," (I dream of soaking my baguette in your soup).

[Ilha das Tempestades]

1. What is the age limit for marriage? 15

2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens?: Only legal for sever spousal abuse or becoming widowed. The idea of a couple living separate or splitting is rather taboo.

3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens?: Yes most citizens don't pay it much mind as there isn't any taboos against it/

4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon?: No, quite contrary it's very encouraged.

5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage?: It's very important aspect of society and it's considered a true rite of passage for a young couple.

6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose?: However they see fit, usually offering up some kind of gift or token of affection followed by some means of asking for marriage. Men and women alike can ask for marriage.

7. Is parental approval needed? Culturally it's expected but it's not legally required.

8. Who takes the last name? People in IDT are all single names so no family name is given.

9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both? Both

10. Are wedding expensive? No

11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day? Depends on traditions, means the family has background of the people. Sometimes full nudity is accepted or desired sometimes an outfit worn for religious ceremonies, such as a dancer outfit. Sometimes it's dress as they are but there's no fanciful white gown like others might have or full layers of clothing like suits or tux.

12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)? Can be held in a village center, in and around homes of the people being married. Sometimes in a temple.

13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)? A private wedding would probably be held in a home or even secluded wilderness spot.

14. What sort of music is usually played? Dance instrumental music.

15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss? A kiss exchanged after swearing loyalty and love for eternity to their partner.

16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not?: The wedding is usually a full party in of itself and the party will continue after the vows are exchanged. They're not separated by gender because the families and friends will be present

17. If yes, what is done at after parties? Eating, dancing and mingling

18. What kind of lovers are YN's people? Passionate lovers, romantics and empathetic types

19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding? It's for both

20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime? No

21. Are there limits to how many children they can have? No

22. Is your leader married? Yes

23. What is a common pickup line? Your as hot as the jungle itself!

[Menta Lee-IL]

ALL ILLEGAL.

[Thermodolia]

1. What is the age limit for marriage?
18, 16 with parental approval
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens?
Divorce is legal in all cases. The people don't really give a shit. Widows and widowers are not a separate class under the law, outside of receiving their partners possessions, pensions, and death benefits they are treated equally.
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens?
Yes same sex marriage is legal. Everyone is fine with it.
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon?
Yes. No what two consenting adults do in the bedroom isn't a concern of the people.
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage?
It's ok.
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose?
Most people propose on one knee usually with a ring. Yes anyone no matter their gender is allowed to propose.
7. Is parental approval needed?
Only if one is 16 and 17.
8. Who takes the last name?
Depends on the couple.
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both?
Depends on the couple.
10. Are wedding expensive?
Depends on the wedding.
11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day?
Depends on the couple.
12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)?
Wherever the couple can find space.
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)?
Wherever the couple can find space.
14. What sort of music is usually played?
Depends on the couple.
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss?
Depends on the religion of the participants and the couple. The government doesn't keep track of that.
16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not?
Afterparties are pretty common. Depends on the wedding, the couple, and the religion of the participants.
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties?
Depends on the afterpary.
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people?
The government has no clue what kind of question that is.
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding?
Sexual activity is what ever two consenting individuals want it to be for.
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime?
Yes. Rape is defined as any non consenting sexual acts between two or more persons.
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have?
No that's dumb.
22. Is your leader married?
Yes, President Jacob Zarman is married to his husband Mark Zarman and Prime Minister Derak Gœs is married to his wife Maria Gœs.
23. What is a common pickup line?
The government doesn't keep track of this stuff.

[Elykyellek]

1. What is the age limit for marriage? 17
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens? Divorce is legal and while many view it as a sad occasion it isn't really looked down upon
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens? Yes, and it is an ordinary part of society
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon? Legal, and it is commonplace
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage? It is seen as a positive thing but not a necessity
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose? There are no formalities of one party proposing over another
7. Is parental approval needed? If one is 17 then parental approval is needed, after 18 approval is not needed since they are legally considered adults
8. Who takes the last name? It is not customary for people to change their surnames after marriage
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both? They can be both
10. Are wedding expensive? They can be but they be just as inexpensive
11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day? Generally men wear suits and women wear formal dresses
12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)? Usually in places that are of significance to the couple
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)? Same as party weddings
14. What sort of music is usually played? Music that is of significance to the couple
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss? The couple exchanges vows, the officiant declares the marriage and the couple kisses
16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not? Yes, what would be the fun of a wedding without the afterparty. And no, they are not separated by gender.
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties? Eating and dancing
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people? Enthusiastic, loyal and passionate
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding? For pleasure
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime? Yes
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have? No
22. Is your leader married? No
23. What is a common pickup line? "Oh, hello there."

[Estainia]

---Retconned due to internal consistency issues.

[The Federal Kingdom Of Zuhi]

1. What is the age limit for marriage?: 16
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens?: Divorces are legal. Including after becoming a widow. our people have no shame on divorces.
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens?: Same-sex marriage is legal. most Zuhians are in support of same-sex marriage.
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon?: Yes, sex before marriage is legal. it is not frowned upon, however.
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage?: Our people honor marriage as a sacred vow to another. some religious Zuhians also believe marriage is such a power bond, that it goes even into the afterlife.
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose?: ways of proposal can vary, and since the offical Zuhian government has not conducted a survey for this specific topic, we are unsure. But women are free to propose.
7. Is parental approval needed?: Parental approval is not needed, however, some religious families would prefer or require parental approval.
8. Who takes the last name?: Depends on couple to couple, some would like to inherit the other's name and some want to keep their own.
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both?: Varies from couple to couple.
10. Are wedding expensive?: If a Zuhian couple cannot afford their own wedding, their are buildings all over Zuhi managed by the Zuhian government to give free wedding rooms to those who can't afford their own weddings. the couple can ask to be given a preset theme to a room, or decorate one as they see fit.
11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day?: Varies
12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)?: Varies
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)?: Varies
14. What sort of music is usually played?: Varies
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss?: Varies
16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not?: Varies
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties?: Varies
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people?: Varies
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding?: Some Religious couples prefer having sex for the sole purpose of baring children, some wish to use contraceptives, and some do a bit of both.
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime?: When one Zuhian wishes to engage in sexual activity, and the other does not wish to engage in it, is always rape in the eyes of the Zuhian Government.
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have: No limits.?
22. Is your leader married?: Sadly, our Chancellor does not have a fellow Chancellor to rule with him.
23. What is a common pickup line?: Varies

[Novyy Balans]

1. What is the age limit for marriage?
In Novyy Balans, marriage is overseen by spiders. Government has no say. We do not know how the spiders pick the couples, but they usually pick people who are sexually mature.
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens?
Divorce is not illegal, since there is no government sanctioned marriages. As far as we know, no couple has ever attempted to divorce by spider.
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens?
Spiders do not choose homosexuals, but the people of novyy balans see no issue with homosexuals living together.
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon?
The spiders do not care.
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage?
Fear and uncertainty. Many married couples never return.
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose?
A great horde of spiders descend from mountain at night, and in the morning couple is gone. They usually return within week wearing ragged silken robes and with a haunted look in their eyes.
7. Is parental approval needed?
Spiders do not care.
8. Who takes the last name?
Is irrelevant. Name changing is as easy as buying popcorn, and spiders do not care.
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both?
We do not want to know.
10. Are wedding expensive?
No. In fact, couples usually turn profit, as spider-silk is very valuable in sbalansirovanyy engineering.
11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day?
As stated before, spider-silk gowns. Woman tends towards veiled and flowing, while man is more like cocoon.
12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)?
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)?
14. What sort of music is usually played?
The shrieking and chittering of spiders is heard at night. Some of the peasants claim that this is the music of the wedding. Spider-musicians working in city back this up, as they produce loud clattering sounds by rubbing legs together and they force air through fangs to make a terrifying scream.
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss?
The few reports the NvBSP has indicate some form of exchange between bride, groom, and spider. No other data can be found at moment, as anything we keep is stolen by spiders.
16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not?
Funeral-like occurences where the families and friends get to know their loved ones again, and mourn the people they once were.
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties?
Mostly talking, weeping, breaking of ties and awkward excuse making to avoid the new couple for a while. Eventually it disperses and couple usually moves to new community.
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people?
We are very big on love. Just not marriage.
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding?
Before marriage, is fun. After marriage, there are reports of couples both weeping softly as they do the deed. Like robots.
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime?
Yes, although some ask if post-marital rape should be given new classification, as some consider married people to be no longer fully human.
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have?
No.
22. Is your leader married?
Heavens no. Prime Minister has a loving girlfriend and a child, and wishes to keep it that way. Marriage is far too much responsibility.
23. What is a common pickup line?
"Hey, if we are lucky tonight maybe spider not steal us. If not, well, there are worse people to marry."

[The Land of the Ephyral]

1. What is the age limit for marriage?

A female can be married from the moment she's recognised as a woman. This occurs during the religious rite after a girl has her first menstrual cycle. A man may marry from his age of majority, sixteen.
A woman is considered 'adult' at sixteen, and in the freeholder class, sixteen and seventeen is a common age for marriage by women, though a woman is capable of marrying or courting younger than this.

2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens?

Divorce is legal, but not common. Divorce occurs usually in instance of shame or dishonour. A woman might, with the backing of her family, divorce a husband who has committed adultery, or exploited her as a domestic slave (beyond acceptable female subservience). A man might divorce a wife if she has been unfaithful, or if she has otherwise made their marriage problematic. Widows are considered liberated from marital oaths in death, but some older widows do not remarry and remain faithful to their deceased husbands. Divorces are not really held to be good or bad, just needing good reason.

3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens?

No. Though Ephyral sexual dichotomy means that a man may have sex with a man, and a woman may have sex with a woman (though stigmas and risk apply), marriage born of desire is prohibited, and the homosexual desire is treated as an illness. Two women who marry the same man are not considered wed to one another.

4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon?

Highly discouraged. A girl and later woman is advised to retain her virginity to her wedding night. Boys and men are encouraged not to dishonour a woman by robbing her of her virtue before marriage. If a man is lied to about a potential bride having her virginity, and it comes to light she does not, it might end the wedding. Pre-marital promiscuity is, in Ephyra, linked to higher adultery rates. Despite this however,
it is difficult to police a woman's activities in the lower classes as women do not need male escorts. Because of this, many women have had sex around once or twice before their marriage, often with the partner they intend to marry. However, an excess of three, or even four different sexual partners prior to marriage is deemed inexcusable.

5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage?

A necessary and joyous institution.

6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose?

A gift of a choker is provided from man to woman. A man's first wife will be gifted with a golden choker, nothing too large but ring-like. The choker, when worn, symbolises her being placed under his protection. Because of this, women do not propose.

7. Is parental approval needed?

Parental approval is typically needed for a man and a woman to begin courting. A woman is capable of organising initial dates for herself but if the relationship is to develop, the man is required to be satisfactory primarily to the woman's father, but also to a degree, her mother. Because courtship was approved, it was done so with marriage in mind, and ultimately when a man decides to propose is his choice.
Unless evidence can be brought that the man himself is unworthy, a father cannot legally prohibit a marriage he earlier sanctioned by allowing courtship.

8. Who takes the last name?

Ephyral naming conventions are slightly different. A man may be called Valarr Celtalos Daliryen, and a woman may be called Aria Ezuepa Malonnis. When married, she will be known as Aria Ezuepa Malonnis Daliryen. However, many marriages occur between members of the same clan but different families, so it's likely she was Aria Celtalos Malonnis, and became Aria Celtalos Malonnis Daliryen. Clan affiliation is not necessary however but simply is common. They are slowly dying out though, as the former divisions of areas by clan is no longer a factor.

10. Are wedding expensive?

Customarily yes, but the cost can be decreased for a lesser experience.

11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day?

A man is expected to wear his finest kandar robe (essentially as important as the suit), whilst the woman should wear a zyslar or selar gown depending on her social class.

12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)?

Ephyral weddings are not deemed overtly 'party' or 'private'.

13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)?

Ephyral weddings are not deemed overtly 'party' or 'private'.

14. What sort of music is usually played?

Choice of the man and his bride(s), but by tradition, cultural Ephyral music is selected.

15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss?

The man and his bride(s) share a drink from a goblet of blooded wine. There is no kiss, and the affirmation of intent to marry is at the beginning of the ceremony, not at the end.

16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not?

Wedding receptions became commonplace after it was adopted by foreign nations. The Ephyral utilised it as a formal occassion to celebrate the marriage after the wedding ceremony itself. As a rsult,
they aren't forced, but are common, and whether or not there will be one is decided by the man and his woman. Because of the expense, few lower class couples will engage in such an activity, or otherwise provide a smaller reception at their home.

17. If yes, what is done at afterparties?

Food is eaten, and beverages are drunk. It's considered a prelude to passion for all involved. At the close of the afterparty, a man and his wife will perform the 'first night', where they consummate their marriage. Couples in attendance may engage in carnal activities also, either retiring to their own abodes to do so, renting a hotel if far from home, or just performing the act right there.

18. What kind of lovers are YN's people?

Passionate would be a generous word. Harsh would be more realistic. Ephyral society and culture is forged around the idea of supremacy, the servant and the master. This is true even in sex, where the man is expected to take the dominant role with the woman, and essentially lead her through sexual intercourse. This isn't just about control however. A woman will only submit to a man she trusted enough to marry,
and as a result, sex itself is a demonstration both of the male ability to protect and lead, and the female willingness to trust and comply. Intercourse is expected to be the most sensational and intense feeling anyone has, and the woman has as much responsibility to provide to this as the man.

19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding?

It can vary, and truthfully this changes the sexual position. Sex for reproduction often involves the female partner facing away from the male, as a 'rear entry' sexual interaction is more likely to result in conception. There's nothing to say this cannot be both pleasurable and a bonding experience, especially if both partners simply prefer this sexual position. Others prefer face-to-face intercourse specifically for bonding,
or for reproduction also. A man and woman should cease sexual activity, closer than they were when they started.

20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime?

No. This stems from the Old Empire where women existed more as slaves than anything else. To guarantee childbirth, the law was never repealed. A man is not penalised by the law for engaging in sexual acts with his wife against her will, because she legally gave her consent when she married. This law however is not representative of reality, and though female subservience remains a factor, few husbands are willing to risk the affections of their wives by raping her.

21. Are there limits to how many children they can have?

No. In fact, women are encouraged to conceive as many times as they can, or can financially afford during her fertile years. Childbirth is deemed a duty of women.

22. Is your leader married?

The Emperor is married yes. Has two wives, following the tradition both of Imperial polygamy, and of ritual incest to maintain blood purity. One wife, Rhaela Anogaryen Raptaris, is the sister of the Emperor Vahaenyx XII Anogaryen Raptaris Asahlinion, whilst the other, Rhaelinor Anogaryen Raptaris, is the niece of the Emperor. The former was wed out of duty, the latter was wed for political reasons. Though women cannot inherit, Rhaelinor posed an unwitting risk, as rebel groups would scapegoat her as the heir instead of Vahaenyx, so by taking her as his wife, she thus relinquished her position as daughter of the former Emperor and became known as the wife of the current.

23. What is a common pickup line?

Pickup lines are not an accepted act. Ephyral women will look at foreign men with disdain if they approach them with a pickup line. It his however accepted for a man to compliment a woman to get her attention. It's then joked he has seven seconds to win her over before she loses interest.

[Terrashine]

1. What is the age limit for marriage? 20 for baselines, may go up to 100 for age tweak nearbaselines.
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens? Yes, it's currently legal. However, it is extremely rare, and people don't get used to that.
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens? Yes, but many people seems to be uncomfortable with it.
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon? Illegal and frowned upon.
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage? I've scooped an example. "Marriage? That's great, we need more people for country development."
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose? The information about proposing is collected in both's brain implant memory. Any gender can propose.
7. Is parental approval needed? Partially.
8. Who takes the last name? This is agreed by the couple.
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both? Both.
10. Are wedding expensive? No.
11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day? Usually normal suits, but in good conditions.
12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)? Anywhere appropriate.
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)? Anywhere appropriate.
14. What sort of music is usually played? The music the couple likes.
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss? No, they don't. Kiss is not our way to say 'I love you'.
16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not? Afterparties are common, and is not separated by genders (imagine how complex it'd be, and those with gender unaligned with the couple.)
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties? Like, usual parties.
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people? Uh, Idk, but most couples are long-live.
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding? Not strict, you can do that if you like, but I suggest a condom for everyone.
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime? Yes.
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have? No, but most have no more than 3.
22. Is your leader married? I AM NOT!
23. What is a common pickup line? (What pickup line?)

[Xelsis]

Quite a detailed list, very nice.

1. What is the age limit for marriage?

In terms of limits, there is no upper bound of age. Marriages may be made unilaterally beginning at age 12, and can begin at age 8, with a application process required to determine emotional maturity, and a lack of coercion. Marriages at such ages are exceedingly rare, and generally highly uncomfortable to most society-it is almost unheard of to see more than a handful in any given year, the age of marriage being, on average, far higher.

2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens?

Divorce is illegal in all cases. Remarriage after the death of a spouse is technically legal, but is heavily frowned upon by society, generally being perceived as a sort of infidelity, with some localities enacting bans on the practice.

3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens?

Homosexual marriage is illegal, and abhorrent to the vast majority of the citizenry, though small percentages of the populace have lobbied in favor of normalizing such relations.

4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon?

Premarital sex is not criminalized, but heavily frowned upon societally, particularly for men. Men who engage in premarital sex are generally considered to have tarnished their honor, and lose their status. Women who engage in premarital sex are frowned on heavily as well, though the societal judgement is generally less punishing than with men.

5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage?

Highly puritanical, and heavily centred around concepts of duty. Marriage is generally seen as a matter of love-forced or arranged marriages are illegal without consent-but first and foremost as a series of responsibilities to be discharged, wife to husband, and husband to wife. Becoming one flesh is seen as an incredibly serious commitment-though societal pressures, or simply carnal desire lead to a reasonable marriage rate regardless. For those in favor, the strict bonds of marriage are seen as a bedrock of society, the sublimation of one will to another-to the detractors, as an archaic and overly harsh institution highly limiting to those within it.

6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose?

Traditional Xelsian proposals are made by physical gesture. Specifically, the proposing spouse will reverse their hand, palm facing inward, knuckles out, and take the hand of the other, touching them knuckle-to-knuckle, and intwining the fingers. The proposer will place their hand atop the wrapped ones-if the proposed-to accepts, they will do the same, if not, they will break the bond. The motion of going hand-to-hand is quite a recognizable one, but more simple means of either asking before making the formal proposal, or purely verbal proposals, do occur.

Women are allowed to propose as men are, in the same manner, and often do so.

7. Is parental approval needed?

Parental approval is only needed for marriages in which the participants are 8-11 years of age, as part of the application process. Otherwise, parental permission is not required, and often not asked for, though it is occasionally seen as a courtesy.

8. Who takes the last name?

A somewhat odd Xelsian tradition-and one that is much to the dismay of census-keepers and genealogists, is for the couple to adopt a new last name upon their marriage. Generally this is a fully independent name, occasionally it is a merger of both of their names. A substantial minority of couples do adopt the name of the other-of these, there is no particular tradition as to who's name is adopted, but it is generally the female's, a relic of inheritance through the mother in older days.

9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both?

Weddings are generally mostly private, though it varies by couple-ostentatious displays are traditionally frowned upon. While often brought in regardless, there is less focus on familial ties being involved in the ceremonies, guests are more likely to be friends and compatriots of the couple, though immediate families almost invariably are invited, unless the marriage is in defiance of parental will. Occasional large weddings do occur, but by and large, the affair is focused on the couple.

10. Are wedding expensive?

The cost of weddings varies quite a bit, but weddings among the influential or well-endowed generally become highly expensive affairs. Dinners and wedding cakes are not an essential part of Xelsian weddings, but decorations are very highly prized, and wealthier couples often adorn chapels to an extreme extent. Those lacking the resources resort to simpler decorations, with costs present, but generally not overly burdensome, minimalism serving as an excuse for frugality.

11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day?

Gentlemen generally wear suits, without head adornment, and a cravat while women wear full dresses of varying make, along with a headpiece or veil. The headpiece/veil and cravat are traditional for the final part of the ceremony, but otherwise the suit and dress can vary somewhat in make and design. Traditionally, the bride and groom were opposite colors, blue and orange, red and green, yellow and purple, and the like, with bright colors most common, without either gender having any real monopoly on color.

12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)?

"Party" weddings are rare, but they do occur. Typically in such cases banquet halls and the like would be selected as locations in order to handle the influx of guests-outdoor party weddings are logistic nightmares, but do occur in some cases, particularly with the wealthy.

13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)?

Chapels, almost exclusively, are the domain of private weddings if indoors. In general, the older, the better-preferred, many stone structures, centuries old, are fought-over as destinations. If not in a chapel, outdoor weddings are the most common exception to the rule, varying in location.

14. What sort of music is usually played?

Instrumental music, almost unfailingly. Generally such music is quiet and soft, background music, flutes and such, if it is played at all-using lyrical musical pieces is highly irregular, and likely to draw some disdain from guests.

15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss?

After the exchange of vows, the couple conclude the ceremony by a pair of ritual actions. Basins of water are brought forward, and the shoes of first the bride, and then the groom, removed. The groom washes the feet of the bride by hand, using his cravat as the washcloth, the bride then follows by washing the feet of the groom, using the headpiece or veil, though in some modern weddings, the item of clothing used varies, that it is a part of the wedding apparel is essential to the ritual. The action symbolizes devotion and servanthood to the other, as well as the denial of self, expensive and beautiful clothing being used as a rag to further the beauty of the other.

After the completion of the foot-washing, the formal binding of the couples occurs. A knife is procured, with such ritual implements traditionally passed down through the family-some are hundreds of years old. The husband cuts along his right hand lightly-generally a single cut, though some weddings involve a second, with the knife. The wife then cuts her left hand in the same manner. The cut hands are pressed together, wound against wound, and a strip of cloth is tied around their hands, binding them together. At this point the couple, blood mingled, is formally recognized as husband and wife, and the couple kiss. The cuts are meant to be light, non-debilitating, and are generally bandaged simply with cloth.

It is tradition for the cloth used to bind the hands together to be draped over the first couple of the child upon their birth.

16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not?

In general, celebrations with friends occur before the wedding, rarely separated by gender, but more by the party of the bride and groom. Afterparties, however, would be an abnormality-upon being bound, the couple are expected to steal away together-remaining for festivities would be extremely odd.

17. If yes, what is done at afterparties?

In the few, rare, cases of afterparties, generally for the influential, or in the similarly-rare case of remarriage, afterparties generally involve large meals, music, dancing-general characteristics of upper-level hosted parties, including a table for the bride, groom, and assorted compatriots.

18. What kind of lovers are YN's people?

Boring ones, more often that not. Certainly not wild or kinky. Xelsian culture is rather repressive of sexuality-while accepted by tenet within marriage, open sexuality is generally a source of discomfort, seen as somewhat shameless. Cultural norms are slowly shifting, but coital passion is not particularly highly prized, particularly due to the lack of, if such a term can be used in this sense "competition"-with rigid norms against premarital sex often meaning relations with a spouse are all that most Xelsians ever know-whether good or bad. "A Xelsian Lover" is something of a joking insult in some nations, though that is not to say that it is universal, simply made more usual and common by culture.

In terms of non-sexual love, devoted would certainly be the best term. Marriage is held above all else as a responsibility, infidelity as blasphemy-in those terms, even before a marriage, if dating or courting, one can expect faithfulness, even to extremes.

19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding?

Sexual activity, within marriage, isn't solely for reproduction, viewed, in general, as simply a natural consummation of the bond and expression of the couple's passion, though in some more conservative areas, there is a light stigma as to purely hedonistic sexual action. Celibate marriages are not unheard of in Xelsis, though a very small minority.

20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime?

Yes, and a heinous one. Marital rape carries a harsher penalty than any other first-time offense, including murder. Punishments of hundreds of lashes are possible, with the abused spouse holding the legal right to both make the decision, and to deliver the corporal punishment.

21. Are there limits to how many children they can have?

None whatsoever, beyond the practical limits of supporting a family.

22. Is your leader married?

The closest thing that Xelsis has to a central executive is a Paragon, of which there is none at this time, so I suppose that this would be "Not Applicable." The Chief Advisor of War, for whatever it is worth, is married.

23. What is a common pickup line?

"Mi'lady, it appears that you may have lost something-you seem to be missing any flaws at all."

[Nezirya]

1. What is the age limit for marriage? 22 and above, as in the age of 22, Nezirys earn their citizenship after 9 years of military compulsory service

2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens? Divorce is Illegal

3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens? Homosexuals are allowed to marry only if they have an offspring or a child to adopt and take care until the child joins school in the age of 6.

4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon? Very frowned upon, as the state views sex only by its functionality to give birth to offsprings who later serve Nezirya. Kids born outside of marriage may lose their opportunity to gain citizenship, unless adpoted by another family or a single individual. This is important, since an illegal child without adoption will be deported, and his or her parents fined for abandonment and disloyalty

5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage? The only functionality of marriage is to produce the nation's next soldiers, scholars and citizens. Love does not seem as a justified reason to marry all by itself.

6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose? The proposal is an offer of alliance served under Nezirya's wings. Both genders may propose without any dependence on a token but the contract themselves they ought to sign in their wedding.

7. Is parental approval needed? No, as the child will nevertheless be taken as government property from the age of 6 to the age of 22, after strict education and military programs funded solely by the government.

8. Who takes the last name? Irrelevant and depends on the decision of the married couple.

9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both? Weddings in Nezirya are funded by the government with private weddings or large parties, depends on the situation and economy.

10. Are wedding expensive? The weddings are very ascetic and may take around half an hour or a complete hour, with only simple food and water, as it is legal whatsoever while alcohol and other forms of a grandiose celebration - is illegal in general.

11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day? They may wear a military uniform, along with the grooms as well.

12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)? In a governmental, public building.

13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)? They may held in one of the couple's residence, with guidance of government representatives.

14. What sort of music is usually played? None. The only music that is allowed to be played in the company of others is either military music or soft jazz, but not in a wedding.

15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss? The state representatives simply ask the groom and the spouse to sign up a mutual contract. Kissing is voluntary, but a shame to the public eye like other forms of romance which do not occur in closed doors.

16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not? There are no afterparties in Nezirya. Marriage is nothing more but a contract of common agreement and alliance that commits them to bring offsprings.

17. If yes, what is done at afterparties? Read answer above.

18. What kind of lovers are YN's people? Love is not a necessity in Nezirya, and therefore - a dysfunction to social order. However, the couple are free to do as they please in their homes without external intervention, yet love is a rare accommodation in general among the majority of the population.

19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding? Children only, and activity of that nature is frowned upon if it's to be taken for hedonistic reasons.

20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime? Yes, as in the eyes of the Neziryan law, both lovers are equal in their status and position, and no lover has the right to enforce his or her authority on his or her counterpart even in the sake of reproduction.

21. Are there limits to how many children they can have? No, but a Nezir ought to have at least one kid, biological or adopted, before they reach the age of forty and above.

22. Is your leader married? The current leader has no faith in marriage, but adopts his kids from the members of the only ruling party, in which he himself is also its chairman. Of course, the General President himself needs a justification for adoption: politicians can have the honor to send their kids to adoption by the leader, or their children are taken by force in case treason done by their parents - or their deaths. However, the General President cannot take children from his party members simply by will.

23. What is a common pickup line? "Nezirya ought to be empowered"

[Rondi]

1. What is the age limit for marriage?
16, however until the age of 22 the age difference must be 2 years, ages 25-35 the age difference is 5 years and above that 10 years. Ages 50+ have no age difference restrictions (provided both are 50+).

2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens?
Yes. Both divorcees and widows have a "getting-back-on-the-horse-party" thrown in their honour by their local governors.

3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens?
As long as other marriage laws are not broken yes. Sexuality is of very little concern with most citizens.

4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon?
Yes. Not frowned upon and in fact encouraged.

5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage?
Somewhat negative as it removes the person from their community to focus on their family.

6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose?
Traditional proposal has both members dressing up as Elvis Presley and serenading to each other in a public market.

7. Is parental approval needed?
No.

8. Who takes the last name?
Last names are not hereditary. No citizen is allowed to change their last name unless mandated by their local county.

9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both?
Large parties.

10. Are wedding expensive?
Wedding parties have all expenses paid the guests attending.

11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day?
All black simple robes with no adornments.

12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)?
At designated party zones

13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)?
N/A

14. What sort of music is usually played?
Each guest may make a single request before the wedding and all requests are drawn at random setting the playlist. If the request is a repeat of one of the last three songs it will be put back in the draw. If the request has been already played 6 times it will be discarded.

15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss?
Each person will have a pint of Rondian beer and are encouraged to drink it in one sip to symbolise a healthy future.

16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not?
The whole event is a single party.

17. If yes, what is done at afterparties?
A celebration of excess. Excessive drinking, dancing and eating. More traditional weddings have several orgies.

18. What kind of lovers are YN's people?
Rondians range from vanilla to extremely kinky.

19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding?
Pleasure.

20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime?
Yes.

21. Are there limits to how many children they can have?
None.

22. Is your leader married?
No. Leaders are not allowed to be married as married Rondians primary concern is family.

23. What is a common pickup line?

[Calladan]

1. What is the age limit for marriage?
18

2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens?
Yes, and it is just considered just another thing that happens. People make mistakes - these things happen.

3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens?
Of course. And - to give you some idea - it is just referred to as "marriage". Not "gay marriage", not "homosexual marriage" - just "marriage".

4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon?
Yes, and no one cares one way or another as long as both parties are above the age of consent (otherwise it becomes an issue!)

5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage?
They can take it or leave it. The phrase "living in sin" died out nearly three generations ago and is now only used when mocking archaic values that no longer exist.

6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose?
However they see fit. And "allowed"?? You think we have LAWS about who can propose and who can't? What kind of whacked-out society do you think we have? Plus given that an estimated 45% of married couples are made up of two women, I think not allowing women to propose would cause a lot of discontent and disquiet.

7. Is parental approval needed?
If you are old enough to decide you are going to spend the rest of your life with someone, you don't need to ask your parents for permission first!

8. Who takes the last name?
Both, either or neither - it's a free country.

9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both?
Depends on the people having them.

10. Are wedding expensive?
Depends on the people having them.

11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day?
Depends on the people having them. (Weddings are fun - people have been known to dress up as characters from their favourite books, films, tv shows, theatre productions or historical periods. And some even decide not to wear clothes at all).

12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)?
Pretty much anywhere the wedding party wants (with only a few limitations - private property, security, safety concerns etc. Holding a wedding in the middle of a live fire test range, for example, is generally forbidden!)

13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)?
Ditto.

14. What sort of music is usually played?
Depends on the people involved.

15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss?
Depends on the people involved.

16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not?
Depends on the people involved. And no separation - everyone parties together to celebrate the happy event!

17. If yes, what is done at afterparties?
Depends on the people involved. Some go in for theme parties, some go for paint-balling, some go for parties out in the woods..... the world is an infinite place full of infinite choices.

18. What kind of lovers are YN's people?
Depends on the people

19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding?
Why does sex have to be for making children? Why can't it be ONLY for pleasure?

20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime?
Yes, obviously. Rape is a crime no matter what the circumstances.

21. Are there limits to how many children they can have?
No.

22. Is your leader married?
No (but that is her choice, rather than legally proscribed). She just hasn't met the right person yet.

23. What is a common pickup line?
Depends on the person

[Nortainland]

1. What is the age limit for marriage?
Those wishing to marry must be of marriageable age, which is fourteen for women and sixteen for men, however it is extremely rare for any person under the age of eighteen to marry and marriages of a woman under the age of 21 or of a man under the age of 18 require the consent of both fathers. There is no maximum age for marriage.
2. Is divorce legal? After becoming a widow? If yes, in what way is it treated by citizens?
Divorce or the dissolution of matrimony is the sole right of the Church of Nortend and usually is only granted after cases of adultery, domestic abuse, breaking of vows or other conditions, requiring an Act of Parliament. Marriage after divorce is generally not permitted except by petition to the Court of Faculties.
Remarriage after the death of a spouse is legal after at least six months of mourning however is uncommon.
Divorce is typically stigmatised in society and leads to social abandonment.
3. Is homosexual marriage legal? If yes, how is it treated by citizens? No
4. Is sex before marriage legal? Frowned upon? Whilst it is technically legal, it is extremely stigmatised and often results in a rushed wedding if pregnant.
5. What is your country's people's attitude towards marriage? Positive.
6. How do they propose? With what? Are women allowed to propose? Only men propose unless the woman is higher in status. Proposals typically traditionally consist of the man first asking the father of the woman for permission before asking her using the set phrase, 'Wilt thou me marry?'
7. Is parental approval needed? Yes
8. Who takes the last name? The woman
9. Are weddings private or large parties? Both? Weddings are always public. Private weddings are illegal, as one element of the ceremony is the requirement for any objectors to object if there be lawful impediment to the wedding.
10. Are wedding expensive? A basic wedding service is free, however most weddings cost extra for flowers, decorations &c. as well as the wedding breakfast.
11. What do the spouses wear at their wedding day? The standard is full dress which is a frock coat with striped trousers and hat carried indoors for the bridegroom and a wedding dress with veil for the bride. Soldiers, sailors, &c. may wear uniform.
12. Where are party weddings held (if you said yes)? N/A
13. Where are private weddings held (if you said yes)? N/A
14. What sort of music is usually played? At different parts in the service, hymns, anthems and psalms may be sung or read as appointed. Bells are also rung at the start and end of the service.
15. How is the ("I Do") ceremony played out? Do they kiss? The officiating priest will ask the bridegroom:

Name, wilt thou have this woman to thy wedded wife, to live together, after God's ordinance, in the holy estate of Matrimony? Wilt thou love her, comfort her, honour and keep her, in sickness and in health and forsakeing all other, keep thee only unto her so long as ye both shall live?

The bridegroom will say 'I will'. Then the officiating priest will ask the bride:

Name, wilt thou have this man to thy wedded husband to live together after God's ordinance, in the holy estate of matrimony? Wilt thou obey him, and serve him, love, honour, and keep him, in sickness, and in health, and forsakeing all other, keep thee only unto him, so long as ye both shall live?

The bride will bow her head and curtsey in reply. The Minister will then ask, 'Who giveth this woman to be marryed to this man?'
The bridegroom will be taught by the Minister to say:

I Name take thee Name as my wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forwards, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love, cherish, and to worship till death us depart, according to God's holy ordinance, and thereto I plight thee my troth.

The bride will then be taught by the Minister to say:
I Name take thee Name to my wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness or and in health, to love, cherish, and to obey till death us depart, according to God's holy ordinance, and thereto I give thee my troth.
The bridegroom then will be taught by the Minister to say:
With this ring I thee wed, with my body I thee worship, and with all my worldly goods I thee endow: In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Ghost. Amen.
There is no kissing.
16. Are afterparties common? Are they separated by gender or not? No
17. If yes, what is done at afterparties? N/A
18. What kind of lovers are YN's people? Romantic lovers
19. Is sexual activity strictly for making children or also for pleasure and bonding? Carnal intercourse is seen to be only for procreation.
20. Is rape recognized in marriage as a crime? No
21. Are there limits to how many children they can have? No
22. Is your leader married? Yes
23. What is a common pickup line? ?