Gifting of Swords

On the planet K'lais, there are two types of marriage ceremonies: the Ceremony of Joining and the Gifting of Swords. This article covers the more ancient tradition of Gifting Swords as a means of wedding a being's mate.   Gifting of Sword A more ancient method of wedding. A tradition kept and remembered by the military from their ancient days before the Clans of K'lais united and began working together instead of constantly warring. The gifting/trading of swords is a binding ceremony and only death can separate the joined couple. Frequently, the trading of swords is followed at a later date by a more public Celebration of Joining. The trading/gifting of swords is typically only done amongst military personnel, especially those onboard battlecruisers or other military-spacebound vehicles.   Despite the fact every K'laisian citizen (regardless of if they're born on the planet or not), must spend a year in the military, not all are aware of the military tradition based on the gifting of swords. It is a tradition followed mainly by those who are career military, or have family who were career military Violetta Cq’linns who offered a sword to Malik Addelia in Weight of Injustice).   The Gifting of a Sword, or trading of them, stems from the ancient days when K’lais’ clans constantly warred with each other.   During those days, K’laisian would present a weapon to his, or her, potential mate. It would be someone of great strength. Someone the K’laisian could trust to protect their family, to further their bloodline, while providing yi'gawnch gil paydeq (home and protection).   The blade symbolized an unbreakable bond between the pair. A sworn oath that only death would separate the two. The blades gifted were forged at the same time, using the same materials. And even then, the weapons could not be broken easily. And if a blade broke, the wielder typically died. For they would be without protection. As such, when a blade is offered to a potential mate, only death can end the joining.   Traditional Words Words used during a Celebration of Joining, especially where a sword has been offered and accepted: A decision of the heart and head. In unity, there is strength. May the blade that binds, forever protect your home and family. Forever bound, forever together.     (For more infomation on K'lais, the inhabitants, and more, check out the Corruption Universe, found on Amazon. Written under J.F. Posthumus.)