Collaring Ceremony

The Collaring Ceremony (commonly called simply the Collaring or Bonding) is an Ilaran wedding practice, dating back to the Shade dynasty. Traditionally taking place as a commitment between a Dominant and their submissive partner (but often used symbolically) it is an appeal to the Gods Below (Orin, Shoril and Argoth) to grant their blessing to the couple for a happy life.

Ceremony
Typically, the Collaring is presided over by an Imperial Prelan, or failing that a member of one of the participant's families. While the "Official" Imperial version has a set script, the less formal "family gathering" model does not.

Imperial Script
[Dominant and submissive stand at the front of the Temple, and the Prelate begins the ceremony when all are present]

Opening Rite
''We gather today to witness the bonding of these souls. In the eyes of the Gods Below they offer themselves. In the name of Orin, they declare their Commitment, both to each other, and to the ideals of Ilara. In Shoril's name, they seek to declare their love. In Argoth's eye, they look to eternity, Their souls bound in the Eternal Path.''

[Here, the Collar is brought out, generally borne by a member of the Dominant's family]

By this, the Collar, the unending circle, They pledge their devotion.

[At this point, the Dominant takes the Collar into their hands and speaks]

Dominant Script
''In this collar lies My promise and devotion. To love and to cherish you, forever in the eyes of the Gods Below. In Orin's name, I declare my commitment to you, In Argoth's eye, I see our life.''

[the Dominant places the Collar on the submissive's neck; the submissive bows their head and speaks.]

Submissive Script
''In taking this collar, I affirm and return Your promise and devotion. To love and cherish You, forever in the eyes of the Gods Below. In Orin's name, I declare my commitment to you, In Argoth's eye, I see our life.''

[The Prelate then secures the Collar by locking it, then speaks a final piece.]

Final Rite
''In securing this Collar, I declare you bonded, In the eyes of the Gods Below and the law of Ilara. May the Gods forever grant you peace and happiness. A't'enga do Argoth. A't'enga do Shoril. A't'enga do Orin. A't'enga do Ilara.''