Magic Merging

And their magic merged; the couple knew that their magic would be stronger when they were together and that their own individual magic had changed. When their magic merged, it was such a spectacle for those that came to witness the ceremony that others rushed to complete the ceremony as well. Magic merging is a sign of the utmost compatibility both personally and magically.
--A quote from the Codex Magicae

Merging is the witches' version of human marriage. Mergings are actually very similar to human wedding ceremonies, but because of their attitudes towards humans, witches like to believe that Mergings are completely different. In the same vein, dating is almost identical to human's dating (although there may be some magical components involved).
Magic Merging is completely symbolic; the couple's magic does not actually merge. However, according to the Codex Magicae, Merging used to be literal; the couple would receive some of the other's magic. An actual, literal Merging has not happened in many centuries, and some people believe that literal Merging isn't possible.

Show spoiler

It is possible! And will happen very soon.

History

Mergings were first recorded in the Codex Magicae, although the first occurence of a Merging was supposedly completed many centuries before the Codex Magicae's inception.
Historically, it is recorded that the Merging was not symbolic, but it has been at least since the Codex Magicae's publication since the last literal Merging has taken place.

Execution

There is no set way the Merging has to be performed. Mergings range from small, intimate gatherings to large, boisterous celebrations; it depends entirely on the couple. Sometimes, the religion of the couple plays a big part, and sometimes it does not.
Typically, some sort of vows are recited (the vows are written by the couple).

Tattoos

The most unique part of the Merging is the tattoos. Separately, the couple designs (with a tattoo artist) the tattoo that will be tattooed on their partner. Not only does the tattoo signify a Merging, but it also symbolizes the deep trust and understanding required to be Merged. Tattoos may be very small or large. Since it is such a solemn ceremony, there is very little chance that a tattoo would be designed to be silly or offensive.
After the recitation of vows, a magical tattoo artist comes to perform the tattoos, which is watched by all of the guests. Being tattooed is done immediately, although the pain is still present. A significant part of the Merging is a "procession" of sorts for all of the guests to see the couple's tattoos.
Finally, there is usually a large party where the couple receives gifts and a fancy dinner is served. It is not uncommon for many embarrassing stories to be created on a night of a Merging.

Components and tools

The Council requires a document to be signed both by the couple and the attending member to ensure the Merge's legal and recognized validity.

Participants

The families and friends can attend the Merge. However, only a Council member is required to be in attendance to witness the Merge. Typically, it is a large event, and many people are invited to witness the Merge.

Observance

Merges are usually observed in the sacred space of the followers' religion. If the witches are of different religions, the spot is chosen and blessed by witches from both religions. The date is inconsequential, but is usually in the evenings or on the weekends, so as not to interfere with the work week.

Related Ethnicities

• Witches of United Britannia and Hibernia