This section focuses solely on the BETA in a bonded circle, their expected duties, differences according to element and also explains how they are 'formed' as all Dragels are born Submissive. Information on the RHEYO (elected Beta) will be in the next chapter.


BETA


The Beta in a Dragel mated circle holds a position as Second-In-Command in a Bonded Circle. They hold authority over all lesser dominant mates and can override the Submissive's authority if necessary. They answer to the Alpha and the Submissive for their actions.

A Beta's duty is first and foremost to keep the Alpha and the Submissive together, as well as mediating between all other Bonded. They provide stability and a more approachable middle ground for their submissive and other Bonded. While the Alpha and Submissive have their own bonds, the Sub and other Bonded can 'test the waters' through their Beta. The Beta also handles all lesser matters that do not require an Alpha's explicit permission or attention, thereby sharing the workload and maintaining a happy medium.

Until a Pareya(Protector) is added to the mateship circle, the Beta will be protective of both the Alpha and the Submissive, even though the Alpha will be at the forefront. They are likely to insist on the Alpha's wellbeing and cooperation, and are not afraid to call them out if a situation becomes complicated or stressful. The Beta is often heralded as the negotiator in a Circle and they take their position very seriously.

A Beta also possesses the unique position and authority to challenge the Alpha in regards to the Submissive, whether on a personal matter, a social incident or a pending punishment. They can also serve as proxy for the Alpha in certain legal matters and social functions.

In the absence of an Alpha (such as the Alpha being away on business or tending to another matter), the Beta takes charge and assumes all authority until the Alpha's return. Beta's also have the option of hyphenating their name for legal purposes when a bonding contract is signed.

A Beta's possessiveness can be described as a "very short leash" for said Submissive and all other Bonded. To relieve the stress of this, repeated displays of trust and acceptance, allow the Beta to gradually feel at ease and allow a longer 'leash'. This can be done through the Alpha deliberately sharing the workload before it becomes too much, or for the Beta to be more involved in handling inter-circle disputes.

If overlooked, Betas can withdraw into themselves and suffer great emotional and mental distress. They crave to be helpful and useful, specifically for the Alpha and Sub.

In turn, the Submissive is able to ease their worrying about the Alpha, due to the Beta's support and company. They often reward the Beta with a specific pleasure or insurance that the Alpha and Beta can spend some personal time together.

The Beta always shows their marks from both the Alpha and the Submissive in plain sight, usually on the neck or the shoulders.

Physically, the Beta is always taller than the Alpha, oftentimes by an entire 'head and shoulders' worth of height.


COURTING RITUAL (THE GIFT OF SCALES) AND GENERAL INFORMATION


Betas usually follow similar courting rituals to that of the Alpha and tend to court the Submissive during the same time period. They may discuss what gifts to present beforehand, with the Alpha they've agreed to submit to, so that the Submissive does not receive duplicates. Their courting style tends to be more realistic and less romantic.

A fully-courted Submissive is a dragel with both the Alpha and the Beta courting at the same time. A regular or common courting, is when a single Intended seeks to become Bonded.

A common gift between Intended is the typical exchanging of the hair and wing scales, to form the bonding jewelry for all Bonded. The hair of the Submissive is spun into a flexible, soft cord and wing scales are threaded onto it either as single plates(beads) or fashioned into a pendant and then strung on the cord. The Submissive will always wear their bonded jewelry and it is always spun from the Alpha's hair. The Beta's hair is never used. In most cases, the bonded jewelry is often in the form of a necklace, but it can also be worn as a bracelet, anklet, belly-chain, hair jewelry, headband or earrings, depending on the number of scales and the Submissive's personal preference.

Once a young Dragel is confirmed as a Beta, they may accept a ritual piercing to the top of the ear to mark their status or a symbolic tattoo (most Betas prefer wing tattoos). Both are usually performed by the Sire or Mentor and done over a period of six months, including the healing process. Betas tend to have a higher pain threshold than the Alpha and they are usually admitted into light physical training to develop and maintain a lean physique. The majority of their height appears during puberty and their temperament is very accepting, calm and understanding. It takes something of significance to upset them.

Scales are usually exchanged during the first intercourse between Bonded, hence the title of "Bonding Night". The Beta will only receive the Alpha's scale during their first, private night together—without the Submissive. This cements and reinforces the Alpha-Beta bond and allows them to better understand and appreciate each other. If the Submissive has accepted both Bonded at this time, then it will begin the search for a third Bonded while the Alpha and Beta have some time alone.

If the mateship is fragile while expanding, then scales may not be exchanged until the Submissive feels comfortable and the Alpha will reflect this by withholding their scale until they feel the time is appropriate. In some situations, if the Alpha is not present during as an approving spectator during a Bonding Night, then the Beta may take their place.

As the Second-In-Command of a mated circle, the Beta handles most of the inner-circle interaction and drama. They are typically very-easy going and slow to anger, allowing them to handle all inner-circle disputes with ease and thus leaving the Alpha open to handle more important matters. They are often able to mediate between the Submissive and other Bonded, especially in presenting and witnessing proposed compromises. The Beta also holds the right to order the Alpha and Submissive to communicate clearly between each other—and see to it that they do so.

They also publicly and visibly back the Alpha at all social functions where the entire Circle is required to present. While the Alpha takes the Submissive's right side, the Beta walks to the left. When accompanying the Alpha, the Beta walks to the right.

A Beta is expected to know social history and hierarchy, as well as formal traditions and customs in addition to current trends in Dragel society. It is their duty to reinforce and accent the Alpha's presentation and representation of their circle and Bonded.

Betas generally do not wager or engage in social games, though they are not exempt from social functions. While the Beta does not actively engage in the social climbing, if the Alpha is unable to do so, then the Beta will step in.

Also, in the situation of two bickering Alphas or Submissives, who cannot reach an agreement, the Betas are usually called to settle it, so the dispute can be bloodless. Gheyos can also negotiate sufficient and accepted compromises, while they may be bloodless, they are often violent or extensively humiliating, depending on the situation presented.

During the Hunting/Courting process, the Beta is often close at hand, while the Alpha mingles, so as not to scare away any Intended. The Beta's presence is something of a quick-screening process, to judge whether the Alpha will be receptive to a new Intended or whether they will need to run interference while the Submissive is courting.

A Beta can accept a new Bonded into the circle without the Alpha's permission and participation if both the Intended and Submissive are willing. This is helpful if an Alpha cannot attending the Hunting Season due to necessary obligations. If the Alpha is not present, then the Beta fulfills the Alpha's role. If the Alpha should chose to accept the new Bonded later, they will bite directly over the Beta's claiming mark and the authority will transfer over to them. The Beta will then place an additional mark at another time.

When the Submissive selects an Intended that is not well-received by the Alpha, they can petition the Beta to accept the new Bonded. The Beta is then free to mark the Intended for claiming and actually claim them in the Alpha's stead if necessary, without worry of repercussion. The Beta is able to hold a neutral position between Alpha and Submissive during controversial points and as a result, they reserve the right to keep their opinion to their own self, if necessary. The Beta is a natural mediator and negotiator, but they can reserve the right to withhold their opinion and deliberation in inner circle matters if it will complicate things.

A Beta's duty is to monitor the Alpha's pride and ensure that it does not suffer from things that can be prevented or avoided altogether. Reputation and honor are considered valuable assets. When a Beta gives their word in place of the Alpha, it is equally fully binding and contracting in every way, shape and form as if it were the Alpha, itself.

If a Beta is born of two elements they will train both sides and will usually choose later in life, based on the elements of their Alpha or Submissive. Betas also have extra study and educational options available to them, because they are so easy to work with and delight in learning many things. One example of this is Patrick Kalizk in the original TBDH fic, who is known for having pleasure skills, specifically, talents in knifeplay, rope bondage and bloodplay. He dedicated himself to these particular areas after taking over the duties of overseeing his circle's Gheyos.

An Alpha will usually tend to the general, overall well-being of their Circle, especially if the Circle is larger than ten. When this occurs, the Beta adopts more responsibility and may oversee a specific ranking, either the Pareyas or the Gheyos. For example, Patrick Kalzik tends to the Gheyos in the Kalzik circle, to ease the pressure from his Alpha and Submissive.


THE BETA BONDS


The Beta-Submissive bond usually begins on the level of a protective older figure, often someone that the Submissive can freely confide in or seek comfort from. Betas tend to be the quiet friend in the bunch, the one that is the most reliable and dependable. They are usually taller than the Submissive, even if their inheritance has not fully settled. The physical height and differences between a Beta and an Alpha, are the main draw for a Submissive. The Submissive will actively seek a Beta that has a calming effect on them—and that is taller than their accepted Alpha. This friendship and distinction for the Beta is often the foundation for a more personal connection and familiarity between the Beta and Sub.

If the Beta cannot get along with the Submissive's chosen Alpha, then they will refuse the courting and seek another, more suitable match. Since the Submissive tends to the Beta's protective side and encourages the bond between Alpha and Beta, it is important for the Beta to feel a connection between both Alpha and Sub. The Beta is almost always the second Bonded to be included in a circle, generally included after the Alpha.

If a Beta is not found in the formation of a new Circle, then the Submissive and Alpha may experience feelings of incompleteness, depression and irrational bouts of temper and bursts of magic. In trying to protect each other, the Alpha and Beta unknowingly harm each other, convoluting the bond and compounding their problems. The Submissive may feel controlled and stifled, while the Alpha may feel disrespected and unwanted. A Beta as a mediator is extremely necessary. If another Bonded is taken with a rank of either Gheyo or a Pareya, then the need for the Beta is somewhat muted, as the new Bonded will unconsciously try to mediate or distract the Alpha and Submissive from engaging in disagreements and other disputes. Attempting to fill the rank of Beta is exhausting and dangerous, however, and it can result in difficulties for the ranked Bonded later in life.

For example, the Snape Circle in the original fic, has Terius as Draco's Pareya. He is able to keep Severus from smothering Draco unduly, but is at his wits end in keeping Severus calm, attentive and focused, because he is torn between the protective instincts towards his pregnant Submissive and the need to look out for his danger-prone Alpha as well. His protective instincts are being overridden by the need to mediate between the two, which in turn stresses him and channels down to Severus and Draco.

The Submissive chooses their Beta based on an individual who has always been fair and strong—a similar Alpha-make-up, but without the intimacy of friendship. The Submissive is searches for a Beta that makes them feel secure in their position—a lover, rather than a friend, who will show some threads of friendship, but also of possession and protectiveness. During the Alpha and Beta dominance fight, the Beta will settle into their role, only if their positions are reinforced by the Sub. If not, on some rare occasions, the roles reverse and the Alpha's rank may become neutral, shifting to that of a Rheyo (elected Beta), while the Beta will hold the Beta rank. In such cases, a new Alpha is required for the Circle and the head Clan chief of the most dominant element will step forward to see that the ranks and Bonded are properly sorted so they cannot harm each other whether intentionally or instinctively.

If the Submissive should die or be punished through banishment or exile, then the circle may continue to function—awkwardly—but still function and this due to the Alpha-Beta dynamic and the willingness of the other Bonded to work through the difficult time. In the rare instance of a Bonded circle disbanding, the Alpha and Beta remain together and will build a new circle when mutually agreeable to both, retaining their same rankings as before.


BETA-ALPHA BONDS

The Alpha-Beta bond is a special one. The Beta is the first Bonded to challenge the Alpha whenever they are added to a circle. This is their way of testing the stability of the circle and the Alpha-Submissive bond. If the bonds are weak or the circle is found lacking, the Beta will not submit and will withdraw from the claiming or courting. Betas may refuse the option to yield peacefully or instigate a fight to determine the Alpha's worthiness, if they show interest. The Beta can submit peacefully, as is done when the triad have known each other for some time and are comfortable in their ranks. At that point, the Submission is more symbolic and ritual, rather than required, though it does not diminish the ranking or the value of it.

These bonds are completed and sealed if the Alpha and Beta exchange scales. If these bonds are not completed at the time of the initial claiming, then they will require additional time and another dominance fight. The Alpha or Beta has the right to withhold their scales if they feel that the outcome of the original fight was not satisfactory. However, during this testing period, the Alpha and Beta will both be blocked from feeling and sensing their respective Submissive so as not to drag the Submissive into their personal disagreement. If the bond is completed and sealed, then all blocks are automatically removed and all channels revert to their natural courses. A second dominance fight is often bloodier and more brutal than the first. Some Alpha-Beta duos have been known to raze entire cities to the ground before finding a common ground on which to swear loyalty.

The Alpha relies on the Beta as a second-in-command, right-hand helper, especially in matters concerning the Sub. The Beta is happy to be taken under the Alpha's wing when they are content and settled in their rank. An Alpha and Beta will never separate after they have bonded. Even in a circle merging, the Beta will still instinctually respond to the first(bonded) Alpha, which is where the position of Rheyo(elected Beta) becomes necessary.

The Alpha-Beta relationship that functions purely on trust and physical necessity, as Betas are always be larger than the Alpha dominant and while this poses a physical threat, it is a sign of vulnerability and acceptance on the Alpha's side to count it. Betas will only act on their Alpha or Submissive's explicit orders. They pride themselves on being loyal and strong.

For example, in the original version of TBDH, Theo acknowledges that Harry is tired after the first healer visit, but directs Charlie to carry him, as Charlie is older and physically better structured to do so.


BETA-GHEYO BONDS

The Beta-Gheyo Bond is a special and rare one.

While Betas may engage in some sort of routine physical training, they will never be as well-developed as a Dragel with born Gheyo instincts. As such, the Beta understands and acknowledges this, happy to be attentive to Gheyos in their Circle, knowing that what they do and provide is something that they cannot. It is because of this special bond that the Beta reserves a right specifically for them.

Betas, like Gheyos, are not required to remain chaste until their Bonding and will often take a steady lover, either a potential Alpha or a favored Gheyo of their liking. This helps to strengthen their magic and expand their social influence, as having a lover is socially acceptable, especially if of an Alpha or Gheyo ranking.

For example, there is the mutual beneficial relationships of Kyle and Wikhn and Dyshoka and Dahlia, both are Beta-Gheyo pairings that are comfortable and necessary to each individual.


THE BETA'S RIGHTS


The Beta's Rights are a specific set of understandings between a Beta and their Bonded circle.

It allows the Beta to have separate quarters away from the resting room and the right to request nights alone if they feel crowded, exhausted or simply want a change. This also provides the Submissive with a safe haven to return to if they wish to spend time away from the Alpha. When the Submissive claims this Right, the Beta often devotes their attention solely to the Submissive, leaving the care of the circle to the Alpha. During this time, the a favored Pareya might hold the temporary rank of a Beta, if needed. The Beta may take the time to strengthen and reaffirm the Beta-Submissive bond and whatever else their Submissive desires. Proof of their extraordinary focus and concentration will be shown here as the Submissive will literally become the center of their world when this right is invoked.

When Pareya enter the circle, based on their first interactions, the Beta will mediate between the protective instincts and the Submissive's right to test the new boundaries. They are an integral part of the bonding process as they also help to temper the Alpha's absolute authority so that all Bonded can properly adjust to the new addition.

When the Gheyo requests an override of authority from the Beta—to keep from following an Alpha's orders—the Beta can grant this and by doing so, shoulder the blame and responsibility for the Gheyo. They can also provide the same isolation and protection for the Gheyo that an Alpha would for the Submissive.

On the occasion of a Death Duel where the Alpha claims rights to the loss of the 'soul' and therefore excuses the Gheyo from blame when they participate at the Alpha's request, the Beta is exempt and cannot shoulder the 'guilt' from doing so. However, they can postpone the fight indefinitely until the Alpha is found to properly accept the responsibilities—in this way, the Beta is protected by the Alpha from the same loss of 'soul' as the Gheyo.

If the Alpha does not wish to assert their authority over a Gheyo for whatever reason, then the Beta can make the request on their behalf. Gheyos are more receptive to a request, rather than feeling ordered or required to, if the topic is sensitive.


FORMING THE RANK OF BETA


All Dragels are born as Submissives. Specific situations or events trigger the natural responses that shape them into other rankings. A Submissive that shows a tendency to mediate or play peacemaker between other individuals is a strong indicator that they are inclined as a Beta. Further indications of this will be increased physical size and weight, as well as a broader wingspan, if the inheritance is too early to call.

For a Dragel to have Beta tendencies following a natural course they will often shadow a Submissive or Alpha during their younger years, honing and perfecting their instinctive grasp of mediator. They may show their quiet authority by being able to talk down or talk back to an Alpha without incurring the Alpha's wrath or to convince a Submissive to change their mind or take another course of action. They are often the quiet, reliable, dependable ones amongst dragel young and very close to their Sire and bearer.

The Beta tendency is solidified when the dragel has no qualms of standing up to an Alpha and coherently reasoning them down to an acceptable point. The Beta nature can be called out and confirmed in a hostile situation where the Beta is forced to play mediator, fully knowing the stakes. This can be something as simple as a family gathering where tempers are short and political weight is thrown about or something as literal as a hostage situation. Betas can also change slowly overtime without requiring a situation, as their wings would show the change, the coloring shifting from peach and silver to colors respective of their given element. In addition, of course, they will also begin to show height and larger muscle structure.

Betas are the only ranking that does not require specific, brute force to solidify their rank. It is simply a permanent and deliberate shift in personality and magic. It is irreversible. Once a Beta, always a Beta, unless the Beta accepts the title of Rheyo and then there is a possibility that they may develop slightly more dominant instincts than the average Beta, but the ranking will remain the same.


ADDING TO THE CIRCLE


While a Submissive must initiate the first call for a mated circle, the Beta is free, like the Alpha to associate with other Dragels while single, regardless of elements, forms, classes, ranks and age. An Alpha planning their entire circle to the point where they have potential Bonded conversing and forging relationships with another, will usually have a specific Beta in mind, due to the importance of a strong triad for the Circle base. If the Beta disagrees with any potential Bonded, then the Alpha will seek alternatives.

A Beta can proposition a Submissive if they are comfortable enough with each other. This usually happens when the Submissive and Beta have been friends for some time. In such situations, the Submissive will ask the Beta to proposition their preferred Beta. This gives way to the reversal of a Submissive seeking out their potential Bonded and agreeing on the Alpha, wit the Beta's input. Either method is sufficient to solidifying the necessary triad for a new Circle.

Then through a display of physical, magical or intellectual prowess, a Beta will often catch a Submissive's attention through their negotiation skills or neutral temperament.

The Dragel Beta will not die from rejection, though they may become extremely depressed due to their easy-going nature. By showing the more tender side of their personality to a prospective Submissive, if rejected, the rejection is felt as a personal affront and the Beta withdraws to better handle it. They will usually hold to a five year mark of celibacy and solitariness after a rejection. Afterward, they will seek companionship in any form and then continue on.

It is noted that the Gheyo Duels are held every five years. As a Beta's preferred lover is of a Gheyo ranking, the five year cycle is quite convenient.


DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS


The Alpha will generally handle discipline for disruptive and disobedient behavior in their Bonded. The Beta's duty is to stand beside them and reinforce whatever punishment has been declared or to offer a specific comfort when an Alpha is too distraught or upset to do so.

Betas are far more subtle in their anger than any other Bonded ranking. However, their punishments can be just as or even more devious and memorable than that of an Alpha. They may employ the same warning signal as their Alpha—such as a pinch or a twist of the ear or nose—but they will handle each situation quite creatively.

A Beta's perpetual calmness may mask the reality that they are quite upset with their Bonded, if forced to the point where they must hand out a punishment. As such, it may be slightly more severe on account of the reality that it would have taken twice as much disobedience to warrant their physical acknowledgment.

Betas, like Alphas, have the ability to weight their voice with the inherent musical tinge that most Dragels are born with. The musical and magical weight demands that their Bonded listen and obey, especially in the face of potential danger.

Typical signs of a Beta's growing displeasure varies by element and dragel. Common reactions are :

In Earth Dragels, the characteristic golden eyes will steadily turn darker to an almost black. At that point, said Bonded had better run, hide and pray. Occasionally, if the Beta's dominant element is not earth, the eyes will lighten to a very pale gold color.

In Fire Dragels, the Beta will physically restrain the disobedient Bonded and warm their body temperature to a significant degree to warn of their displeasure. Hair or a specific limb may but into flame, but the flames can be any shade of red, orange or yellow. Blue flames are a sign of extreme displeasure and should be avoided at all costs.

In Air Dragels, they would chill or heat the air around the respective Bonded.

In Water Dragels, the Beta would likely pull water away from their Bonded to gain their attention and then continue the matter in more private quarters.

In Storm Dragels, as they tend to be more precise than all other elemental types of dragels, they may employ static electricity and a painful shock, akin to a stinging hex. This varies by dragel and is based on their emotional and magical levels at the time of casting.

In Shadow/Dark Dragels, they will steal their Bonded's voice by stealing their shadow. The matter will then be handled privately.


Thanks for reading! Did that answer your questions about Beta Dragels? If not, review/comment/PM and let me know!