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Galdori Marriage

Arranged marriages are extremely common in Gior, often used as more of a political move rather than based on anything more base like emotions or feelings. Relationships based on love can often be seen as a sign of weakness, and are severely judged by society. This isn't to say love doesn't exist, but it is not a public announcement. If there is no logical gain to be had in the marriage, often the couples parents will not give blessing for the union to go ahead.

The act of getting married is a very spiritual and serious affair. The man and woman are not to see each other for a period of ten days prior to the ceremony, and can only correspond via written letters or the use of a go-between messenger. Both parties are expected to wear white, gold and silver. A splash of color is deemed 'tasteless.' Often both the bride and the groom are dusted with quartz to give them an almost ethereal glow.

At the ceremony, the couple are reunited within a church or outdoors under the open sky. It must be held in a venue that is either holy, or is able to be seen by the Gods above. After a brief prayer to Imaan, officiated by the most Illuminated priest they have, the bride must perform the Ba Brieth, and summon the rains to ensure a lucky and successful marriage. The groom must present the Matriarch of the brides family with a gift. It does not have to be of high monetary value, but it must hold meaning. After this, the Priest will read from the Book of Light and bless the union under the entire Circle, with a specific focus on Imaan. The couple will gift each other something that signifies their union, after which the ceremony is complete.

Post the ceremony, a feast is held with dancing and copious amounts of alcohol. The newly weds are showered with money or gifts, and are expected to share a ceremonial cup of Keleissk with the honorary leading family guest of honor--usually a Council member--before retiring to their wedding bed. It is absolutely imperative to consummate the marriage before going to sleep, regardless of how drunk or tired the couple may be. This is usually witnessed by someone selected by the bride and groom, though in more modern times this witnessing of the event has become less rigid.