The betrothed, both in their mid-20s, captured the hearts of the tight-knit Remiliciggians during their long engagement. Wedding festivities commenced in the early evening, with a small yet captivating procession beginning at the Hotel Berrida where the party was staying. The couple was dressed modestly, traditional wreaths holding more leaves than flowers, but the opulent garments of their invitees more than made up for their humility. Leading the group was a purported dear friend of the bride’s, a skilled mage whose enchanted breath and dancing lights shrouded the assemblage in shimmering rainbows as they walked up the hill.
Locals gathered along the route through Larugil to cheer their cultural darlings, following the local custom of throwing grains and flowers. Traditional music had, apparently, not been chosen for this part of the festivities, but perhaps the organizers foresaw that it would have been drowned out by the enthusiastic citizenry. The atmosphere was ablaze with wonder and excitement, culminating with the gate to the cathedral erupting into blue flame as the wedding-goers passed through. The ethereal glow danced around them as they went, extinguishing only when the gates closed behind them.
Within the chapel's hallowed halls, stones laden with the weight of countless vows, the couple exchanged their own heartfelt promises. After the ring of two bells in the evening - a most traditional hour - they finalized their union and clasped their marital earrings onto one another. Those in attendance reported the vows the couple shared resonated deeply with their souls, with one of the priests purportedly seen shedding a tear at the love and devotion they held for one another. We are only so fortunate to be able to imagine it.
As the evening unfolded, the festivities moved outdoors to a public reception. All were welcomed beneath the famous Mynoggian Cedar in the cathedral cloister, and the aroma of homemade delicacies filled the air. Several attendees brought these dishes themselves, truly encapsulating the spirit of unity and support that defines the Remiliciggian populace. Overall, the celebration was a testament to the gracious nature of the community: once a friend, never again a stranger, whatever the cost might be.
Of special note, in attendance was the esteemed Admiral Fironi Larrike, known for her unwavering dedication to sea and country. She had stood in the position of honor behind Sildam as he took his wife’s hand, compounding the grace and regality that overwhelmed the chapel air. The admiral even offered her ceremonial cutlass to the couple during the cake cutting, in what seemed a welcome but unexpected gesture. The local media was certainly excited for a comment from Larrike, but she offered none; speculation abounds as to the newly-appointed admiral’s relationship with the groom.
Shortly after midnight, the couple said their goodbyes and retired to the hotel. Before dawn the next morning - an early rise for the newlyweds - they embarked on a carriage journey to the Knessari hunting estate in the Cesata foothills. However, their fate soon took an unexpected turn. Shortly after the couple passed through Zastria’s Crossing, they found themselves confronted by a group of vicious robbers intent on causing harm. The threat of armed brigandry is well-known to the people of Remiliciggio amid the Trovhedan unrest, though reports mostly come from deeper into the mountains. That the miscreants would venture so boldly down into the heartlands of Zavve is a grave concern.
Unbeknownst to the assailants, the newlyweds still possessed the weapon with which they had cut their wedding cake the night before - Admiral Larrike’s very own sword. In an unexpected counterattack, they defended themselves against their would-be assailants. Fueled, or so they’ve said, by their love and unyielding bond, they repelled the thieves in triumphant victory. Two of the robbers were left injured on the ground, unable to flee, but three others escaped to the north as the sun rose. Word of the couple’s courage and resourcefulness has already spread down the coast, further endearing them to the masses.
That the story ended well for this beautiful couple does not mean the people of Zavve will get their own happy ending. In fact, for many citizens, tragedy at the hands of brigands such as those the couple faced is beginning to grow more commonplace. Five short years ago, a robbery like this, targeting a well-to-do couple in near-daylight on a main road would never have happened.
It is a peaceful district - or was - but this incident and others like it make it clear that the difficulties faced by Ithero’s neighbors have now spilled across her borders. The admiralty in Calastore may strive to address the situation with care, and that is well enough. But where is the local Naval Police, equipped by the taxpayers of Zavve? Are they not bound to patrol the roads, and investigate this growing unease? Is keeping the peace now too political an issue when Trovhedans are involved? Itherians are owed answers from those in charge of our safety.
