Inside the temple, the priests lit the first lamp and began the ceremony. Unmarried women walked to the back of the temple with their lamps. There, a large man-made pond awaited, surrounded by rocks. Many men were gathered by the pool. Some were engaged to the women, while others were their lovers. A few women without partners hoped the goddess would bless them with a glimpse of their future husbands.
Naimishi, Alora, Silas, and Hiraan stood under a peepal tree, waiting for Vasilka to finish her task. "Alora, why didn't you light the lamp? You even decorated your lamp with peacock birds," Naimishi asked, looking curious at Alora before shifting her gaze to Hiraan, who was busy exchanging looks with Silas. These three! Naimishi shook her head. She figured if Alora had lit the lamp, she would have got a confirmation whether Hiraan would tie the knot with Silas or Alora.