The four days passed quickly. Asphodel read the books and caught up with the other novices.
Then came the day of the ceremony.
The girls dressed in their white robes and tied their scarlet sashes around their waists. Shimilla stood with her arms out at her sides and twirled around.
“How do I look, Asphodel? Is my hair tidy? My sash isn’t too tight, is it?”
Asphodel laughed. “You look lovely, Shimilla. Stop worrying.”
A tap sounded at the door, and Shimilla opened it.
“Are you girls ready?” Sister Mony stood at the threshold.
The pair nodded and followed the Sister to where the young men waited. Falling in behind Sister Mony, they processed to the temple.
Upon entering, they took their seats in the row right in front of the altar and the huge statue of Sylissa. Asphodel looked aroun
