Awiyaw: Husband to Lumnai, marries Madulimay due to tribal customs.
Lumnai: Awiyaw's first wife, unable to bear children.
Madulimay: Awiyaw's second wife, whom he marries as per tribal rules.
Plot Overview
Awiyaw and Lumnai have been married for a long time.
Due to Lumnai's inability to bear children, Awiyaw must marry Madulimay.
On the night of the wedding, Awiyaw invites Lumnai to join the celebration.
Lumnai, the best dancer in the tribe, refuses to attend.
Key Themes
Love vs. Tradition
Despite their feelings, Awiyaw and Lumnai must adhere to the customs of their tribe.
The tribe's tradition requires men to have children to carry on their name.
Heartfelt Conversation
Awiyaw and Lumnai have a deep discussion about their feelings.
They both still love each other but must separate due to tribal pressure.
They agree that if Awiyaw's second marriage fails, he will return to Lumnai.
Climax of the Story
Lumnai decides to attend the wedding, not to celebrate but to stop it.
When the moment arrives, she lacks the courage to intervene and walks away instead.
Conclusion
Lumnai retreats to the mountains, reflecting on her love for Awiyaw and the pain of their separation.
The story concludes with Lumnai recalling their shared memories.
Quote
Michael Springer: "To truly understand and be able to share love, it takes sacrifice of oneself. It's realizing that love isn't about you or what you can get. It's about you and what you have to give."
Closing
The story illustrates the tension between personal love and societal expectations.