351 - The Qualities Necessary

Kyriala looked at Benthasas's face, then down at the split ring lying so innocent in his gloved palm, as if it were a tiny, poisonous, jewel spider.  She could feel mama's eyes on her, and the aunties, and Hikinias and Ormanas, even as they pretended to be paying attention to Laisa, preparing to sing the Lament.  She could feel the pressure of their desires, the aunties and mama to see her