IX
Chabawck twenty years earlier.When the Bawck entered the tent, Deirane had already undressed. At first, Jalia thought it was a new game and was going to imitate her. Deirane had dissuaded her. Festor was right, although she was simple-minded, when it came to feeling the emotions of others, she was second to none. She was a real pearl, a gem that was nestled deep in this Stoltzin's mind. She had sensed the girl's distress at the ordeal ahead of her and had reacted accordingly.
Deirane was too poor to afford underwear. She only had her dress on her. Jalia had helped her remove it, then used it to drape over her lower back and hips. She had helped her to sit up, and had finally hugged her, exposing only her back to view.
Contrary to what she feared, the Bawck paid only a distracted atte
