Kiaya Khátún is of the happy family circle.' 'You didn't marry her!' said Richard sharply. 'No! No,' said Lymond soothingly. 'All but the ceremony. We hope to have the four children legitimized.' For a moment, with sinking heart, Richard believed him. Then he saw the look on Lymond's face, and found he could bear it even less. He got to his feet, stiff and unslept, with all the weariness of the night suddenly upon him. 'At least,' he said, 'you are back.
Kiaya Khátún is described as belonging to a happy family circle, implying she is well-loved and part of a close-knit family. However, there is tension and uncertainty surrounding Lymond's relationship with her, as Richard is skeptical about the truth of their marriage status.
"You didn't marry her!" Richard accuses sharply, but Lymond gently reassures that they only missed the formal ceremony and plan to legitimize their children. Richard momentarily believes him but quickly senses the deception, feeling exhausted and resigned as he recognizes the strained dynamics between them.
