Chapter 154 - Dashed Expectations of an Uncle

Ella and Jake were sitting on a little seat in the camp when Masque arrived. As Masque approached, the two, with solemn expressions, looked up from their profound chat. He bent respectfully before speaking, "My queen, I bring news” he said, Ella studied him, her gaze narrowing. "What news?" she asked, sounding hesitant. Masque looked around to make sure nobody else could hear. “Thank God Luke isn't here," he said in a low voice, “But I just found out that Lydia Brannon's newborn son passed away” Ella gasped and her fingers went to her mouth as her eyes grew wide with disbelief. “What?" she murmured in a hushed tone, her disbelief clear. Masque gave a mournful nod. “Indeed, your grace. It's true. The word is getting around the seven clans quite quickly. The burial rites took place just yesterday” Ella felt a wave of terrible sadness sweep over her, and her eyes dropped to the floor. Though she had never been especially fond of Lydia, she would never have wanted her or h