The Bearer Of Bad News

Ely’s voice is peppy and Zeke’s heart is speared with an icicle of guilt as his stomach flip-flops through the sudden rollercoaster of emotions. True, he had not liked Scald, maybe he even hated the guy, but it was only because he loves his sister. Now, as she rounds the corner to take in his blood-soaked appearance, her voice turning from lively to something more… uncertain, his ears slick back and his features drop into sorrow.

Duel-toned eyes meet her gaze with a steady intensity as his jaw works, willing the words to form that will strip away yet another thing from her life. Clearing his throat, he gently says, “Ely… there was an accident. Scald…” Voice falters and falls, the bitter taste of ash filling his mouth as he haltingly continues, “He saved many lives.” It wasn’t a bold face lie, his death had bought some time for the others to attack and Ely deserves to think of Scald as a hero forevermore.

Ezekiel swallows thickly in a suddenly dry throat and he carefully folds his haunches, seating himself so that most of his weight on his uninjured left leg as he says, “I’m so sorry.” He prepares for the assault of questions, ready to give answers where he can to hopefully bring her some closure.


"Ezekiel Saxe"