Broken Antler Fen In a beautiful world

Maia paused, but as soon as Wraen gestured, leapt up to join her on the rock.  She sat down close and leaned against her a minute, her tail thumping briefly with happiness.  First off, it's good to be back!  She smiled, but then her expression fell.  Second, I... found where Terance lived.  His mate was still there.  She, um....  Maia paused, took a breath.  She said he died.

Despite having had the entire trip home with it, it wasn't any easier this time when she said it.  She got it out clearly enough, but when she looked at Wraen, she did so hesitantly.  Because it didn't matter how much she'd trained herself on holding it together, if Wraen lost it, she was going to lose it too.

She always seemed to get the worst news.