𝐇𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧 (CLOSED IM GOING TO REWRITE THE STORY)

Chapter 9

Chapter 9: The Shattering News

The days had grown colder, the bleak winter skies mirroring the heaviness in Katherine and Jane's hearts. Despite their best efforts to stay strong, the constant fear for Thomas's safety weighed on them. Anne Boleyn's ghost continued to appear, offering guidance and comfort, but even her spectral presence could not assuage their growing dread.

One evening, as a fierce storm raged outside, a messenger arrived at Hampton Court, his clothes drenched and his expression grave. Katherine, Jane, and Maria were gathered in Katherine's chambers, discussing their next move when the knock came. Maria answered the door, her heart sinking at the sight of the somber figure.

"Katherine, Jane," Maria called softly, her voice trembling. "There's a message from the front."

Katherine felt a cold wave of fear wash over her. She took the sealed letter with shaking hands, her eyes meeting Jane's for a brief, heart-wrenching moment before she broke the seal. The room seemed to close in around them as she read the words, each one a dagger to her heart.

> To the Howard Family,
>
> It is with deepest regret that we inform you of the passing of Thomas Howard. He fought bravely and with great honor, but he fell in battle against the enemy. His courage and sacrifice will not be forgotten.
>
> Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of great sorrow.
>
> Sincerely,
> Commander William Stafford

Katherine's vision blurred with tears as she read the last words, her knees giving way as she collapsed into a nearby chair. Jane let out a choked sob, rushing to her sister's side. "No, it can't be true! Not Thomas!"

Katherine held Jane tightly, both of them shaking with grief. "He's gone, Jane. Our brother is gone."

Maria, her own eyes filled with tears, knelt beside them. "We must remember his bravery, his strength. He fought for what he believed in."

The loss of Thomas was a devastating blow, a wound that seemed too deep to ever heal. The sisters clung to each other, their tears mingling as they mourned the brother they had loved so dearly.

In the days that followed, the court seemed to move in a haze around them. The whispers of sympathy and condolences from courtiers felt distant and hollow. Katherine and Jane found solace only in each other and in their determination to honor Thomas's memory.

---

### Scene: Anne's Consolation

One night, as Katherine lay awake, staring at the ceiling, Anne's ghost appeared beside her bed. This time, her presence was softer, more sorrowful.

"Katherine, I am so sorry for your loss," Anne said, her voice filled with genuine empathy. "Thomas was a brave and noble man."

Katherine turned to face her, tears glistening in her eyes. "Why did he have to die, Anne? It feels so unfair."

Anne's ghostly hand reached out, though it could not touch. "War is cruel and merciless. But you must take his courage and let it fuel your resolve. Use his memory to strengthen your fight against those who seek to destroy you."

Katherine nodded, her heart aching but her resolve hardening. "I will, Anne. I will fight for him, for Jane, for all of us."

Anne's form flickered, her eyes filled with a mix of sorrow and pride. "Remember, you are not alone. I am with you, and so is his spirit. Stay strong, Katherine."

As the ghost faded, Katherine felt a renewed sense of purpose. The pain of losing Thomas was a wound that would never fully heal, but she would channel that pain into strength. She would continue to uncover the truth, protect her family, and honor her brother's memory with every step.