The way she says it is so very final, and specific. 'Gone' could just mean they were here in Paradisa and then left, and any child would still be broken up about that. But Anne has seen orphans, and this lurking in dark places in the city is a very common habit, it seems.

"Sweet child, I am ever so sorry." Her sadness seems nearly overwhelming. She almost blurts out, I have lost a child of my own, but even still is aware enough to stop herself. That's not something to say to a girl of this age, not by a queen.

"You are not remaining alone here, are you?"