Outlander Book Club: A Breath of Snow and Ashes Chapter 118 breakdown

Just the Outlander chapter

The chapter starts with Lord John Grey and Jamie meeting in private. They are now on opposite sides of the war, something that Jamie and John aren’t too happy about. However, that doesn’t stop them from being friends in this moment.

John starts by sharing his fears that Bree will tell people about who William is. Jamie keeps looking out for his son in the crowd below but doesn’t see him. He also knows that William can’t learn the truth. He’s not worried about Bree saying anything, and I don’t think he would be even if Brianna was staying.

It is what I love about the TV show more. Jamie told Bree, showing that trust. Sure, Bree was supposed to be going to the future when he shared this bit of knowledge, but it was still Jamie showing his trust in her. Plus, it hasn’t been brought up as a concern since.

John is also concerned that William will see Jamie and figure everything out. It’s normal for John to be concerned. This isn’t just about the truth coming out, but also about what it would mean for William if everyone else learned the truth. He would lose his titles and inheritance.

In the end, Jamie shares why he is there. He needs a gem and John can’t ask why. What he wants is the sapphire Jamie gave John at Ardsmuir. John won’t give that up, though. Instead, he gives John a ring that belonged to Hector, the man John loved at Culloden. This is a huge gesture, showing us all what Jamie means to John compared to his deceased partner.