The shock of her short-time mate, dead . . . it was nearly too much for Chickadee to bear, suffocating her almost fully. What kind of cruel world would do this to her, to Hael? God, and she had been so confident in the future of a life with him . . .
She flitted from place to place, lost in her grief. Alone with her sorrow. Overwhelmed by shock. It was only when a male’s voice split the silence of Chickadee’s world that she could claim to be aware of anything.
He set alarm bells ringing in the mourning lass’ head instantly. The look in his eyes, the way he carried himself. . . . This man was dangerous, and she knew she had to get away. She didn’t speak a word, just turned and fled, trying to will her wings to work. She hadn’t used them since before Hael’s death. How long had she been wandering? She desperately tried to feel anything, felt them begin to unfurl. Fear blossomed in Chickadee’s chest, her brain screaming not to look back.

"SO IF YOU CAN’T FIND ME, LOOK TO THE WESTERN SKY!"