Blackfeather Woods It's not like you're unpredictable

Wildfire made no reply, though she felt a heat sweep through her at the threat. She knew Thuringwethil and the rest of Drageda would avenge her, if they could, but at what cost? She hadn't thought that far ahead. The thought of the commander or—god forbid—one of their children getting hurt while trying to rescue her made her blood turn to ice.

A despairing thought crossed her mind: would it be better if they didn't come for her? Her family would suffer for her loss, yet at least they wouldn't be in any danger. A little cry spilled from Wildfire's lips at the thought. She didn't want her loved ones to risk getting hurt, so escape was the only option—that, or remaining a prisoner here until they surely killed her.

All logic and reason fled. Instincts took over and Wildfire darted suddenly, heart and feet both pounding as she attempted to flee through the grim woods.