The Heartwood Never opened myself this way.

Two days had passed since Cirilla had crossed the Sunspire range and descended into the lowlands. Chakliux and his companion would be miles ahead of her, no doubt. She'd slowed her pace since her reunion with the seal-hunter and the resulting disappointment, but as she neared the territory claimed by Moonglow she felt shame weave its way into her soul

Kukutux would not reject her, she thought, but her dispersal had been a wordless one. It felt awkward to return to the Moonwoman and ask for another chance, and with her confidence dashed by discovery she no longer felt as bold as she once did.

The swallow lurked in the lands surrounding, trying to convince herself to be brave.