A black bird emerged from the top of her chest and flew away. It carried with it all the shadows she held so dear.

A blue bird followed. Lingering for a moment then turned skyward and away it flew.

A gray bird then struggled to be set free. She clutched at it, but the bird found its strength and left her too.

A red bird emerged, crimson .
Dark, vibrant, wild.

She waited for it to take flight, like the others, but it dug it's talons into her skin and let out a long piercing cry.

It was here to stay.