“The kitchen cat was dead, and Morrigan was to blame. She didn’t know how it happened, or when.”

The opening lines of Chapter 1 establish Morrigan Crow’s position in the world, her hometown of Jackalfax. All misfortune is framed as her fault, even if it is impossible for her to have caused it. This constant blame will lead to her escaping her current life and pursuing a new one in Nevermoor.

“She could imagine it. She had imagined, a hundred times over, how it would feel to be liked instead of feared. To see people smile instead of flinch when she walked into a room.”

Mr. Jones (Ezra Squall) tries to offer Morrigan the world she long dreamed of—a world where no one fears her. However, he cannot give her this world because he works toward his own selfish goal, though he appears benevolent.

“Perhaps your announcement might have been better received at a less sensitive time. For instance, the day after my only grandchild is due to tragically leave us at the age of eleven.”

Morrigan’s grandmother foreshadows the later revelation that she is the only Crow family member who cares about Morrigan. It also foreshadows the revelation of her signing Morrigan’s contract to help her escape Jackalfax.