there.

Perhaps now I can do exactly that. After all, it would resolve all of her problems. Moving to such a remote place would put her well beyond the reach of her vindictive stepchildren. It would also allow her a fresh new start.

She went to her desk and took out pen and paper. It would take considerable time for a letter to reach her aunt. It would be best to get started and allow Zerelda knowledge of what had happened. She didn't yet know of her brother's death.

For the first time in years, Lydia felt a spark of hope. She glanced across the room to where her violin awaited her. Forgoing the letter momentarily, Lydia crossed to the instrument and lovingly took it in hand. She tested the stringsteam should be able to cope.

One player to keep an eye on is forward Cody Hodgson, who finally gets his chance on the opening-night roster after being the 10th overall pick in 2008. He will play big minutes and is expected to contribute right away, and may prove to be the biggest addition to a squad that was one win away from winning Lord Stanley’s mug.

Big question: Did the Flames do enough in the off-season to contend for a playoff position in the tough West?

Outlook: GM Jay Feaster’s first off-season was a highly uneventful one, though he added two solid defenders in Hannan and Butler. Hannan is strong in his own end and displays great leadership qualities, while Butler has the ability to play an effective role on