Swiftcurrent Creek Out in the garden

as it had with the ascent of caiaphas to the head of grimnismal, the tension within the creek grew. mahler did not know the details, nor did he wish to know such things; he busied himself with patrols and hunting, the drying of herbs, musing over what it was he would do if swiftcurrent splintered. he decided he would ask chusi and her brood with him; as the youngest pups, there was no doubt in the musiker's mind that they would be in need of protection.
and what of the woman aria, and their discussion? mahler sensed she did not wish to leave; therefore he spent no more time considering her for that purpose, instead moving to a brief recollection of the unsaid things behind her ice-white gaze. and then he shook her from his head, setting off at a brisk clip toward the creek.
dismayed to see that he was not alone, mahler watched impassively the featherpelted creature, willowy beneath hues of smooth gunmetal and burnt cinnamon. and while he would have preferred to be alone, the newcomer and her pleasant appearance were enough to bring an introductory chuff from mahler. if he must suffer company, at the very least he could find interest in perusing the stranger's unique features.