Emberflame Ridge schneemusik

mahler wanted the respect he had been denied on the borders, and here was his chance to take it. that the boy was leaving was not enough; his very presence was a burr in the gargoyle's paw. and so he gave chase, breaking into a gentle lope that carried him through the trees.
there was not true ill-intent behind mahler's actions. he did not wish to hurt mali, for maiming children was not a pastime belonging to him. but it seemed truthful that the boy knew nothing of dominance, and mahler wanted, at least, that lesson for himself.