Arrow Lake the caretaker

stigmata had grown so accustomed to the gargoyle's dutiful presence and his every meager nuance, that he could identify the male's approach by sound alone. he didn't need to look to know it was mahler there suddenly beside him, and he drew them to a stop before even turning to look at the strapping stone warden. he studied his solemn second for a beat, unable to admit out loud that he had failed their shared brother, but he conveyed it as best he could in silence.

as his gaze drifted down mahler's body, searching for anything out of place, the general's expression turned appreciative before eventually settling on a somber look of gratitude. mahler is well, and he is still here. "brother," he sighed, letting his posture fall dramatically. he is always here. "if you go missing, at least have the decency to take me with you."

giving his ruffled mane a shake, the ophidian wolf reclined to his haunches. "we must speak about the vale," he then said vaguely, staring pointedly at mahler's sleek face, as if to catch him provoked.