Swiftcurrent Creek the second theory

after his interaction with the last stranger who had come over their borders, mahler had remained hypervigilant. and yet he was aware that winter was upcoming; without more wolves, the children might be in danger of hunger. or starvation, of which he did not like to think. his own efforts had become rote; mahler found himself along the scent-marked border strengthening swiftcurrent's claim when the dark-tangled woman approached.
the gargoyle did not start; his ash-tipped hackles bristled and he stepped closer but did not threaten her. his stance was inquiring, however; mahler leveled his hard lavender eyes upon her in silence.