“And the dogs, does your father know?’

“Oh no, and if he continues bragging in circles he’s going to ruin my Garden. Years ago, my sister received a poodle pup as a gift. My father fell in love with it once he found out it was a pure blooded hunter. So he sneaked into another’s yard and secretly bred her. The ensuing puppies and Catherine whelped together. One day I tossed Catherine a sweet and the dogs pounced on her and caused her to bleed. I was furious. I kept this up during spring and then, one day it happened; she ferociously fought back and I rewarded her with more sweets. And then the training began. I wanted her protection from the wild dogs on our lands and soon the largest cur wouldn’t draw near. When she reached about 15 stones she killed her first dog, he tried to mount her. Why not, they grew up together right? But Catherine would have noting to do with it and performed what I call her Mantis Move”.
“I witnessed that one tonight, from both of you.”
“How are you at persuasion?” She asked.