Feed the flames

Caladia is quick to get her paws back underneath her and she nods to Thorn that she is okay. Carefully she picks up her ‘sword’ listening to her cousin’s instructions and nodding along. Legs move slightly away from her body as the young girl adopts her defensive stance, lowering her center of gravity. Mismatched eyes keenly watch each and every movement Thorn makes and she mirrors him, squaring her shoulders, slicking her ear back, and lifting her tail until it is aligned with her spine. She watches him swing his own sword and her eyes round in wonder at how controlled his action is.

Nodding to his words, Callie attempts her own swing and, based on everything he taught her, the pup’s second attempt is far more controlled. It isn’t flawless but there is potential for the girl. Once the impromptu lesson finishes, the little girl moves to the alpaca and deposits her ‘sword’, into one of packs the creature is carrying. As they continue to gather sticks, Caladia says, “Mom is going to teach me to use a sword one day! Are you going to have a sword like your dad one day?”

They gather sticks and branches until the packs on the alpaca’s sides are full to almost bursting. Thorn then gathers the lead rope and the two pups return with to the castle with their offerings.


"Caladia Carpathius"