Soljor nodded. Magnus had so far proven to be a very trustworthy stallion. He was glad he didn’t have to watch his mares so closely around the younger male. He could trust them to his care for short periods of time. Perhaps he should head back out to the Crossing. He nodded as Dogun processed the predator information and he agreed.

“Agreed,” Soljor said. “I’m hoping that I’m wrong. Or at least… this creature isn’t as fearsome as I’m afraid it is. Let me know if you or your second spots something. I’ll do the same.” He could hear the strain in Dogun’s voice. It wasn’t his place to ask. His thoughts do turn to his daughters once again.

“Dogun,” Soljor looked at the pony. “I am glad you came to the Inlet. I don’t know why, but I never felt like the stallion before you was going to be trustworthy. Maybe it was because the stallion who owned the Bay before me told all his mares to go there when he abandoned the land. Also, I’m glad you’re still around. I would like to create a formal alliance with you. Beyond just trading intelligence across the lines.”

He glanced back at the Bay.

“In a year’s time, or maybe a little before if ready, I would like to entrust one of my daughters to your care, as a symbol of such an alliance,” Soljor said. Daughters were excellent symbols of good will. Bonds of blood were stronger than mere words. Dogun had so far proven himself to be a trustworthy stallion. He’d held the Inlet for the year. “What would you say to this?”