As they moved away from the lapping pool and crashing water, Carthage listened as his daughter spoke. He could hear the anxiety toying with the girl and took a deep breath while his daughter stammered her question. Dark ears twist toward the sounds of life in the forest around them. He ended up being pleasantly surprised by the question and by her taking the initiative to ask it of him.
Carthage chuckled at the words that tumbled from her mouth. It was a low, mirthful sound, not at all mean or disapproving. "I'm not mad, Carrhae. It's a good idea." He spared a small smile for the filly as they walked on. "I was going to wait until you were a little older, but I do think you should join the sparring between your brothers and myself."
The dark bay male turned his head to look more directly at the yearling. Carthage always intended for all of his children to be able to fight and defend themselves, even his daughters though Carrhae might have thought otherwise. This was one stallion who wouldn't hear of his daughters getting pushed around without a fight. "Once we're settled, your training can begin."