The handle of Sugar’s leash was wrapped tightly around Cuchulainn’s hand, giving her little slack as they walked the busy downtown streets. She barked at an oncoming Rottweiler.
Cuchulainn laughed and shushed her. “This hound could kill you, Sugar!”
She barked again.
“Is it a violent death you want?” said Cuchulainn. “You would leave me to avenge you?”
Bark!
“Sugar, it would be our fault if you die!” he explained. “You really wish me to stop this great hound, who has every right to defend itself?”
She now growled as the Rottweiler came closer.
“You must see reason!” Cuchulainn tugged at her leash to correct her. “We live in a civilized society!”
Sugar quieted herself and looked up at Cuchulainn.
“You will not humiliate me in front of other hounds,” he said. “You represent us! How can we have peace with other houses if you attack and offend them like this?”
She recoiled obediently, but Cuchulainn was getting carried away.
“Do you expect every hound’s master to accept my apologies on your behalf? Why, Sugar, they will think I cannot control you, that I am a meek, spineless man. Is that what you mean to happen?”
Sugar walked with her head down.
“This hound is a glorious beast, a marvel of nature, and it walks proud. Proud, but subordinate! Yes! This hound knows its limits and its place in the world. Whereas you, Sugar, you challenge your meager status, you are defiant, brash, uncouth! You bring shame to us! To me!”
As the other dog passed them, they saw it was hardly more than a puppy. The sight of them excited it, and it danced around, leaping from its owner, barking desperately and trying to nip at Sugar.
“You dare!?” Cuchulainn shouted and dropped the leash.
Sugar sat smartly and watched him wrestle the young Rottweiler to the ground.