The Sunspire snake eater

The attack connected, and Veteran's heart soared. Utilizing the technique he had been taught, his blow had landed solidly against Germanicus, and although he would likely be sore tomorrow, he felt nothing but delight in the moment. 

Germanicus's chuckle elicited a wag of Veteran's tail, and he stepped back to give the Imperator space. His tail wagged all the more excitedly at the offer of another round. Despite the long day of travel, his energy would not wane until Germanicus tired of him and sent him on his way.