<blockquote>Finally, things started to make sense again, and Marsh felt that they were all on the same again. It had never been his intention to challenge Indru, not in any fashion, and hopefully his new leader would come to understand that he had gained a truly loyal warrior in Marsh.
That loyalty was under few conditions, and common sense was one, but Marsh would not have submitted to Indru if he did not think the wolf worthy.
The acceptance was swift and crystal clear to Marsh, who remained perfectly calm as Indru took his muzzle in his teeth. The word was superfluous, but Marsh appreciated it nevertheless, for he would have to come to terms with their necessity once again. At least his leader understood the value of brevity. Released from Indru's jaws and given space, Marsh slowly stood, feeling pride and purpose wash over him even as he kept his stature decidedly below his superiors'. Perhaps this would be the last time he would ever have to find a new home; perhaps he could serve this pack for the rest of his years. It was a pleasing thought.
Now initiated, Marsh took a few steps forwards, crossing the mental threshold between neutral territory and what was now home. Unless promptly given a duty, he would take it upon himself to get deeply acquainted with the new lands, for he had never set foot inside Swift River before save to deliver Indru's youngest sister. It was one of the few areas that he had been shut out of, and now was the land he was most obliged to know. Aware of the possibility that Corinna or Indru would wish to prolong this encounter, he awaited any sign of dismissal, enjoying being at ease and no longer an outsider. It was miraculous how quickly things could change.</blockquote>