Welcome Home.

He wasn't certain how long he waited, until he heard the very quiet sound of soft paws. One of the harshest lessons learnt to him was hearing the faintest hint of his Master needing him. A moments delay meant pain, and his senses had been honed to hear the slightest whisper of movement. He rose, biting back a wince. His own muscles were stiff and sore. He did not know how long he had ran with the Lady Hazel on his back, nor how long he had sat beside her waiting for death. His body protested it on, but at least his belly didn't ache too terribly. He rose, stretching carefully, knowing the wisdom in doing so. Then he left his corner of the den and found the Lady Asla sitting be each the sun.

He was loath to disturb her, she sat there, perfect in her body. Her slim frame was built on powerful muscles, and the subtle accent of her body glowed beneath the morning sun. She looked as regal as her status said she was. Not that he had ever doubted it for a moment.

He seated himself in the shadows of the dens entrance, content to wait patiently there, watching over her until she needed him. Assuming already his position as her guard. Ignoring the hunger of his belly, and the ache of his wound. They were silly, unimportant things next to the honour of serving her.