Steven's eyes nearly flowed over with how happy he was, straight backed and proud. He would have generations of his line that all bore a mark to prove where they came from, he would be remembered as a slave who had done an outstanding duty, and what more could he ever ask for? He put his hand to his heart and took a knee, addressing first his prince and then his former master.

"Prince Thor, I pledge that I will serve you to my all, for every day left to me, and then I hope for nothing more than to serve you in Valhalla. Prince Loki, I thank you for allowing me to serve you, and know that I will always protect you even if I have not been ordered to do so."

Loki might not be his prince, but he had definitely earned some loyalty and affection for how he had treated this and the lessons learned through observation.

Though Loki was happy to gift Steven away once more, he laid a hand on Thor's shoulder in silent warning not to go too far. "We have tarried among the breeders for too long, they have earned their rest and food, let us away and find food for ourselves. We have much left to catch up on."