~Marcus with the group in the Great Hall ~<br/><br/>Movement caught Marcus’s eye and he turned to the side, seeing Tool peel away from Mila and walk towards Angus.  His steps were light and carefree; everything about the man was relaxed and happy and it brought a smile to Marcus’s lips.  Here was one who knew how to enjoy himself and it was clear that his energy could easily rub off on others – one look at the lovely Mila made that very, very clear.<br/><br/>Reaching Angus, Tool retrieved the bottle of champagne and returned to the group, exchanging a few words with his dancing partner before addressing all of them.  His words captured Marcus’s attention and he frowned for a moment before wiping the emotional response from his face.  Rightful lead?  Where had that come from?  Marcus had been a leader his entire adult life but here, tonight, he was just himself.  One of the group, trying to build something unique and different…and wonderful.<br/><br/>Meeting Tool’s gaze, he nodded to acknowledge the man’s request, a gesture that neither accepted nor denied the respect he had extended.  Next he looked at Mila, then moved to each of the others in turn, acknowledging their role in his life with his look.  Done, he considered his words and decided to keep them simple.  His glass raised, he toasted all of them.  “To friends…and family…and what might be” he said.  His sip sealed his toast and passed it to the next person.<br/>