part 1
Thor was wandering the streets of the small village, traveling through the marketplace with no specific destination in mind, for once.
Thrud had just left, earlier in the day. Her visits always lifted his spirits, no matter the turmoil he was feeling; the unresolved ache. The pain of loss and betrayal hadn't dimmed, though the events themselves had happened quite some time ago. It had been a long time since his talk with Idun in the cabin; and even longer still, since the last time he'd spoken with Sif. Which was fine by him. He did not miss her company, he felt only anger at the thought of it. Though not a day went by where he did not miss Baldr, with an intensity that felt almost crippling. In reality, it had been ages. But to Thor, on certain days, it felt like had happened just yesterday.
When Thrud visited, she often insisted on cooking. Something that always delighted Thor, as he didn't exactly know his way around the kitchen. He would have learned, however; if Thrud showed no interest in it. He couldn't very well have his only daughter come to stay with him and not provide her with sufficient meals. She was incredibly kind and caring; and she read him like a book. There was no moment of their interactions that Thor did not cherish and carry with him in the following weeks and months ahead. Time spent with family made all else fade into the background; as nothing could disturb the joy he felt in their presence. But she had returned to her own home, as she had her own life to lead; and Thor never imposed, though he would have spent as much time with her as she wanted. He never tired of her company.
He always felt a lingering emptiness a few days after the departure of one of his loved ones. It was a strange and silly thing, as he knew he'd see them again. Often very soon. But any type of farewell was difficult for Thor; even if it was only temporary. It was that strange, yet very familiar ache that caused Thor's aimless wandering of the market. He needed a few supplies, food; so it wasn't completely without purpose. Mostly, he just didn't want to return to an empty house quite yet. And even though he walked among complete strangers, it alleviated that loneliness a small amount; and for that he was grateful.
Thor never quite fit in among the locals. Due to his height, and overall size; they tended to give him a wide berth. He looked physically imposing, because really; he was. But right now he was plagued with the same emotions as any mortal would have been familiar with, and as such, he saw himself as being no different from the crowd.
A sentiment he would soon need to revise, however; as just at that moment his attention was caught by the sudden movement of a struggle, up ahead.