Re: Odinson Family Values
Ragnar listened to Odin's story, his eyes widening, fighting the instinct to kneel before a son of the Allfather Not your Allfather though.. But as he listened Ragnar put a hand on Thor's shoulder, giving it a light, supportive squeeze
"You...are not your father friend Thor. And whilst the blood of the Emperor is in my veins too..I am a son of Russ, who was a very different man to his father. Russ was...larger than life, a great warrior and jarl..who had little time for authority. Yes he killed...but it was always a foe worth his wrath.."
Ragnar's reply sounded half hearted, Thor's words had struck a cord in him. For a moment he thought about the countless trillions who venerated the Emperor every day across his galaxy, about the obedience that worship demanded and inspired, the methods of control..it...unnerved him.
"What of your brother...is he not on this world with you? Did he not..get away as you did?" He didn't say flee, cowards flee, and he knew Thor was no coward.
"I have no family save my battle brothers, my pack..and I know what it is like to loose one close to you." Ragnar smiled sadly for a moment. "Bran Redmaw was the first...he and I went through training together..heh he was brave, took a swing at our Sargent on the first day..when he fell in battle..I felt as if a part of me had been torn away..it hurt a great deal."
Still Thor's words rang in Ragnar's head, he could not help but think of the Inquisition..of the things they had done 'In the Name of the Emperor.' His gaze turned from Thor to the fire and back again, his thoughts making him feel...uncomfortable.