Little Lion Man

by Natalie Rushman

Odin Borson. Heir of Asgard. His story started long before he was King. And will seemingly continue long after, as it yet appears he has much to do. Centuries Pre-Thor, through The Dark World. Rated T because Odin's not exactly a White Knight and I didn't want to have to be too cautious.

22. Chapter 22

Still in the 3-5 years old bracket.

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"Tell me about Ratatosk," Loki settled on his lap.

"Not that again!" Thor moaned.

Odin ignored his elder son. "You are quite fond of him," he said.

Loki put out his tongue at his brother, then turned like it hadn't happened and nodded solemnly at his father. "I like 'im."

From across the room, Frigga smiled at them. It was one of those rare times when they were all together.

"Well, Ratatosk…" Odin began.

Thor grumbled to himself where he lay sprawled on his stomach on the floor. Frigga shushed him.

Ratatosk was a squirrel who was said to live among the branches of Yggdrasil. A mischief-maker and problem solver. Odin thought perhaps his small fosterling might feel some kinship with the creature. He did not discourage it. They were more interesting tales than the ones Thor chose – stories of war and conquest. Bor had spoken of little else. A pity Thor had never known his grandfather.

Odin did not like the flashes of his own father he saw blooming in his young son. But he reminded himself that he had been a fool as a boy, and that the child had time to out-grow it yet.