Blades of Wolfsbane - episode twenty-one
A story in the Ravenglass Universe.
Seated between his father and uncle in the mead hall, Ragnar opened his eyes when Ulfred read the final names of the dead.
So many brave men and women returned to Creation.
Ragnar the Elder got to his feet when Ulfred sat. “We have paid a great price, but we live. Those who have lost houses will have homes in these walls until we can rebuild.” He gestured for Ragnar to stand. “My son cut his teeth as a warrior.” He pulled Ragnar close to him and placed a hand around his shoulder. “My son and your future chieftain made his first kill.”
Cheers erupted through the hall.
Ragnar’s father waved them silent. “And his second…and his third.”
The cheers rose again and Ragnar could not help smiling.
“He killed three men, three warriors set on taking Maja. He protected his sister. He protected his home. And he protected us all.” He faced Olaf. “Do you have them?”
“Yes, brother.” Olaf stood before Ragnar and slipped three silver bands, no thicker than twine, up onto Ragnar’s left forearm. “These bands represent your kills. They represent your prowess as a warrior.” He clapped a hand down on Ragnar’s shoulder, his own kill bands jangling. “I always knew you had it in you, boy.” He leaned forward, his voice dropping to a whisper. “Just don’t let it go to your head.” He smiled and stepped back.
“Thank you, uncle.”
Ragnar returned to his seat as his father handed out more bands to the other warriors.
Ragnar smiled to himself—finally, his father was proud.
THE END
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