Evergreen the Trees

by Natalie Rushman

It was a time for gifts. Mahal had given them so much. In remembering the stories, they recalled all of their Maker's gifts, and gifts changed hands. 24 un-connected drabbles/vignettes counting down the days until Christmas. Each day focused on a different character. No pairings. Rated k-plus for my peace of mind.

6. December 6, Oin

"A touch nearer center, Lad," Óin puffed, boosting his end of the garland.

He didn't miss the indulgent look his nephew gave him. But he wasn't about to favor it either.

Without complaint, Gimli fixed the ornament a touch nearer the center.

Óin stepped down the ladder. Hands on hips, he surveyed their work. "Aye," he nodded. "Well done, Lad. That should please yer mother. Have you seen yer father today?"

Gimli signed that he had. His father had been apprising a shipment that had just come in.

Óin smiled at him, and gripped his sturdy shoulder. "What would I do without you, Lad?"

With a quick grin, Gimli signed that he'd be more'n more confounded by the day.

Laughing, Óin allowed that that was probably true.

It was good to have kin, he thought to himself, going in search of his brother. They'd lost much. But they'd gotten much back. And they still had one another.

It was enough.