Chapter 62

An Uncle's Love

Nerine's POV

We'd lived in Valinor for nearly a hundred years now. Kai was fully grown and I was still with Haldir. But still I missed my home. I'd forgotten the sound of the forges. I'd even forgotten the sound of my uncle's voice.

I knew I was dreaming. I knew because I was back home in Erebor.

"Dwalin? Fili, Kili!?"

I walked up to the gate balcony and looked out. Everything was exactly as I remembered it. I turned back and looked around.

"Hello!?"

I heard something coming from the throne hall. I ran towards it and stopped in the middle of the walkway. The hall was empty. I slowly walked up to the throne. I vaguely remembered playing here while my uncle sat on his throne. I smiled a bit and touched the cold stone.

"You've grown so much."

I recognized the voice and looked around.

"Who's there?"

I heard a chuckle and then I saw someone walking towards me. My eyes slowly widened.

"Uncle?"

He nodded and I ran to him. He laughed as I threw my arms around him.

"Nerine you've grown so beautiful, just like your mother. Now let me look at you."

I stepped back and smiled.

"You look just like your mother. Strong, beautiful and kind. I'm very proud of you, and of your brother."

I looked down sadly.

"What's wrong?"

"Why did you have to die?"

He sighed and we sat down.

"It was my time to leave. I was not immortal like you are. But I am always alive in your heart. Your memories keep me alive. You cannot see me, but I'm always right beside you."

Tears came to my eyes.

"But I still need you uncle Thorin."

He smiled sadly and took my hands.

"It was I who always needed you. You, your brother and your mother…even your father."

I laughed a bit. He smiled at me and pulled me into his arms.

"Can you come back with me?" I asked.

I already knew the answer, but I asked anyway.

"You know that I can't. But I will visit you in your dreams. As I said, I will always be there. You must be strong. You're an Oakenshield."

I nodded and then sat back.

"I love you, Nerine. I always will. Never forget that. Tell you mother and brother I love them and will always be with them. Can you do that for me?"

I nodded.

"Of course. I love you uncle Thorin. I love you!"

I hugged him one more time before he faded away.

Kasumi's POV

I stood outside and looked at the stars.

"I never truly thank you brother. For this wonderful life I have. You gave me a home, a family. And as the years went on, you encouraged me and gave me hope. If not for you… I don't know where I'd be. You are and always be one of the best things that ever happened to me. Arigato my brother, I love you. Always."

A star went flying across the sky and I smiled. I knew it was Thorin. My life was full of love and happiness. And it all started with him.

Well we have come to the end. This is has been a three year work of a journey. I hope you all enjoyed.